A Jewel for the Keeping

By PAULETTE M. WITHINGTON

The legend had lived for more
than a century, yet, in spite of eye witnesses who had seen her ghost, no one
wanted to believe the validity of The Blue Lady. Why was she haunting Brindle
Point? What was she trying to say?

After one dockside farewell too
many, Josiah Abbotts need for hearth and home suddenly outweigh his taste for
salt air and billowing sails. When he is offered the commission of lighthouse
keeper at a Virginia lighthouse
station; he jumps at the chance and hangs up his captains hat for good. His
family is more than willing to follow him to the new lighthouse, but will the
ghost of Brindle Point welcome them?

Can obstacles like: unannounced
inspections, coastal storms and ghostly apparitions surmount their faith, or,
will they ingratiate the Abbotts into a deeper love for the life?

As the passing crew of a line
packet ship becomes distracted by a murder on board, they face disaster.
Josiahs daughter must put her faith into actions when one of the injured crew
members falls in love with her.

When the mending crew is brought
before a board of inquiry, previous encounters with this ghost can no longer be
kept secret. Only, after the Abbotts decipher
messages revealed by the ghost, can they discover truth, the true meaning of
love and a true jewel for the keeping.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 23, 2004
• ISBN: 9781414005409

PAULETTE M. WITHINGTON

Paulette M. Withington, a dynamic new writer of historical romance, has created an intriguing novel that magically blends action, and romance with the chilling discoveries of legendary apparitions, newly found treasure and murder. This dazzling tale transports us from Cape Island, New Jersey in her pre-Civil War days; to the lower Chesapeake Bay several decades later, and revolves around the courageous passions of Josiah Abbott and his family as they undertake the life-changing commission of becoming lightkeepers at the Brindle Point, Virginia, lighthouse. This compelling story is laced with wit, old-fashioned values, faith and biblical wisdom. It is also Withington at her best.            Paulette was born, and raised in northern Kentucky where her love for writing began. In 1996, she graduated with honors from NRI School of Writing in Washington, DC. She relocated to South Carolina in 1997, and now resides with her husband Jay in historic Charleston; where the romantic grace of the South inspires and enriches her work.

Book preview

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A Jewel

For

The Keeping

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By: Paulette M. Withington

This book is a work of fiction. Places, events, and situations in this story are purely fictional. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

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© 2004 by Paulette M. Withington. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the author.

ISBN: 1-4140-0540-7 (e-book)

ISBN: 1-4140-0539-3 (Paperback)

ISBN: 1-4140-0538-5 (Dust Jacket)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2003098483

Cover photo:

Marshall L. Smith

‘Solid Rock Photo’

110 Center Street Moncks

Corner, SC 29361

(843) - 761-4242

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Bibliography of Research

For

My precious daughters

Lisa and Michelle

With all my love

In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:6

Special Note from the Author

This book; the setting, the characters, and the places within it, are all fictitious. Similarities to persons, places, entities, ghost legends, light stations, lighthouses, lightships or sailing vessels, at present day or at any time in the past are of literary coincidence.

Various landmarks mentioned in this book-as having existed in the Cape Island area in 1840-did not actually exist until later. According to the Cape May Historical Genealogical Magazine, The Cape May County Ocean Wave newspaper wasn’t in existence until 1854. And although the Spectatorium Theater was in existence in the 1800’s, my sources of research found no specific dates to verify its existence in the year 1840. In spite of these deviations, I took the liberty of adding the above mentioned New Jersey landmarks in my fictional setting, solely for plot enhancement. It is my hope that the residents of Cape May, (the Cape May Historical and Genealogical Societies) and all historians, and persons well versed on this area will look upon this inclusion as an honorable mention and nothing to the contrary.

The same applies to my inclusion of Millersburg Military Institute, which wasn’t founded in Kentucky until 1893.

I also took liberties with general descriptions of the coastline along the lower Chesapeake Bay. I included massive rock faces when these generally aren’t found in that area. I have but one excuse-this after all, is fiction.

A Note of Thanks

To Christine Fudge, Director

The Citadel Writing and Learning Center:

It is with admiration, and unending respect that I list you among the special people who helped with this book. Your finishing touches as my editor and proofreader polished the apple. Thanks!

To Glenda K. Tate:

Thanks for your crafty enthusiastic creations, which kept my inspiration peaked while I was writing this book. Your companionship in our travels for lighthouse research was great. You’re so much fun.

To Michelle R. Groves:

Your incisiveness last year, led me to my publisher; 1st. Books Library–what a life changing suggestion. And thanks for your intuitive help with the final stages of this book as well.

To Rhonda Schmidt:

A former Cape May, N. J. resident. Your enthusiastic love of Cape May was a true inspiration. Thanks!

My appreciation is extended to the following individuals who helped with factual Information:

Peter Dawley: Pres., Westminster Cracker Company, Rutland, VT. Jim Campbell: Historian, Greater Cape May Historical Society, Cape May, NJ.

Rachel Rodgers: Cape May County Historical & Genealogical Society, Cape May, NJ.

Jack Wright: Journalist for Congress Hall, Cape May, NJ. Captain Sandy Vernon: Natural Historian and Storyteller, Pawley’s Island, SC.

Recognition

It is with great respect that I recognize the former lighthouse keepers who were commissioned to oversee light stations along the Great Lakes and the coastlines of the United States. Their diaries and journals describe a lifestyle unified in helping any ship or mariner within nautical range of their lights. The isolation, sacrifice, and dedication of these keepers was exemplary and heroic then; and inspiring now. Researching their lives inspired this novel, therefore, I must say: thank-you guardians of the night.

-The Author

Chapter One

The spring of 1840

Cape Island, New Jersey

(The present spot of Cape May)

The morning sun was well on its rise as Captain Josiah Abbott took one last walk around his two-story Gothic Revival on Seashore Road. This spacious home that overlooked the serenity of Cape Island’s salt marsh was more than a grand edifice. It had been built expressly for Amelia, his genteel and beautiful bride to be, and it was to her honor and happiness that he had poured his efforts fifteen years before.

Even before the house was completed it had become known as Captain Abbott’s Folly, just as he had expected. Born on the Island and having lived there his entire life, his efforts to build such a grand house were judged by the locals as both premature and foolish. For those who knew Josiah knew him as a common man. A simple man, who by all rights, should not aspire to things out of his class. He was not a panty-waist dandy or a man well versed in the social graces, so building such a grand home for some Bostonian bride-to-be was nothing less than foolish. She wasn’t a local. How then, would she fit in?

Josiah knew he was perceived as being a bit odd simply because those who judged him had not taken the proper initiative to truly know him. But he had been too consumed with plans and dreams to find their banter offensive. He knew those who derided him were ignorant to the facts. He hadn’t introduced them to Miss Amelia Katherine Westminster. For if he had, and if they knew her, they would surely understand.

As the sun penetrated the overhead branches of a maple tree, Josiah smiled as he remembered all of it. Even now, the very sound of the phrase; Abbott’s Folly brought him pleasure instead of rancor. For if he had to sum it up-to condense fifteen years into a single thought-he could stand eye to eye with any man (and raise his hand to God as his witness), that he had been happy here, happy and proud as any sea captain who could afford to bring his dreams to fruition.

Amelia had seen to that. In her wifely way she had managed to mellow and polish him over the years. For when his ship was berthed safely at port and his feet were safely planted on God’s good earth, things always changed.

When alone with Amelia, he felt like a different man. There was no need for strong language and crude innuendos. She knew how to bring out the best in him, in ways that simply made his head spin: proper ways, Christian ways, ways that made him voluntarily gravitate toward a higher level of living than he had ever known. Pleasing her was the single-most important task in his world. And in so doing, his brashness and crude coldness eventually subsided to mellow and polish him into a respected citizen of Cape Island’s Godfearing community.

As Josiah scanned his surroundings, he caught the lilt of Amelia’s voice from inside the house. She was supervising the last stage of breakfast and now as always, he loved that voice. It was never cold or shrill and never spiteful or domineering, but filled instead with enough delicacy and warmth to melt a January icicle. And in spite of her delicate ways, she had a sense of strength. In the midst of a crisis, or if properly riled, she could face the most troublesome problems without batting an eye.

As Josiah returned to his exterior tour of Abbott’s Folly, he perused the house and grounds and observed everything with the knowledge that this would be his last time to see it. A little part of him suddenly ached as he thought of how he’d miss Cape Island.

It had taken fifteen years to plan and plant this property to its present glory, and his multi-gabled brick house with its steep roofs, fish-scaled shingles, leaded glass windows, and gingerbread trim would be the hardest of all to leave.

He would certainly miss his friends and the people of the township whom he had grown to love. As he scrutinized the windows and the brick facade, he let his eyes travel to the gable end of the house and the pointed wooden pendant that hung at the peak of the barge boards. Suddenly he realized that he would also miss the little things, like filling his pipe at the corona marble mantle, which he had personally sailed back from Britain, under his own canvas. He’d miss his lofty coffered ceilings and his glass chandelier in the parlor, his hand crafted iron gates and fence that enclosed the property, and the status that was derived from his ownership of it all. He’d miss Reverend Snyder and his newly built Presbyterian Church just three miles away in Cold Spring Village. And a temporary pang of melancholy flared as he realized that he would be leaving quite an investment behind in that two-story meetinghouse sanctuary.

Reverend Snyder was a true friend as well as a Godly pastor. Josiah would miss his smiling, bearded face and his inspirational sermons.

He’d likewise miss the neighbors and friends who happily attended the garden parties that Amelia had hosted. Then there were the gala nights they all had spent at the Spectatorium theatre, in the town called Cape May Court House.

What laughter they had shared.

He’d miss discussing the news he had read from The Cape May County Ocean Wave. He’d miss the harbor with the familiar weathered crews he had known for decades and the many salty sailors who respected his reputation as a seasoned sea captain.

Yes, he would miss it.

But, as he cogitated the bigger picture, he knew full well this move shouldn’t be construed as the end of anything. It would constitute the commencement of a new life with his family, and for the first time in twenty years that place would be on dry land.

The familiar cheeping sound of baby birds came from a nearby oak tree. And he pressed his lips together in a gentle smile. Even the family of Baltimore Orioles that returned each spring to rebuild their odd looking hanging nest could not accompany him to his new life in Virginia.

There would be other birds, and other churches, and other friends to fill his new life, but leaving was none-the-less difficult.

His reverie was abruptly ended with the sound of approaching voices. The familiar smile of his doctor preceded a handshake over the iron fence that separated them.

Good day, Captain Abbott.

He tipped his hat. Good day to you, Doctor and Mrs. Gilliard

We wanted to express our sorrow at your departure and offer our best wishes for a fortuitous journey.

Thank-you kindly. Amelia and I will miss you, Doc. You brought all three of my children into this world, and without your care we would surely have lost Carston two years ago. I have no idea what medical expertise I will meet with in Virginia, but I’m sure I’ll find no finer physician than you.

Thank-you. I ascribe your opinion as important, Josiah. Your family records will remain in my safe keeping, until you request that they be moved. I thought you might want to wait... to get settled before I send them.

Josiah laughed. "I believe you’re hoping that I’ll change my mind and give up this crazy notion to leave Cape Island."

I won’t deny it. He looked beyond Josiah’s shoulder. That house will never seem the same without you in it. And my practice will always feel the void the Abbotts leave.

Josiah smiled. That’s very likely, considering Carston was a frequent patient. I wonder about that boy sometimes.

Ah..., Mrs. Gilliard mused. Boys will be boys.

He is adventurous to say the least, Josiah agreed.

We’ll also miss your family at church, Mrs. Gilliard said. Your generous donations will not be forgotten. We will surely note your absence at the cotillion next month, as well. I do hope Amelia and you find equal social opportunities at your new home.

I must confess, with illaudable shame that I have not sought out such amenities. But with Amelia’s prowess in that area, if these events are not already in place, they soon will be.

I heartedly agree, Mr. Abbott.

Come inside and say goodbye to Amelia and the children,

he said.

Certainly, they said in unison.

As he led the way and observed the fond farewells, he watched his wife bravely blink back the tears. This move would be hard on her and in the face of such a tremendous sacrifice, he cherished her even more.

Looking back, he wondered how Amelia had persevered through the isolation and loneliness that his voyages had inflicted upon her. His days on shore were very brief in comparison to the long voyages. And when the children came, it was worse.

With responsibilities that multiplied with every baby, his dockside departures must have been intolerable for her. Yet in spite of the heartaches and obstacles that would weaken a lesser woman, Amelia’s love had never waned. Even after all these years, she had retained that special quality that made him stop and smile at her. For in her quiet manner and laconic companionship, her place as his bride had always brought him deep pride. Her hair was always pinned perfectly in place, and her fastidious attire came without question. Whether in her Sunday best or her gardening frock, she always tried to look her best.

Josiah’s mind whirled with events: the cheers of victory, and the laughter of camaraderie following political announcements, the hand shakes from his circle of gentlemen friends at church, and his association with the crews and sailors that wove the fabric of his vocation. He knew he could never hope to assimilate the complete peace he had found here.

He thought about all the Christmas trees that had magically transformed the parlor, and the squeals of glee as the children ran downstairs to their stockings, and the special surprise Amelia always placed on each plate on Christmas morning. How could he expect God to help him recreate such a treasury of happiness for his family a second time?

Then he flashed back to arduous days on the high seas, when danger and responsibility for his ship and cargo seemed to rise with every challenge of the voyage. But once ashore, safe again in home port, it all subsided. What welcomes he had received after his long voyages, and what comfort in Amelia’s arms. Her eyes had never lost that sparkle of joy that revealed her love and desire for him. And after the children had greeted him excitedly and fled to the parlor to open his exciting gifts from strange ports of call, the warmth of Amelia’s lips and arms were like an appetizer to the feast that would follow that night.

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Upstairs the long, heavy skirts of the Abbott’s dark-skinned domestic swished in a soft rhythm as she walked to the far end of the planked hallway. Minnie had been here from the beginning, when the house was brand new and Captain and Mrs. Abbot were first married. She had taken the indentured position as Captain Abbott’s cook and housekeeper with certain gratitude, for she was blessed to be free of the insalubrious conditions of her previous master. His way had been devil hard and becoming free of his intemperate tirades, insidious expectations, and unscrupulous demands was more than a blessing to Minnie. She had been lucky. Her large size had not been appealing to her former master, so she was more fortunate than the other women who shared her duties. She cried for them and prayed for them, and when Captain Abbott offered to buy her away, she wept with joy. It surely was nothing short of a miracle from above. And she never forgot it.

She remembered that first day. She would have gladly accepted a dirt floor shanty behind the Captain’s house, but in his planning, he had included two small rooms above the kitchen for her, and from the moment she laid eyes on them, her loyalty was branded to the Captain and Ms. Amelia for life.

She could still remember the excitement and awe she felt as she crossed the threshold of this newly built house for the very first time. What joy she had taken in helping Ms. Amelia that first year, especially before the first baby came. Ms. Amelia had come to rely on her for more than chores and service. And during Mr. Josiah’s first voyage, just three months after their wedding, she and Ms. Amelia had become trusted companions.

Minnie smiled remembering the mask of strength Ms. Amelia always wore before each farewell. She always pretended to be strong in his eyes as he sailed away. Only the good Lord knew what untold dangers and perils lay out there for him, but Minnie knew all too well that Amelia’s wifely pride would never allow her anxious tears, until Captain Abbott was long past the harbor and well out to sea.

Now today, all of that was changing. Her heart ached anew as she gently knocked on the door and entered the bedroom of the oldest Abbott child. Today she would say goodbye to the Abbott’s. She’d lose her home and have to be sold to another family, and with mounting fears threatening her faith, she clinched her fists hard, refusing to think about it until she had to.

Shoot. I’ve always been strong. My big ole’ body made that plain long ago. I’m strong with character too. And in the face of all this I won’t be defeated. Somehow, I will make this last day as good as my first one was, and nothin’ will hinder me. Mr. Josiah, Ms. Amelia, and the children must remember me as bein’ strong, right up to the last minute.

Minnie poured warm water into the wash bowl, pulled back the heavy brocade drapes, and silently observed the sleeping beauty before her. She stood there much longer than she should have, but the moment would pass all too quickly and then flee to the recollection spot of her memory. She stood in a mix of agony and serenity as she smiled down at Illana Elizabeth. This would be the last time she would awaken her and the last time to awaken the twins, Constance and Carston. The breakfast, that was warming downstairs, would be the last full meal she’d cook for them. And before the afternoon sun rose to its peak, she’d bid farewell to this family who had housed and cared for her like a member of their own family for fifteen years.

She ducked her head beneath the fringed canopy top of Illana’s bed.

It’s time to wake up, child. Come on now. Wake up.

The familiar grip on Illana’s shoulder stirred her awake. She sat upright and yawned at her dark skinned companion.

Today’s the day, Minnie.

"Yes, child. You been waitin’ a long time for this day."

And what a day this will be! I can hardly wait to board the ship. She looked toward the window wistfully. I do hope we have pleasant weather. My friend, Eloise told me that five days is a long time to be cooped up in a tiny ship’s cabin.

Yes, Ms. Illana. But you shouldn’t let your friends trouble you with such things. You’re in for a true adventure, and I hope the good Lord pours his sunshine on your journey and your whole life from here on.

Illana scrambled to the edge of the bed and hugged her benefactor. Oh, Minnie, I shall miss you so very much.

Minnie blinked hard to block the tears. I know Miss Illana. Now you’d best hurry and get this day started.

I hope Mama left me something pretty to wear today.

It’s hanging in your wardrobe.

What do you think I should wear to Papa’s swearing in ceremony? They’re supposed to have it the day we arrive at the lighthouse.

That will depend on what your Mama has packed in that big trunk. But if I had my pick, I’d choose your new navy blue travelin’ dress. You look mighty pretty in it.

Thank-you. I like that one too. And my new cottage bonnet matches it so perfectly. I hope she didn’t send that one ahead with our other things.

Minnie quickly threw back the bed sheets and rolled them into a ball. I hope so too, child. Now, you’d best hurry and wash up for breakfast. Your mama has been in the kitchen since dawn practicing on her cookin’. She wanted this meal to be special.

Illana rolled her eyes sadly. And did you salvage her efforts?

Minnie laughed. Your mama is tryin’ hard. And you know Miss Illana, the tryin’ is just beginning for all of you. I expect you to help all you can. You might be schooled in the finer things, but the life you’re leavin’ might be a site different than the one you’re goin’ to.

I know. How I wish you were going with us. Mama can’t cook like you do, Minnie.

The smile that escaped was wide as Minnie made quick work of stripping the bed clothes from the mattress. Your mama might not do things like I do, but she sure is tryin’ to learn, and don’t let me hear that you don’t appreciate it. She deserves your respect. And don’t be discouragin’ her either. She’s learned a lot in two months. Shucks. You’re all gonna learn a lot. It’ll be your turn soon enough.

Illana walked to the window. How will we survive? She gazed out the window then turned in enlightenment. ... I know! Maybe you can come for a visit in a few days, and I’ll convince Papa to let you stay. I’ll use my own money, Minnie. I can run to the bank and withdraw what we need for your passage.

She held up puffy palms. No child. This has already been settled. Your family will have to live on a lightkeeper’s pay from now on. Your papa won’t leave me without a place. I’m sure he’s arranged a new position for me with a nice family.

"But, that won’t be the same. Besides, we have plenty of money ... And we sold this house. We can afford to keep you."

That money won’t last forever, and besides I don’t think they allow lightkeepers to have servants. The government don’t look too kindly on boardin’ extras.

Extras? You’re part of our family. I’ll write and tell them you’ve been here since before I was born and that we need you.

Minnie chuckled. I know. But the president of this here country don’t see that as much reason for housin’ and feedin’ me for the resta’ my days. Besides; we can keep each other rite’ here .in our hearts.

Illana picked up her hair brush with a sigh. I didn’t think about how it would feel to leave you. I’ve changed my mind, I don’t want to go.

Minnie shook her head with a scowl. None of that, now. You wash up and dress, and I’ll go wake up the twins. Your favorite breakfast is almost ready so don’t dally.

You’ve always taken such good care of us. I just don’t know what we’ll do without you.

You’ll do just like every other family that doesn’t have a cook and a housekeeper. You’ll learn, Miss Illana. You’ll learn. She pointed a finger. And don’t be crowning yourself with dispersions of failure either. You’re smart and the bravest little eleven-year-old I ever seen. You’re gonna do fine. Now hurry on down before your mama starts gettin’ nervous. I must wake your sister and brother.

Illana removed her nightdress as Minnie closed her bedroom door. She washed at the porcelain washbowl stand, followed the last of Minnie’s instructions, and then looked into the tall mahogany wardrobe.

The stark reality of the day’s events hit her full force as she viewed the stark interior of her wardrobe. Usually a row of crisply starched dresses hung neatly above two pair of high topped leather shoes. Now, one single dress hung above a single pair of shoes. It looked strange and somehow sad not seeing her things there. The rest of her clothing had been packed away and loaded with most of the furniture in preparation for their five day ship’s voyage. It was being carried in the cargo bay of some wonderful ship that would transport it safely to their new home.

Now the only dress in sight hung all by itself in her empty wardrobe closet. Beneath it, her shoes shined from fresh boot black and her stockings and undergarments all smelled of lavender soap and fresh air. Minnie had even pressed her hair ribbons and polished her silver brush and comb set.

She dressed quickly remembering the excitement ahead. Today her family would leave New Jersey, and even though the thoughts of her new life were exciting, they were also scary. Scary and sad because this would mark the end to her life here. It was all so final and overwhelming, yet she must do as her mother had admonished and never let her papa see her anxieties. He must never learn how sad she was to leave her friends behind. And he must never know how uncertain she was of this move. It was such a long way from Cape Island to where they were moving. The chances were slim to none that she would ever see her New Jersey friends again. But she had to be brave. She reminded herself of the most important issue and that was the family happiness that would eventually come from this move.

Her papa had resigned his position on the ship he had captained for many years, and now he would be home with them all the time.

She raised her chin with fresh hope. That alone was worth every sacrifice and every goodbye.

Ten minutes later, Illana heard her mother’s voice as she descended the wide staircase that flared at the base. She quickened her steps as a delicious aromas wafted in the air.

Her mother was seated at her usual place at the table in the breakfast room, delighted at her small contribution to the finished meal.

Good morning, Mama and Papa.

Good morning, her father responded, spreading his table napkin across his knee. Are the twins about ready?

Minnie’s taking care of it.

Amelia sighed. I dread this day for Carston

Illana frowned. You coddle him too much, Mama. He isn’t a baby anymore. Constance doesn’t act up. Why must he?

Minnie descended the rear servant’s stairway in the kitchen joined by the youngest Abbott female. Her tiny voice was both delicate and endearing. Mama doesn’t coddle him, Sissy, she just knows his temper.

Illana spread her linen napkin across her lap and suspired loudly. Well, he’s nine years old just like you. When is he to learn to control that temper?

Her mother cast a smile across the table to her husband and lifted a brow. Now that your father is home, I’m sure we’ll see far less of Carston’s temper.

Minnie chuckled. You’re right, Ms. Amelia. I think Mr. Josiah’s presence will change a lot of things.

A smile brightened Josiah’s face. All in good time, my dears. All in good time.

Minnie waddled around the table with the coffee pot. Speaking of time, Mr. Josiah, what time does your ship leave?

He lifted his gold watch from his vest pocket. We sail with the tide in six hours. He reached across the table and placed his hand over his wife’s. "I realize this will be an emotional day, Amelia, but we can’t dawdle. It will be hard to keep our schedule, but we must be at the pier in five hours."

Her words were as smooth as glass. Josiah you are so organized. You do amaze me with your attention to details. I’m sure you know that I’ll be equally attentive to your schedule. She forced a smile. But I’m sure you must be distinctly aware that this will be a difficult day to keep bills of fare.

He caught her polished tone and offered a cautious rebuttal. I’m equally proud of you, dear. And I know I can depend on your assistance..

A loud thud in the foyer preceded an injured cry. EE-oooouch!

They all jumped to their feet and rushed to the stairs; simultaneously expelling the same word.

Carston!

Lord have mercy, Mr. Carston!

Are you hurt, young man?

A sheepish smile crept over his face as the dejected prankster looked up into a circle of frowning faces. He sat rubbing his behind in guilty silence, before rising in defeat. I’m sorry...

Constance scowled at him. Why are you so full of badness? You’re gonna catch it now.

Amelia’s rebuff was irrepressible. What have I told you about that banister rail, young man?

I had to slide down one last time, Mama.

No, you did not. And this is no way to start this day. As if we don’t have enough to worry about, then you foolishly put yourself in harm’s way.

Illana raised an eyebrow at her mother’s vocalized worry. You need to have more respect Carston. Can’t you see you’ve upset Mama?

The boy spoke without looking up. I didn’t think about that. .Sorry Mama.

Josiah quickly evaluated the situation, noting the only injury to his son was his hurt pride. He knew the day would be hard for everyone, especially his children. And among the three, if accidents or delays were incurred, Carston would be the one to account for it. Clearly Amelia was tense and anxious, and starting this day off on the right foot might nip a lot of problems in the bud, if he could get the jump on Carston’s pranks and departure antics. He released the anxiety from his voice and bit his lip with a smirk.

Well, young man it looks like you were lucky. But after nine years ... I’d think you could get it right.

Carston’s eyes widened, hopefully. No scolding? Well, I guess I didn’t get enough practice, Papa.

The elder stood in mock disapproval while trying to retain his composure. Oh, you didn’t? Well, suppose you go back up and try again till you do.

What? Amelia snapped.

He discreetly raised his palms to the astounded onlookers and lowered his voice. I know what I’m doing. Let me handle this. Then he stepped closer to the child. Go ahead, son. Get back up there and do it right this time.

Carston bounded gleefully up the long staircase. Oh, boy! Thanks Papa!

Amelia’s motherly disapproval and concern drew her closer for a better view. Josiah, she whispered. Have you lost your mind?

But, as she stepped toward the foot of the stairs to resend Josiah’s words, he grabbed her arm in calm control. Wait, Amy.

But, he could fall!

No, he won’t. You’ll see. He projected his voice in a fatherly tone toward the top of the stairs. All right, son. Are you ready?

The boy threw his right leg over the shiny mahogany rail and anchored his left foot on the top step. Okay, Papa.

Okay, but wait just one minute. We must do this right. Wait for my signal. He turned to the others and raised his voice flamboyantly. All right, everyone, for the very last time Carston Abbott will slide down the banister of Abbott’s Folly for posterity. Are you ready, son?

I’m ready Papa! he beamed.

But, wait! Not just yet! I really should warn you, son. Before you make this last valiant attempt, just remember that no one is going to catch you when you reach the bottom. You must be prepared to jump at the precise time, so you won’t fall over the newell post. For if you do, you just might break an arm or a leg, and then you wouldn’t get to help me in the lighthouse.

Constance suddenly became concerned. Don’t do it, Carston! Don’t do it!

"Carston froze as he considered the scenario. I’m not very good at this. I’ve always fallen when I reached the bottom of the flat, newell post. After all, I’ve slid down once this morning already. And it would be real embarrassing to fall right at Papa’s feet with Illana smirking. ... But if I don’t do it ... if I back down ... they’ll think I’m a fraidy-cat.

Carston’s hesitation brought a wink from Minnie and Josiah as they gathered below him.

Josiah shot a whisper to Minnie. You got his favorite?

She smiled and raised her chin proudly. Yes sir. Josiah’s encouraging wink gave volume to her words. Your favorite breakfast is getting cold down here, Mr. Carston.

I’m getting ready, he mumbled. He knew he couldn’t make the slide and the jump with his whole family watching, and if he got hurt, he’d be punished for sure. So with reluctance he lifted his right leg off the banister, righted his balance, and descended the staircase slothfully.

Amelia sighed with relief as Josiah continued. Good choice, son. That’s what I would have done.

No you wouldn’t have, Papa. A sea captain isn’t afraid of anything.

That isn’t entirely true, son.

You’re just trying to make me feel better.

No. Everyone is afraid of something, son.

Not you.

Yes, indeed. I learned long ago that in the face of danger, you never temp fate, son. Always stick with the safe way, and you won’t regret it.

Minnie chuckled out a hearty, Amen!

And Amelia shook her head. "Lord have mercy! I hope our new house doesn’t even have a staircase."

Illana rolled her eyes at her brother. Really!

And with that the group turned for the breakfast room.

Chapter Two

An hour later, the morning sun flirted playfully with the crystal waters of the lily pond as Josiah spoke to his minister.

Josiah you and your family have been prominent members of my congregation for years. I’m just as concerned about this move now as I was two months ago when you broke the news to me. I surely hate to see you go. At that time, I admonished you to pray about this move. I trust that you have done so.

Yes Reverend.

Are you positive this is what you should do?

Yes. Amelia needs me at home, and if the truth be known, my last voyage was a near fatal one for me. I vowed if the good Lord got me home safely, I’d plant my feet for good. And when I heard of the plans for Brindle Point, I had a revelation, Reverend Snyder. Being a lightkeeper would keep me close to the sea, yet afford me a steady life with my family to boot. And when I received immediate correspondence from the letter I had sent to Washington, I was speechless. I have been chosen from a list of other hopeful keepers, and I’m still awed and humbled at this opportunity.

I understand Josiah, but you’ll be giving up so much here. My word-such an immediate transition. Are you up to this?

With God’s help I will be.

I simply can’t overlook the obvious, Josiah. You know as well as I that ‘the-high-seas-homesickness’ most sailors suffer is for dry land, but to a landlocked sea captain, it’s the other way around. Are you sure you can overcome that?

I’ve thought of little else for weeks. I’m well aware that the sea has pulled be back before. But I’m older now, and things are different. Yes. I’m positive this is what I need to do.

I understand you won’t be taking Minnie.

"No. That will be difficult. She’s like family, you know. But I must tell you, I have made arrangements with our Congress Hall hotel for her boarding and livelihood. She’ll be kept on there permanently as long as she chooses to stay."

Shock washed the reverend’s face. But her papers... Are you saying that...

Yes Reverend. I’m setting her free. But I want to surprise her just before we go.

"You may face opposition in the community for such a drastic measure, but the Lord will surely bless you generously for the deed, Josiah. I know Minnie will be well cared for at Congress Hall."

It’s a fine establishment. And I’ve been assured she will not be abused there.

You’re a good man, Josiah; and I’m proud to have known you. With your approval, I will check on her periodically.

Thank-you Reverend, I’d like that. Actually I’m proud to be the first to take such a stand. Since we’re below the Mason-Dixon Line, the talk of such things has become more prominent lately.

I know. But there is still much dissent on the subject among many of our business men.

"We must pray for good leadership in Washington. That is the

key."

Amen to that. So, how are the ladies doing?

Very well. Amelia, Illana, and little Constance have worked hard learning new skills in the garden and the kitchen. They’re determined to make this a success for all of us.

Then you have their unflagging support in this?

Wholeheartedly.

I’m glad to hear it. I’m sure this move will create as good a life as you devise, and I’ll be praying for your success in peace-filled endeavors.

Thank-you Reverend Snyder. You know I’m not much of a speaker. So considering my pitiful prayers, you’ve been my mouth to God for years. Having your blessing means a lot to us. Were she not saying goodbye to her ladies’ group right now, Amelia would echo my words. Her friends just dropped by a few minutes ago. Why don’t you just pop your head in for a second to say farewell?

I will, thank-you.

I do hope they don’t upset her before we leave.

Nor do I, but if so, that’s understandable. This will be a difficult day for all of you, especially the women. Frailty thy name is woman ... don’t forget that Josiah.

I won’t, Reverend.

I’ll give Amelia and the children my best. Travel in God’s peace, Josiah. May the benevolence of God’s watch care and love rest upon you and your family from now till evermore.

Thank-you Reverend. I’ll bind that blessing to my heart.

Two men in work clothes rounded the corner of the house as the minister walked away. The arrangements for your horse and carriage have been made, Mr. Abbott. This is Neville Price. He’s a darn good driver, he’s in good health, and he can be trusted too, Mr. Abbott.

Josiah extended his right hand to the stranger. Do you know my plans?

Yes, sir. Jimmy here explained your schedule. I’m to pick up your carriage at the dock when you board your ship. Then drive your horse and carriage overland to Virginia along with Jimmy who will transport your hand plow and heavier tools in his wagon. We will report to a Mr. Collin Sullivan at Cantwell Cove, and he will take us directly to the light station at Brindle Point.

"That’s right. Make sure my horse is well