Should Ever the Twain

By Sarah David

'Oh, East is East and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.'
Rudyard Kipling.

Four women from four generations who all have one thing in common when they meet the love of their life turmoil and chaos ensues:-

Jessica - Prepared to sacrifice everything she has ever held dear.
Eleanor - Embarks upon a life she never imagined possible.
Mary - An unhappy girl finding solace in fantasy which leads to her downfall.
Chloe - Academic and practical but not immune from turning her back on security.

Spanning a century, including two world wars, love takes them each on a journey touched with joy, sorrow, hope and tragedy.
What will the future hold for young Mia in the fifth generation?

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse UK
• Release date: Jul 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781496981530

Sarah David

Sarah David began by writing humourous poems for birthdays, and other occasions, of her work colleagues. Persuaded to enter a competition, she had two poems accepted and published in an anthology. This encouraged her to write a novel from her home in West Sussex.

Book preview

Chapter One

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‘J essie! Jessie! Where are you?’ At the sound of her sister’s voice Jessica Pendell closed her book with a sigh. She had just reached a particularly interesting part and had hoped not to be disturbed.

‘I’m here, Daisy, by the pond.’ It had been so tranquil to relax against the trunk of an oak tree in the shade, listening to the birds and reading a gentle romantic novel with Janey, her beloved spaniel, at her feet. Now she flicked away some fallen wild rose petals from her dusky pink dress and turned her gaze towards the path. A hurried rustle in the leaves, which caused Janey to sit up and twitch her nose, a sudden flash of powder blue and seventeen-year-old Daisy appeared, red-faced and breathless with her golden curls falling from their pins and bouncing around her shoulders.

‘Good heavens, girl. Just look at the state of you! Is there a fire?’

‘No, of course not.’ Daisy sat down on the grass and paused to get her breath back. ‘It’s not easy to run in these boots.’ She began an attempt to secure her hair but it was thick and unyielding. ‘Oh, help me with this will you?’

‘Come here’ sighed Jessie. ‘When will you begin to act like a lady? Anyway, what’s the cause of all the excitement?’

‘Uncle Ralph has found some tenants. A Yorkshire man who’s just returned from living in Italy and his family.’

‘Oh’. Jessie did not sound impressed. Daisy looked at her sharply.

‘It’s good news. You know we need the money.’

‘Yes, I know,’ replied Jessie, ‘I just hate the thought of sharing my home with strangers. How big is this family?’

‘Well, as far as I know, there’s a married couple with a young daughter and the husband’s younger brother. They’ve been living in Florence for the past few years. I think he works for the government and now he’s been offered a post in Worcester. Their name’s Harting.’

‘Harting by name and no doubt hearty by nature. You’ve heard of how loud Yorkshire people can be. We probably won’t be able to hear ourselves think for them shouting at each other all day.’

Daisy laughed and gave her sister a playful push.

‘Don’t be such a snob, Jess, they may be quite civilised. I know what you mean though. It’s a shame things have come to this but it’s the only way we can keep our heads above water. Even when you marry Geoffrey there won’t be enough money and I don’t relish the Workhouse. Uncle wants to discuss it with us before supper so we’d better be getting back.’

‘Why has a Yorkshire man come to live in Coppersham? Wouldn’t he be happier in Yorkshire?’

‘How should I know? Why was he living in Italy? Perhaps he doesn’t like smoke.’

The two sisters walked down the hill to the house in silence, each lost in their own thoughts, Janey bounding between them. The late afternoon sun over the majestic Malvern Hills highlighted the thatched roof of Pendell’s Farm, purchased by their great-great-grandfather. In those days the farm had been prosperous but now the beautiful and imposing house was badly in need of repair and recent poor harvests and seen very little income. Their uncle, Ralph Pendell had inherited the farm from his father, being the eldest son by a number of years, and he and his younger brother, Ernest, ran it together until Ernest had been killed in a riding accident many years before. Since then Ralph had managed the estate single handed. Having been forced to lay off workers and sell the stock he had now reached the decision that the only way to prevent financial disaster was to rent out most of the rooms. Jessie, being the eldest, was to act as Housekeeper until her marriage to Geoffrey Waite, the son of a local businessman, making a name for himself as a lawyer and at present employed by a firm in London. Jessie was in no hurry to marry. She thought she liked Geoffrey well enough, although she wished he did not try to control her so much, and there was something missing which she could not explain.

Aunt Connie was bustling about the kitchen as they entered the back door. An excellent cook, having been trained in service before catching Ralph Pendell’s eye more than twenty years earlier. He had delivered milk every day to the large country house where she worked, along with cheese, eggs, vegetables and fruit and was always invited into the kitchen for a cup of tea before continuing his deliveries. He was soon attracted to the plump, cheerful, rosy-cheeked cook and made a point of conversing with her whenever possible. He knew that her name was Mrs. Day but there did not seem to be a Mr. Day in the vicinity. He admired the way she treated her staff, firm but kindly.

‘Now Kitty, how many times have I told you to add water drop by drop into pastry and mix with a knife? Just look at that soggy mess. Now clean out your bowl and try again, there’s a good girl.’

‘Fanny you must wash your hands more often. We don’t want the family getting food poison now do we?’ The more he saw of her, the more determined he was to ascertain if she was a widow. He pictured her in the kitchen at Pendell Farm, bringing as much warmth to the place as the stove. When she laughed, which was often, her whole body would wobble like an appetising jelly. He knew he wanted to have and hold her for the rest of his life. Who would need a hot brick in the bed on a cold winter’s night with a soft, warm body like that to curl up to. She, too, looked forward to his visits. Her heart would bounce on hearing his horse and cart arrive outside the kitchen door. She began to make a habit of going out to meet him, always armed with a couple of carrots on the pretext of giving a treat to old Jasper. His cheerful countenance with it’s ruddy complexion brought on by years of working outside, framed by mutton-chop whiskers, made her want to care for him.

‘Would you like a slice of my fruit cake with your tea Mr. Pendell?’

‘Would I indeed? There’s no one who can hold a candle to your cake baking.’

‘Oh my dear Lord, Mr. Pendell. You’re a real flatterer and no mistake.’

‘Why don’t you come and work for us? Not that we could afford to pay you, mind, but we’d just love your company.’

‘Mr. Pendell! The things you say!’ Eventually he managed to persuade her to call him ‘Ralph’ and soon discovered that there was no man in her life, nor ever had been. ‘Mrs.’ was simply a courtesy decided upon by her employer because it sounded ‘proper’. After a few months he asked if she would accompany him to a music hall in Worcester on her day off. At first she was very hesitant but his persistence broke through the barriers. She did not think she had ever enjoyed an evening as much. She gasped at the magician, became misty-eyed over the singer and laughed at the comic. When the audience was invited to join in a medley of songs they both sang with gusto. After that she began to spend every day off with him and found herself looking forward to it. He would collect her after his deliveries and take her to Pendell Farm for the day, where she would chatter and give culinary tips to the friendly Lucy Pendell, Ralph’s sister-in-law, and play with little Jessie who was just beginning to take her first steps.

‘She loves you Connie. I’m sure she looks forward to your visits. I could get quite jealous.’

‘Oh no. She’s the same with everyone. She’s such a lovely little thing but her Mummy’s more important than me.’ It was Lucy who looked forward to Connie’s jolly presence each week. It was so wonderful to have some female company for a change. Someone she could giggle and gossip with, have discussions on clothes and recipes and whether the Prince of Wales was the shameless womaniser he was reputed to be.

Lucy loved to tease Connie and make her blush and she hoped devoutly that the couple would marry.

‘Ralph sings your praises all the time, Connie. Not just about your cooking either.’

‘Oh my dear Lord. What a man he is to be sure!’

‘They’re so right for each other, Ernest,’ Lucy insisted to her husband,’ You can tell they think the world of each other and I’d be so happy if she lived here with us.’

‘Why doesn’t he pop the question then?’

‘Of course I want to marry her but how do I know she’d accept me? I’d feel a right fool if she said ‘No’, Ralph lamented when Lucy broached the subject with him.

‘I think you’d better do a bit of match-making, my dear,’ Ernest chuckled. So it was left to Lucy to act as detective and try to coax Connie’s feelings out of her. It was not an easy task as Connie was a very private person who kept her feelings to herself but eventually Lucy won her confidence enough for her to admit that she was happier in Ralph’s company than anyone else’s. Armed with this knowledge, a stiff brandy and a firm shove into the kitchen by Lucy, Ralph finally proposed and a delighted Connie accepted him on the spot. It was a quiet but happy wedding and, although they were very sorry to loose her, her employers lent her their hackney carriage to travel to and from the church.

The two couples lived happily together and everything ran smoothly until Lucy became pregnant again.

‘Connie, if anything should happen to me you will look after Jessie and Ernest for me, won’t you.’

‘Oh my dear Lord, what a thing to say! A young healthy girl like you? You could have a dozen babies.’ But Lucy’s fears proved to be prophetic and she did not survive Daisy’s birth. Connie, heartbroken at the loss of the woman whom she had regarded as her sister and best friend, found herself caring for a tiny baby and a confused little girl who could not understand where her mother had gone or why people were so sad all the time. Ernest, at first, shut himself away from everyone and could not bear to see his new daughter and it was left to Connie to make him realise that both his little girls needed him, especially Jessie at the present time for reassurance that he wasn’t going to disappear as well. Eventually he learned to smile again and began to take an interest in Daisy. She looked so much like her poor mother that it was almost Lucy come back again. Connie took the children under her ample wing and they adored her. Some years later tragedy struck again. Ernest had always been a keen horseman and loved nothing better than a brisk gallop through the fields and hills. One morning he did not return. A concerned Ralph set out to look for him and found him laid prone on the grass. His horse was laid, threshing and whinnying nearby. The unfortunate animal had caught it’s hoof in a rabbit hole and fallen, breaking it’s leg and Ernest’s back. Ralph immediately ended the animal’s suffering and hurried to acquire assistance for his brother, but it was to no avail. Ernest died a few hours later without regaining consciousness. Ralph continued to work his hardest to keep their heads above water to it was hopoeless and, as the girls reached womanhood, the farm made little income. Thus they were now faced with an alternative way to provide one.

Connie looked up from her labours and beamed at the girls.

‘Well, my dears. It looks as though things are going to get better for us all now. Your uncle introduced me to the Hartings this morning when we went into Worcester. They’re in very small lodgings at present and badly need more room. A very nice couple, very nice indeed and the sweetest little girl. Arrived late in life evidently. Get down, Janey, I’ll get your dinner in a moment. Really Jessie, you should try to stop her jumping up all the time. My skirt will be in shreds! Now sit down and I’ll make us a nice cup of tea. Oh my dear Lord, it’s going to seem so strange cooking for a large family again. I’m quite out of practise.’

‘You didn’t meet the younger brother then, Aunty?’ ventured Daisy, seating herself at the table.

‘No, he’d gone for a walk over the hills. A very active young man by all accounts. Your uncle will be back shortly and he can tell you everything. Now then, Lady Janey, let me pour out this tea and I’ll see what I can find for you.’ Connie busied herself, chattering away either to the girls, the dog or herself. She paused and gazed fondly at her two nieces. They were the daughters she had been unable to have, and she looked on them as her own. Both had the same thick honey-gold hair and deep blue eyes, but Daisy’s face was rounder than her sister’s and Jessie had a quieter, almost regal, air about her.

The kitchen door opened and Ralph Pendell entered the room.

‘Ah, good. Glad you’re both here,’ he addressed the sisters, ‘Anymore tea in that pot, Connie, my sweet?’ He seated himself at the table while his wife poured out another cup. ‘Now then, girls, I expect you know about the Hartings by now so I’ll let you know all the details. Mr. Albert Harting is a gentleman in his forties who has been employed in Florence for the past six years. However, his wife wanted their daughter to be educated in England and refused to send her back here alone, so he has resigned his post and agreed to reside in Worcestershire, for now at least. Mrs. Harting hails from these parts and did not want to return to Bradford. I don’t think she enjoys very good health and he doesn’t want her to be upset. Apparently she wasn’t at all enamoured with Bradford, which is his home town. He’s not a man without means but would prefer to rent at present rather than buy. Accompanying them is his brother, William. William is about over twenty years younger than Albert. Not that much older than you, Jessie. He contacted tuberculosis three years ago and went to live with them in Italy to recuperate and avoid the Yorkshire winters. I understand that he will only be here on a temporary basis and will be returning to Yorkshire. At present he’s doing his best to build up his strength. They will be moving in here as from next Monday. Your Aunt will, of course, be in charge of the cooking. You, Jessie, will look after the household accounts and deal with any requests our guests may have.

‘What does that make me? The tweenie or the scullery maid?’ Daisy’s eyes were large and fearful. Ralph laughed and put his arm around her.

‘You, my lovely, will have to perform a few light duties, but we shall employ a girl to help Doris clean the house and help in the kitchen. Your main task will be to make our visitors feel at home. I’m sure you’ll be excellent at that.’’

Daisy beamed at him while Jessie turned away with a secret smile. Any flattery and Daisy was eating from someone’s hand.

The next few days were very full making sure everywhere was clean and tidy. Connie took stock of her larder, numbering the hams and cheeses and enrolled the sisters in kneading dough for new loaves. Young Doris, who lived in the village and worked as a general maid for the family, had a cousin looking for an appointment and, at Doris’ recommendation, was employed to help. Just after 10 o’clock on Monday morning they heard the sound of a car arriving. Daisy jumped about with excitement but Jessie was filled with foreboding. She patted her hair, smoothed her grey skirt and followed with Daisy as Ralph led the new family into the drawing room. Albert Harting was short and stocky with dark hair going white at the sides. It gave him a distinguished air. His wife, Maisie, was very thin with a sallow complexion. Her dark navy suit did nothing to flatter her. Jessie did not think she looked at all well. Six-year-old Margery had long brown curls with large brown eyes to match. Ralph walked over to them and put his arms around their shoulders.

‘Allow me to present my nieces,’ he boomed genially, ‘This is Jessica and this is Daisy. Girls let me introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Harting.’

Hands were shaken and pleasantries exchanged. Daisy piped up that she hoped they’d all be very happy at the farm and blushed to the roots of her hair when Albert Harting told her she was the most charming girl he’d met since arriving in England. Maisie Harting pushed Margery, forward and ordered her to say hello, which she did staring at her feet. Daisy, who felt invigorated by Albert’s praise, sought to ingratiate herself further by crouching in front of Margery and telling her what beautiful hair she had.

‘You look just like my favourite doll. She’s in my bedroom. Her name’s Emily. Would you like to see her?’ Margery smiled shyly and nodded. Daisy then turned her gaze curiously towards the fourth member of the Harting family, as did Jessie.

‘Ah yes. This is my young brother, William. He won’t be here long. Going back to Bradford soon, aren’t you Will?’

‘Yes. I haven’t seen the rest of the family for some time now. Got some catching up to do.’ Neither of the girls could tear their eyes away from the young man. His hair was jet black, over deep brown eyes, which twinkled as he spoke. He was still thin and gaunt, the result of his illness, but his smile was warm and friendly. Like his brother, he had a slight Yorkshire accent. He took Jessie’s hand in a warm, firm grip and she felt shockwaves course through her body. She could feel a stirring within her the like of which Geoffrey had never caused. His brown eyes held her blue ones and she felt as if time stood still, until a shadow fell between them. Daisy was pushing in front of her to be introduced.

‘Jessie will be getting married in the near future’, Ralph informed them. ‘Her young gentleman is working in London at present but we expect him back him back home before long. Something ‘in the city’ you know.’

Was it her imagination or did Jessie see Will’s face cloud over at this information. The door slid open and Janey, not to be left out, trotted in and surveyed the new arrivals. Tail wagging furiously she bounded up to little Margery.

‘Janey. No jumping,’ warned Jessie but Janey was far too interested to take any notice. Margery sat on the floor with a cry of,

‘Oh isn’t she lovely!’ and Janey proceeded to lick her face and hands with a vengeance while Margery stroked and patted.

‘You’ve made a real friend there,’ laughed Albert, ‘She’s not used to dogs. They’re a real novelty.’

Curious about the other figures in the room Janey ran from one to another sniffing but only Will knelt down on the floor to fuss her.

‘King Charles Cavalier isn’t she?’ he asked examining her long, silky ears while Janey gazed up at him with adoring eyes.

‘Yes, that’s right.’

‘Beautiful little dog. How old is she?’

‘I’ve had her for two years.’

‘You’re very well looked after, aren’t you Jenny?’

‘It’s Janey actually, and she’s really taken to you.’

Jessie remembered the first time Janey had met Geoffrey. He made it quite clear he had no time for pet dogs and Janey seemed to sense to keep away from him. She thought of her impending marriage and shuddered inwardly. For how much longer could she make excuses to postpone it?

Chapter Two

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L ife soon settled into a routine with the two families sharing the same roof. Albert had secured a position at the Town Hall, as a result of producing complimentary references from his years in Italy. Maisie spent most of her days with old friends or relations, catching up on five years of gossip over endless cups of tea and showing off her pretty daughter. William wrote letters in his room or took long walks over the Malvern Hills. In the barmy summer days Jessie frequently took Janey for walks, hoping to meet up with him—and often did so. She did not realise that he was also looking out for her. They talked and laughed endlessly, happy to be in each other’s company. Janey absolutely adored Will. Jessie would joke that her dog thought more of him than of her and what a lady-killer it proved Will to be. She had pushed Geoffrey to the very back of her mind. Sometimes Daisy would insist on accompanying her and Jessie resented her presence as it meant she could not look for Will. She noticed how much attention Daisy was paying to him, always making sure she was in the kitchen when he appeared for breakfast, offering to accompany him around the district to show him the local landmarks or suggesting she walked with him along the hills. She and Jessie had had heated words when Jessie warned Daisy not to be so obvious in her feelings towards him, the truth being that she wanted his company for herself.

‘It’s not ladylike. He’ll think you are very forward. It doesn’t look proper.’

‘Rubbish! We’re in the twentieth century now. Queen Victoria’s dead and buried.’

One morning Connie sent both the girls to the market in Coppersham for provisions. There was still a strained atmosphere between them so they were both glad to bump unexpectedly into William, who’d decided to look for some new boots. He was equally pleased to see them, both looking very smart in their white, lacy blouses and grey silk skirts.

‘Good morning. You’re out and about early today’

The girls laughed.

‘Early? This isn’t early for a farmer’s daughter’

‘I do beg your pardon. I’m only used to ladies who don’t emerge until nearer to mid-day.’

‘Really. Are you insinuating that we aren’t ladies?’ Jessie raised her eyebrows and fixed him with a quizzical stare.

‘No, no. Of course not. It’s just that my sisters are very lazy and my sister-in-law isn’t very robust, which I’m sure you’ve noticed. I must apologise if I gave any offence. There was none intended.’

‘Apology accepted.’ Jessie smiled. She was quite enjoying this banter.

‘I take it you’re off for one of your long walks?’ enquired Daisy, surveying his brogues and plus-fours, and wanting to divert his attention.

‘That is correct. I’m off to your beautiful Hills. I can loose myself up there for hours. I’m sure the air up there is making me stronger and I’m piling on weight thanks to your aunt’s excellent cooking.’

‘Oh yes. You’re looking so much healthier now. I don’t expect, coming from Yorkshire, you can have seen countryside like this.’

There was a moment’s silence then Will smiled gently at her.

‘Not in the centre of Bradford, I admit, but we have miles of moors and dales. Very rugged I suppose you could call it. Wild and free. But, seeing Daisy beginning to blush at her faux pas, ‘Your hills are unique. I keep hoping to meet Sir Edward up there. I’m sure I’ve seen him on his bicycle in the distance’

‘Now how would you know it was Sir Edward if he was in the distance?’

‘That nose would stand out a mile away.’

‘How kind he is’, thought Jessie, as they laughed. ‘Some would have sneered at Daisy’s ignorance.’

‘When will you be leaving for Bradford?’ inquired Daisy.

‘Not long now. Within a month I would imagine. Got to start earning a living.’

‘What did you do in Italy?’

‘Studied music mainly. I play the pianoforte.’

‘Oh how wonderful. I should love to hear you play. Do you really have to go so soon? We shall really miss you.’

‘Kind of you to say so but I expect I shall be coming back to visit old Albert. He’s been more like a father to me than a brother. I’m the youngest of eleven.’

‘Eleven!’

‘Yes. Unfortunately it killed my mother. She died bringing me into the world and my father blamed me for it. We were virtual strangers for the rest of his life’

‘Oh how terrible for you,’ Daisy sympathised. ‘Our mother died after I was born too, but my father was always kind to me.’

Jessie walked behind while the other two chatted on. She was beginning to feel envy at the attention Will was paying to Daisy. She wished her sister had stayed at home.

‘Jessie’s fiancé, Geoffrey, is coming back from London the day after tomorrow. At least you’ll be here to meet him.’

‘I expect you’ll be setting a date for the wedding then.’

‘I don’t know. Perhaps’

‘Well it’s about time you did marry him. You’ve been engaged quite long enough.’

‘That will do Daisy!’ The sharpness of Jessie’s voice brought an indignant flush to Daisy’s face. Embarrassed by the strained atmosphere Will announced that he’d wasted quite enough of their time and had better be off. Daisy watched him go then turned on Jessie.

‘Don’t speak to me like that in front of people, especially Will. I’m not a little girl now. What’s the matter with you anyway? You clam up every time the wedding’s mentioned. Anyone would think you didn’t want to get married. He might have stayed longer if it hadn’t been for your temper.’ Her eyes strayed wistfully in the direction he had taken.

‘You really like him, don’t you?’

‘Yes. I’ve never met anyone like him before. I wish he wasn’t going away.’

‘So do I’, thought Jessie. ‘Oh so do I’

Ralph and Connie decided to mark Geoffrey’s return with a dinner party. Connie thought it would be sociable to invite the Hartings, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Waite, so that they could meet Jessie’s intended. Geoffrey was tall, slim and gave an air of command. His fair hair was always perfectly groomed and his clothes impeccable. His good looks were, however, somewhat marred by his mouth, which tended to be thin and hard. He soon took command of the conversation, asking Albert what his intentions for the future were, joking with Ralph and complimenting Connie on her cooking.

‘And how was London, my boy?’ inquired Ralph.

‘Busy. Noisy. Smokey. What you’d expect a capital city to be.’ As Jessie expected the inevitable question of a wedding date was raised.

‘Ah, I was coming to that,’ remarked Geoffrey, with a knowing wink to his parents. ‘I’ve been offered a permanent position with the firm in London commencing at the start of the New Year. I propose we have a New Year wedding then I can take my new wife with me. You’ve got three months to choose your dress, Jess, so don’t say I haven’t given you enough time.’

‘London?’ Jessie had gone quite pale. ‘I never thought we’d be living in London’

‘You’ll get used to it, my love. London’s got far more going for it than this backwater.’

‘True, true, but then you don’t get many farms in the city, do you? Never known anyone to walk a herd of cows down Oxford Street or plant corn in Hyde Park.’ Ralph laughed heartily at his own joke and the conversation began to buzz as to how many bridesmaids would there be, would it be a morning or afternoon service and what area of the capital they would live in.

Will did not enter into the discussion but watched Jessie’s face intently and saw nothing but misery and despair. Daisy noticed how interested he appeared to be in her sister and tried to gain his attention.

‘Will’s a musician. Perhaps he could provide some music for the reception.’

Before Will could make any comment Jessie suddenly excused herself and left the room.

‘A bit of a shock, I expect. Always thought she’d grow old here like the rest of us. She’ll be really excited when she gets used to the idea.’ Connie beamed at everyone and asked if they were ready for dessert.

That night Jessie lay awake, her head pounding. Only three months left before she became Mrs. Waite. Her stomach lurched at the thought and she rushed out of bed to be sick again.

Next morning she decided to take Janey for a long walk to clear her head. She didn’t notice that Will had followed her until she heard him say,

‘Not too happy about leaving here are you?’

Jessie spun round to face him but didn’t answer.

‘Mind if I walk with you?’

‘If you wish.’

‘I’ve not met many brides-to-be but I’ve never imagined seeing one look as miserable as you did last night. Why go through with it?’

‘I beg your pardon?’

‘Don’t say it’s just this London business. Anyone who hadn’t seen their beloved for six months would look ecstatically happy at their return. You were like a polite block of ice.’

‘How dare you! I think Italy has affected your brain. You don’t know anything about my relationship with Geoffrey. Just because we don’t all wear our hearts on our sleeves doesn’t mean we don’t care.’

‘I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you but I think too highly of you to see you unhappy, and don’t tell me you’re not.’

To his horror Jessie burst into tears. He awkwardly passed her his handkerchief and waited for her sobs to subside somewhat.

‘You don’t love him, do you?’

Jessie shook her head.

‘He’s a good man and he’ll give me a good life but I just can’t feel anything for him. His father is Uncle’s best friend and we grew up together. I agreed to marry him because it was expected of me. I can’t possibly end the engagement now. The scandal would be too much for Aunt and Uncle and they’ve always done so much for me.’

‘It’s your life Jessie.’

‘Women don’t have lives. They have husbands and children. I think it would be better if I continued my walk alone if you don’t mind. Thank you for the handkerchief. I’ll have it washed for you.’

‘That’s stupid talk and you know it. What would your Mrs. Pankhurst say? Here we are with women fighting tooth and nail just to get the vote and you say you can’t choose your own husband. Don’t insult me by saying you don’t know how I feel towards you. He placed his hand over hers. ‘I’ve wanted you since I first met you but didn’t think I had any hope.’

‘I thought you were fond of my sister.’

‘Fond, yes. Daisy’s a dear girl and always following me, but it’s you I want to be with.’

‘We hardly know each other.’

‘I know. Ridiculous isn’t it. Do I have any hope? Please come to Bradford with me. I love you Jessica Pendell. I’ve loved you since I first set eyes on you. I want to be with you for the rest of my life.’

Jessie stared into his dark eyes and felt as if her soul was melting. Next moment she was in his arms and he was raining kisses on her face and neck until she could scarcely breath and she whispered his name over again. Suddenly she pushed him away.

‘No. It’s no use! It’s too late!’ and she ran towards home, hampered by her petticoat and boots with a puzzled spaniel bounding at the side of her.

Chapter Three

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A utumn progressed rapidly. The trees were soon bare, their dead, forsaken leaves forming a carpet on the grass. The breeze now contained a warning chill and the nights drew in fast. At Pendell Farm no one had time to notice the changing scene as all preparations were being made for the wedding, now to be held on December 31st. If anyone noticed how pale Jessie had become or how her appetite had deserted her they simply put it down to natural pre-nuptial nerves. She and Will had barely spoken since his declaration and she’d deliberately avoided his presence until his departure to Yorkshire. Now that he had gone she felt as if her life was ebbing slowly away. There was no-one in whom she could confide her feelings and Daisy was no comfort, having launched into a fit of depression because Will had not responded to her advances. Instead she had found herself trying to console her young sister who sobbed in her arms, asking why he did not realise she loved him and why couldn’t he have loved her? If she only knew the truth! If only she knew the long nights Jessie had lain in utter despair, soaking her pillow with hot, scalding tears, her fist rammed against her mouth so that Daisy, asleep in the bed at the other side of the room, could not hear. She ached for the sound of his voice, his beautiful smile and his strong arms. Now she was attending the final fitting for her dress. Close-fitting in muslin and lace the high collar, totally covering her long neck, was adorned with pearls. She stared at her reflection in the mirror and felt she was looking at an older, more elegant person. Miss Price, the seamstress was twittering away but Jessie was oblivious to a word.

That evening Geoffrey came to supper at the farm and was in high spirits, looking forward to taking up his new position in London. He informed the company that he had put down a deposit on an apartment in Chelsea. Jessie asked why she hadn’t been consulted or invited to view it first but her protests were swept aside. She asked if there were any parks nearby where Janey could be taken for walks.

‘Darling,’ replied Geoffrey patiently, ‘There’s absolutely no question of you keeping a dog in the flat. The animal will have to stay here where it belongs.’

Jessie’s heart sank, although she had to admit he was right. Janey would be much happier on the farm and Connie would look after her well but she would miss her so much. She swallowed the temptation to ask if the flat had bars on the windows and fell into silence.

‘I know,’ Geoffrey announced to the table. ‘Let’s all travel to Chelsea this weekend and you can give your opinion of our new home.’

This invitation was met with enthusiasm. Daisy laughed with glee and clapped her hands. A trip to the capital city was an exciting prospect for her. Ralph and Connie beamed their pleasure.

‘Isn’t it rather a long way to travel just to look at a flat?’ murmured Jessie, the only one not to be interested.

‘Hmm, yes, but there’s a way over that. I’ve got contacts in London now. Someone’s bound to know of an inn in the suburbs where we can stay overnight without it costing too much. Make a proper weekend of it. Take in some of the sights. I’m sure the ladies would enjoy that, eh, Ralph?’

Connie and Daisy assured him the ladies would very much like that and it was agreed to start out very early Saturday morning.

Although it was still quite dark as they all squeezed into Geoffrey’s Buick, the day showed promise of being crisp and sunny. Geoffrey looked very smart and debonair in his fur-collared coat and bowler hat. Ralph felt very second best in his battered old homburg but at least it kept his head warm. The long journey began to take the edge off their excitement with Daisy beginning to feel violently sick and Connie getting a headache. Even Ralph began to wish he were elsewhere as his legs began to feel cramped and Connie’s wide-brimmed hat kept hitting him in the face. Eventually, after many stops, they arrived at the inn chosen by Geoffrey near to Norwood and piled out of the car with relief.

‘I don’t even want to think of the return journey,’ muttered Daisy, still looking very pale, but a dish of piping hot beef stew in the pleasant dining room soon put the colour back into her cheeks.

‘I suggest we have a bit of a rest and then travel to Chelsea,’ said Geoffrey. ‘It’s not far from here.’

No one relished the thought of getting back into the car so soon, but they all agreed to do so. Besides, their curiosity was getting the better of them.

At three o’clock in the afternoon Geoffrey pulled up in front of a large, imposing three-storey building and took them to one of the doors. It opened to a wide staircase and he led the way to the first floor.

‘This is our’s,’ he announced, gesturing with his arm. ‘Not large but perfectly adequate.’

The exploration began. Connie made straight for the kitchen. It was very small by her standards but she had to admit it was quite large enough for two people and the stove would keep it warm and cosy in the winter. Jessie wandered into the lounge. It was bright and airy with a large bay window. She looked down at the street, watching people scurrying about their business and listening to the rumble of the traffic. So different to the farm. She turned to face the room and tried to plan where furniture could be put to its best advantage. A large mirror over the mantelpiece would make the room look larger and what colour curtains would compliment the newly painted cream walls? An exuberant summons from the bathroom broke into her thoughts and she made her way to join the others.

‘Look at this, Jess. Did you ever see anything like it?’ Daisy was running her fingers over the rim of a white, enamel bath. She then reached out her hand and turned one of the two taps at the head, sending a cascade of water down the side and through the hole at the bottom. Jessie and Connie swiftly stepped back expecting the water to gush over their feet but instead it disappeared into a pipe that ran through the floor. Daisy picked up a circular piece of rubber attached to a chain and placed it into the hole, allowing the water to begin to fill the bath. A far cry from the tin tub in front of the fire and the hope that no one would enter the room. Turning the tap off again and removing the rubber to let the water escape, Daisy danced over to the toilet and playfully pulled the chain.

‘No more going to the end of the yard in the snow or the rain.’ She laughed.

‘Oh my dear Lord!’

‘Really, Daisy. The things you do say!’

‘She’s right though. Well, Jessica, what do you think to it?’

‘It’s impressive. Yes, it’s really impressive.’ Despite herself Jessie felt a surge of excitement. It was a beautiful apartment and she had to admit he’d chosen well. Perhaps she could settle here. Perhaps she could be content with Geoffrey. If only she could get William out of her head, but his face and voice haunted her and she longed to see him and feel his arms around her again and his lips against her’s.

Chapter Four

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A s winter progressed the days grew shorter and colder. It was soon the middle of December and all the preparations for the wedding complete. Now they had to start thinking about Christmas. Jessie was often near to tears as she realised that this would be her last Christmas living at Pendell Farm. She was puzzled by something she had witnessed shortly after their trip to London. Geoffrey and Ralph had been locked in earnest conversation that had halted abruptly when she entered the room. After that her uncle had seemed quiet and ill and ease. She knew it would be pointless to ask what was troubling him and how Geoffrey was involved.

Connie was wearing herself to a frazzle worrying as to whether the goose would be large enough as the Waites and Hartings were invited for Christmas dinner and would the pudding be light enough for Mrs. Waites’ professed delicate constitution. Daisy had become quite friendly with Maisie and had procured William’s address. She wrote asking if he was happy in Bradford and begging him to except the invitation to Jessie’s wedding as they all missed him so much. She received a reply to say that life was very quiet, he was learning to make and repair clocks and watches, but he regretted he did not think it would be possible for him to attend the wedding. He looked forward to seeing them all again some other time. Daisy was very disappointed but just had to accept it. Even Albert was unable to change his mind and was most puzzled at Will’s attitude. He had always seemed well disposed towards the family. Out of sight, out of mind evidently. Perhaps some young Yorkshire lass was monopolising his attentions. Yes, that was most likely the reason and it was high time he settled down.

Christmas Day dawned crisp and sunny. Jessie shivered as she brushed her hair and piled it neatly on the top of her head.

‘No white Christmas this year,’ Daisy remarked, staring at the frost-covered fields.

‘Good,’ replied Jessie. ‘I hate the stuff. Wet, cold and nasty. It’s nice enough on a picture but that’s all.’

‘How can you say that? Remember how we loved a toboggan ride when we were children?’

‘You might have loved it. All I recall are freezing hands and feet. Come on, we’ve a church service to attend and Aunt Connie’s bound to be in a panic about dinner and wanting help.’

They grinned at each other and sang out, ‘Oh my dear Lord!’ in unison.

The kitchen was warm and welcoming with the large range sending out heat. Tea was brewing and Connie was cooking breakfasts for everyone.

‘Good morning, my lovelies. Merry Christmas,’ she cried and Ralph echoed her. There were hugs and kisses all round before they sat to the table. Jessie and Daisy enjoyed hot, buttered toast while Ralph attacked porridge followed by eggs and bacon.

‘Can’t face morning service on an empty stomach,’ he insisted. ‘I’m not surprised you young girls faint easily with the amount you eat. Wouldn’t keep a bird healthy.’ The door opened and Albert’s cheery face appeared round it.

‘Merry Christmas, everyone. May we come in?’

‘Oh my dear Lord, yes of course. Make yourselves comfortable. Breakfast is all ready.’

‘Are you coming to church with us?’

‘Yes. Why not? It’s a long time since we attended an English service on Christmas Day. May I be so bold as to ask what time we shall be sitting down to lunch?’

‘Oh, about half past one, with any luck. Could be nearer to two if Vicar gets carried away with his sermon.’

At a quarter to two everyone had changed their clothes and was seated around the large table in the dining room, all in good spirits. Janey had been ecstatic at the arrival of so much company, running from one to the other, barking excitedly, until she had been evicted to the scullery where she consoled herself with the large bone donated by their cheery butcher. Despite Connie’s misgivings the goose was cooked to perfection and there was sufficient for all. With a large apron over her dress of cranberry satin and tulle, she proudly carried it to the table for Ralph to carve. Jessie and Daisy, equally protected by aprons over their best dresses of lavender and ivory silk, followed with the vegetables. When all the plates had been cleared away a huge pudding appeared. Margery, dressed in a dress of cream muslin, shrieked and giggled with surprise when Ralph poured brandy over it and, lighting a match, covered it in blue flames.

Later, when Connie, Jessie and Daisy had washed and dried the crockery and cutlery, they all adjourned to the sitting room, presents were exchanged and they began to play party games, mainly for Margery’s sake. After even Margery had had enough of being chased around the room or searching for thimbles, Jessie sat with a dozing Janey on her knee, now allowed to join the company on condition that she behaved herself, and fingered the cameo broach that Geoffrey had bought for her and insisted she wore immediately. She remembered that this time next week they would be man and wife embarking on a new life in London. She put it to the back of her mind. She wasn’t going to let anything spoil today, not even the thought of loosing Janey. Her spirits had been lifted at the church when she had witnessed a local lad, Jack Meadows, paying attention to Daisy. He kept smiling at her during the service and she noticed how her cheeks coloured and her eyes sparkled. Daisy needed someone nearer to her own age and Jack was a pleasant enough young man. Connie produced slices of ham and pork pie with relish and pickles, followed by Christmas cake and mince tart.

Ralph raised the lid of the piano and asked if anyone could play. Albert led a protesting Maisie towards the instrument and Ralph produced the music for Christmas carols. Mulled wine and rum punch had brought colour to Maisie’s cheeks and Albert could see again the pretty girl he’d fallen in love with.

‘It’s a pity Will isn’t here,’ remarked Maisie. ‘He plays beautifully. So much better than I’

A cloud came over Jessie’s face and she looked at Daisy’s reaction, but her sister was sitting by the fire with Margery on her knee admiring the little girl’s new doll and did not appear to have noticed. Connie noticed Jessie’s face fall with some consternation.

‘Oh my dear Lord!’ she thought, ‘Don’t tell me that’s why he left in such a hurry and she’s been so quiet of late. I thought it was just wedding nerves.’

Her fears were forgotten as she saw Geoffrey lean over to speak to Jessie who turned to smile at him.

‘No,’ she thought, ‘I must have been mistaken.’ Ralph came over to put his arm around her and their voices were raised to Good King Wenceslas, the Holly and the Ivy, Silent Night and other carols. Ralph suddenly nudged her and nodded towards the fireplace. Daisy had fallen asleep in her chair while Margery, thumb in mouth, was also fast asleep on Daisy’s knee, her long curls spread over Daisy’s bodice.

‘She’s a natural with little ones,’ he commented. ‘She ought to have a large family of her own one day.’ Connie nodded in agreement as she gazed fondly at her sleeping niece.

Boxing Day was something of an anti-climax. The Hartings were invited to Maisie’s sisters’. The Waites, including Geoffrey, were visiting family members so the Pendells spent a relatively quiet day together. Jessie, while brushing Janey’s coat, questioned Daisy about Jack and received blushes and giggles for answers. Connie lay on the chaise longue to recuperate from her labours of the previous day while Ralph retired to his study. Jessie was more than glad that they’d all had a happy Christmas. It was something she would be able to remember.

Chapter Five

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W ith Christmas behind them the wedding began to occupy all their thoughts. With four days to go, wedding presents were beginning to arrive at Pendell Farm. Jessie stroked the new sheets, blankets and towels and inspected the new tea set and dinner plates. How kind people could be. She must make a list of whom to convey her thanks to for which item. Feeling a headache developing she decided a brisk walk in the fresh air would be the best medicine and, placing a happy Janey’s lead around her neck, set off in the direction of the hills. She hadn’t walked very far before she noticed Ralph and Geoffrey some way off. This surprised her as Ralph had set off that morning announcing that he ‘had business’ in a neighbouring town. Also they appeared to be arguing furiously. Her curiosity getting the better of her, she led Janey along a ridge of tall bushes hoping to hear what they were saying without them seeing her. Unfortunately she was unable to get close enough and the two men parted company and strode off in opposite directions. Puzzled and concerned she waited until Geoffrey was out of sight and set off as quickly as she could towards her uncle shouting to him to wait. Janey joined in, barking excitedly, until Ralph stopped and turned around. She saw his look of dismay, quickly masqued by a somewhat embarrassed smile.

‘Why, Jessie. I didn’t expect to see you here. Hello Janey, old girl. Don’t jump up with dirty paws. Down now!’

‘What’s happening, Uncle? Why were you and Geoffrey arguing? Please don’t try to deny it. I saw you.’

‘Nothing for you to worry your pretty head about, my love. Just business, that’s all.’

‘What business? Geoffrey’s a lawyer. What possible business can he have with you?’

Ralph turned towards her and placed his hands on her shoulders.

‘Now Jessica, darling, it’s nothing for you to fret about. Now be a good girl and worry about your wedding details.’

‘In other words, mind your own business,’ thought Jessie. She knew her uncle well enough to know that she would get no information out of him. As far as he was concerned women were domestic creatures only and did not understand ‘men’s affairs’.

Next morning she was still wondering what was transpiring between the two men while she went about her daily tasks. Wrapping her shawl tightly around her against the cold wind she made her way to the hen house to collect the morning’s eggs. On her way back to the house she heard an urgent whisper from the barn.

‘Jessie! Jessie! Come here!’

Approaching the barn entrance slowly and with some trepidation, Jessie whispered back,

‘Who is it? What do you want?’

William Harting’s face appeared and he furtively signalled for her to join him. Quickly glancing around to make sure no one was watching, Jessie placed the basket of eggs on the ground and moved quickly into the barn.

‘Why are you here? What are you… .’ She did not get any further as his arms were around her and his lips against her’s, fierce and demanding. He continued to kiss her hair, her eyes, her neck and back again to her mouth. She responded willingly, all her longing for him rushing to the surface. His hand slipped to her breast, stroking, caressing. Hot waves of desire caused through her like fire. Her knees began to buckle and, lifting her from the ground, he carried her to the back of the barn and placed her gently on the dry hay. Their kisses continued, their hands exploring each other’s bodies as they removed each other’s clothing. She suddenly felt a sharp, hot pain and gasped with shock but it was soon forgotten in the overwhelming sensations that started in her loins and radiated throughout her body. Her back arched and they moved together in unison, slowly at first, then with a violent urgency, like two drowning people clinging to each other for life. As they reached the final climax Jessie thought her body would explode with pleasure. Will let out a long, shuddering sigh and dropped his head against her. As reality began to return, Jessie was shocked at herself for what she had done. It was against everything she had been brought up to believe but as she stroked Will’s thick, black hair and felt his warmth against her she could not bring herself to feel guilty.

‘You can’t marry him now,’ Will murmured from the depths of her bosom. ‘Tell me you can’t marry him.’

Jessie sat up, pushing him off and reaching for her clothes.

‘Is that why you did this? Is that all it meant to you?’

‘No, of course not.’ He took her hands and held them firmly. ‘I didn’t plan for this to happen anymore than you did. I wanted to ask you, beg you, to stop this wedding before it was too late, to come to Bradford, to do anything as long as it meant we could be together. I’ve been in hell these last few weeks, thinking I could do the decent thing and leave you alone but it was no use. I could never feel this way about anyone else, my darling, beautiful girl.’ Tears began to cascade down Jessie’s face.

‘How can I ever face any of them again if I refuse to marry Geoffrey at this late stage. They’re my family. They mean everything to me, but I know now that I can’t go through with it. I simply can’t. Any more than I can live without you.’

The sound of slow hand clapping rang through the barn and the lovers turned in horror to see Geoffrey Waite sauntering towards them.

‘Very good. Oh very good. Brilliant performance. What do you do for an encore?’

Horror and shame filled Jessie and she buried her face in her hands. Geoffrey leaned against a bale of hay and lit a cigarette. His hands shook with rage and shock but he appeared outwardly calm.

‘I don’t think you should do that in here. It isn’t safe,’ warned Will quickly re-buttoning his shirt.

‘Eh by gum lad, don’t you,’ replied Geoffrey sarcastically. He walked towards Will and began to push him in the chest towards the barn entrance. ‘Don’t tell me what to do, Clockmaker,’ his voice becoming menacing, ‘Don’t you ever tell me what to do. As for the smoke, you’re quite right. Better put it out hadn’t I?’ and he plunged the lighted end of the cigarette into Will’s neck, once, twice, three times until the glow was extinguished. ‘Now get back to your mills and pigeons.’

‘No, Geoffrey, stop it! Please stop it!’ Jessie’s voice becoming hysterical as Will let out a cry of pain and his hand shot to his injured neck. ‘I’m sorry. I’m really sorry, but I love him. I—I can’t marry you. I’m so, so sorry.’

‘Oh don’t concern yourself. Do you think I’d want you now? But I won’t be made a laughing stock. If you value your family you’ll arrive at the Church on time in your wedding dress.’

‘What do you mean?’

‘Your uncle may be a nice, fatherly figure to you but he’s got no head for business. He decided to invest in a failing company and now he hasn’t a penny. I’ve agreed to help him financially on condition that he signs over the farm to me. That’s why I came here today. I’ve got the documents for him to sign. Now if you don’t accompany me to London as my wife next week I’ll simply turn them out into the street, their lodgers as well.’

‘You can’t do that! What do you want the farm for? You’ve no interest in farming.’

‘Very true, my dear, but the land will fetch a pretty penny. I had agreed leave the farmhouse alone but if you cross me I shall have it razed to the ground. It’s an archaic ruin anyway.’

‘You bastard!’ Will took a step forward intent on landing a blow on Geoffrey’s nose.

‘Jessie, what’s going on in here?’ Daisy appeared, having been sent by her aunt who was getting concerned about her sister’s whereabouts. ‘Will! Why are you here?’

‘Daisy! Oh no! I didn’t want you to find out this way.’

‘Find out what?’

‘Oh my poor, little innocent. You know how babies are made don’t you? Your big sister and this ‘person’, for use of a better word, have been practising.’

Daisy stared from one to the other, the colour draining from her face as reality set in.

‘You and him?’ she whispered. ‘You and Will and you knew how I felt about him. I confided in you and all the time you were laughing at me.’

‘No, Daisy, I swear…’

‘Don’t you speak to me.’ Daisy’s voice rose to a scream. ‘Don’t you ever speak to me again. You slut! You whore!’ She swung back her arm and gave Jessie a resounding slap on her cheek. ‘I hate you! I hate you!’ and she turned to run back to the house, sobbing loudly and almost knocking Connie over in her haste.

‘Oh my dear Lord, whatever’s all this noise?’ Connie’s voice dried up at the sight of Jessie weeping uncontrollably in William’s arms and Geoffrey staring at them with a face like thunder.’ As she caught sight of their dishevelled appearance and the straw on their hair and clothes, terrible realisation hit her. She shook her head from side to side moaning, ‘Oh no. Oh please no. Oh Jessie how could you?’

As the sun began to disappear over the hills, Jessie sat in the kitchen, a cup of cold tea in her hand. Daisy was still in their room, where she had sought refuge and locked the door. Connie had tried to coax her out but to no avail. Geoffrey, after a lengthy discussion with Ralph, who had arrived home from a disappointing interview with his Bank Manager to find the place in uproar, had agreed to return home to cool down. Will was sitting in Albert’s rooms waiting to face his brother. Connie had suggested to a horrified Maisie that they both take Margery for a walk to the village so that the little girl should not be puzzled or upset by things that were bound to be said. Jessie felt numb and as cold and as lifeless as the tea in her cup. She had had a mixture of emotions thrown at her today. Hate, anger, disappointment and sorrow, and she knew that she would have to dance to Geoffrey’s tune to save her family. She knew she’d hurt him badly and he would make her suffer for it but she’d no energy left to care. All she could think of was that she would have to say goodbye to the man she adored and her future. She heard Albert arrive back. Poor unsuspecting Albert. She leaned back, closing her eyes, and waited for the shouting to begin.

‘You bloody stupid young fool! What the hell possessed you? You tell everyone you can’t attend the wedding, and then you come sneaking down here to cause all this trouble. I should knock your block off for this. I want—no, I demand—an explanation!’ Albert paced back and forth across the room, his face crimson with rage, stabbing the air with his finger in his younger brother’s direction. ‘Who else know’s you’ve come here?’

‘No-one. I caught the train yesterday and stayed in a guest house overnight.’

‘And you’ll go straight back tomorrow morning, my lad, even if I have to put you on the train myself.’

‘I’m not going without Jessie.’

Albert was in front of Will in one bound and almost lifted him off the ground by his lapels. ‘You will do just as you are told,’ he hissed into Will’s face. ‘You’ve always been spoilt. Well this time you can’t have