Riff-Raff to Esquire

By Deborah Trimm

Dave survived the storm that destroyed Isle Demieres and made his way back to New Orleans, Louisiana. Taken in by a kind and generous family, Dave works his way from just a young man living in the brothel district and considered nothing more than riff-raff to an esquire with a silver-tipped cane. The reader will follow Dave's story.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jul 11, 2024
• ISBN: 9798893091274

Book preview

Table of Contents

Title

Copyright

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

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Riff-Raff to Esquire

Deborah Trimm

ISBN 979-8-89309-126-7 (Paperback)

ISBN 979-8-89309-127-4 (Digital)

Copyright © 2024 Deborah Trimm

All rights reserved

First Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

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Chapter 1

As the train slowly pulled out of the New Orleans depot, Dave stared out the passenger car window. Miss Amelia's last words continued to haunt him. You will come back to us, won't you? Miss Amelia asked, fighting back tears.

Dave knew she was worried how much he had changed since he and Judge Porter returned from Baton Rouge. He should have been happy hearing that he had passed the law examination. It didn't seem to matter. Her heart broke for him when she learned Jenny was already married and had a child. When he announced the following morning that he and Jack, his adopted son, were going to Chicago to visit his family, she felt he was running away. Perhaps she was right. He was running away.

He'd run away before when he left his family in Chicago years ago in search for a better life. He walked away with his clothes in a sack and cardboard covering the holes in his shoes. St. Louis wasn't much better. He nearly starved trying to earn enough money selling newspapers on the corner and sleeping in doorways when he couldn't pay for a bed at the public dormitory. When he finally worked his way down to New Orleans on the river, he believed his life of poverty was over. The city was his chance to fulfill his dreams.

Dave chuckled to himself. Had it not been for Mrs. Buckley taking him into her boardinghouse in the red-light district, he would have given up. The ladies in the brothels liked him, and he managed to work doing repairs around the old houses converted into brothels. He hated the work, but it paid his room and board.

When he told her he was going out to Isle Demieres for work, she laughed. She warned that no good would come from going out there where all the rich plantation owners and professionals vacationed. The memory of her telling him he'd never get any decent work since he couldn't read or write still burned his ears. It seemed she took some kind of satisfaction pointing out that the only job he was qualified to do was to empty the chamber pots and scrub spittoons. He tried to explain he didn't want much out of life. He just wanted a good job and a chance to better himself. He dreamed of having a family and living in a big house. He was tired of being looked at with disdain and wanted to be treated like a gentleman. Mrs. Buckley called them pipe dreams and predicted he'd return with no more than he was leaving with in his cheap cardboard suitcase. She was wrong. He returned with only the clothes on his back, thankful he'd survived at all.

The weather began turning when the Star reached the Gulf of Mexico. He met Jack and Mr. John on the trip. Jack was an orphan who was being sent out to the island to meet his uncle, a minister. Mr. John's son lived on the island, and the chance of Dave's getting a job on his farm was promising. He felt his luck was changing when he met Jenny at the neighboring farm when the full force of the storm devastated the island. Everything was gone. The hotel, casinos, and too many lives to count.

Dave found Mr. John buried in the sand, and Jenny's two traveling companions were washed away when the current broke through the windmill walls. They were found dead not far from the church. Surviving the days waiting for a rescue boat and searching for food and potable water were nothing less than a miracle. Jack, Jenny, and Dave looked after each other and the families that helped them. When the rescue boat arrived, he and Jenny had already formed a relationship greater than just a friendship.

She was everything he'd dreamed. They would have a family and live happily ever after. The problem was she was educated and part of a prominent family in Baton Rouge. He knew he wasn't worthy of her even though she told him many times that being what he called a gentleman didn't matter to her. That's when he made the biggest mistake of his life. He had to be a gentleman with a noble profession to be her match. By the time he'd reached his goal, Jenny was married and had a child. His silence all those years left her no choice but to get on with her life.

Dave looked down at his reflection in the window. A fine young gentleman stared back, dressed in his business suit, tall hat, and silver-tipped cane. What good did it do to work so hard for something only to have it taken away by his own stubbornness? He'd lost the only lady he ever wanted. It didn't matter that he was now an esquire with a promising position. Nothing mattered, except getting away from everything that reminded him of what a fool he was.

Dave remembered his empty words to Miss Amelia at the deport. Sure, we'll be back, he said while putting his arm around her. Ever since she and her husband, Mr. Edward, took them in, treated him and Jack like family, and saw that he was educated, Dave knew he could never repay them for their kindness. I'll stay in touch. I promise.

We have to send Miss Amelia a telegram to let her know we arrived in Chicago. Dave touched his son Jack on the shoulder.

Sure, Jack answered. He, too, had been consumed by his own thoughts during the trip. He had a lot of questions and needed answers, but it hadn't been the right time to talk to his pa after he made his announcement. So many times, he fought back tears just thinking about the people he loved and how much he already missed them. He didn't understand the urgency of Pa's decision to leave the farm. Miss Amelia's advice was his only comfort: Be patient, my boy. Everything will work out in good time.

Pa had never lied to him, so when he promised he'd bring Jenny back from Baton Rouge and they'd be a real family, Jack was angry and ran out of the room. He didn't want to meet what Dave called was his other family. He had Mr. Edward, Miss Amelia, and the boys. He didn't need anyone else. He'd thought about running away that night, but Mr. Edward talked him out of it. He loved the family that made it possible for Dave to legally adopt him.

I want to go back. I don't want to go to Chicago. I want to go home. Jack never looked up from the book he was reading. Let me go home.

That's not an option. Dave stared at his son. We're going to Chicago, so get that idea out of your head.

Tell me why we have to go. You told me Jenny was coming home, and we'd be a family. You lied. I think I deserve to know why you took me away. He shifted his weight and waited for an answer. Tell me! he yelled.

Lower your voice, young man, Dave whispered. What do you want me to say? That I'm a fool for thinking Jenny would wait for me? I'm a bigger fool for letting my own stubbornness get in the way of how I felt about her. Jenny was my dream come true. All I wanted in life was a beautiful lady, a family, and a big house to live in forever. I let my ambition and foolish notions that I wasn't good enough for her until I was educated and a gentleman get in the way.

Jack looked at his pa. He'd never seen him in such a way. She told me none of that mattered. She wanted us to be a family, but you kept pushing her away. I didn't understand back then, but I do now. She loved you and was willing to give up her life to be with us. He wiped a tear from his face. Now I'll probably never see her again.

I'm sorry. Dave put his arm around his son's shoulders. I never intended any of this to happen. Will you ever forgive me?

Why the sudden decision to go to Chicago? Jack leaned away from his pa. You haven't told me yet.

I'm running away. That's the plain truth. I ran away from my parents. I ran away from Mrs. Buckley, and now I'm running away again from my failures and the terrible memories. Dave stared out the window.

Running from what? We have a family, a beautiful place to live, and you just run from it. I want to go back. Jack stood and looked down at Dave. I'm going back on the next train headed south. You can try to stop me, but I'm going back with or without you. He walked away toward the dining car.

Dave wasn't surprised by Jack's reaction. Sometimes he still saw his son as the little boy on the boat. It was hard to accept that he was almost a man. He'd lost his parents to yellow fever and endured the abuse of the Mister. He'd lost his uncle when he drowned trying to save another man's life. Now he lost his second chance to be a part of a family who loved him as though he was their own. Dave crushed his hope of being with Jenny again. He promised his son the big house where the three of them would live. He promised to bring Jenny back from Baton Rouge. He broke those promises. No wonder Jack couldn't trust him. He had to finish their talk.

Can I sit with you? Dave asked when he found Jack sitting alone at a table in the dining car.

Jack nodded.

If you want to go back, it's okay with me. I've been thinking about what you said, and you're right. It's up to you. I'll make the arrangements at the next stop. Dave smiled at his son.

You mean that? Jack picked up his coffee spoon and tapped in lightly on the table. I've been thinking too. I've been thinking about when I was sick, and you never left my side. You could have given me back to the Mister, but you didn't and almost died when he nearly beat you to death. I was so scared seeing you laying on the bed all beaten up. You didn't have to adopt me, but you did. You've always been here for me. He looked at his pa. Now it's time for me to be here for you. I'm not going to leave you and go back. We're a team looking out for each other.

Tears welled in Dave's eyes. I need you with me. Dave wiped his eyes with his napkin.

The waiter, dressed in a short red jacket over a white shirt and red tie, approached. Are you ready to order? He handed them a menu. I'll bring some fresh coffee.

Remember that first night at the hotel? We pretended to read the menu and watched the other diners because we didn't know what to do with all the forks and spoons. We must have been a sight sitting there like we knew what we were doing. Jack laughed. Now everything seems so natural.

I remember forcing you to take a bath. You sure put up a fight. Dave couldn't help but laugh. And getting your hair cut! Well, that's another story we'll save for later.

There's a lot of bad memories that I can't get out of my head. Miss Amelia helped me make sense of some of it. Jack turned to the menu. I'll never forget when you almost died after the Mister beat you. I'm glad he's dead, so he won't hurt anyone else. Do you think the rest of the family is okay?

I'm sure they are, Dave answered. We have a lot to be thankful for.

The server returned, took their orders, and refilled their coffee cups. Jack sat quietly, staring out the window. Why his pa thought Jenny would wait so long before she heard from him still left questions to be answered. He wanted to write Jenny himself, but his pa forbid it without any explanation. He didn't understand then, and he still didn't understand. Even though he was stubborn and wanted to be that gentleman he talked about all the time, it was wrong. Jack knew about his big dream and that Jenny didn't care about him being rich and educated. She confided in him about how she felt and how she didn't understand why his pa was pulling away. He was young, but he understood what she was talking about. He was running away from her, and now he was running away again.

The server returned with their food. I don't mean to rush you or nothing, sir, but we'll be arriving in St. Louis soon.

Dave thanked him and left a hefty tip when they finished just as the train was pulling into the station. See that bench over there? Dave pointed to the one over in the corner. That's where I slept until I got thrown out. Then I slept in doorways and anywhere else I could until I got a bed in the dormitory.

Dave bought two tickets for Chicago. The train was on schedule and would be leaving soon. He'd hoped to show Jack around, but there wasn't enough time, so they waited on the platform.

Their first-class car was filled with businessmen who nodded their greetings. The last time I rode this, I sat way back with other people who couldn't afford anything better. Dave settled in his seat next to Jack. I vowed to never go through that again.

It was that bad? Jack asked.

It was terrible. We were packed in, and the smell would take your breath away—sweaty men who never bathed or even attempted to clean up. That's one thing my ma taught me. Cleanliness was next to godliness. She made us wash up every morning, or we didn't get breakfast, and every Saturday was bath day. She scrubbed us until our skin was red.

Dave wanted to see his ma and siblings. He didn't know how his pa was going to react seeing him again after all the years of silence. Dave could only hope there wouldn't be a scene and that he'd let his son become part of the family again. If you leave, his pa said that morning before leaving to work in the blacksmith shop, don't come back. You're not my son, and you're not welcome here. He slammed the door behind him when he stomped out.

*****

The conductor announced that they'd be arriving in Chicago soon. Jack had fallen asleep. He looked so peaceful, much like he did at the farm. Dave would quietly check on him before he went to bed. He'd stand beside Jack's bed, wondering how such a beautiful boy could be his son. He never understood why he was drawn to the boy. Perhaps it was fate that brought them together. He didn't know. Whatever it was, he gave thanks and asked for guidance every night to make him a good father. Son—Dave nudged his arm—we're almost there.

Jack straightened his back and stretched out his arms. How long have I been asleep? Jack brushed his hair from his face.

A couple of hours. Dave brushed some lint from his jacket. The trip was boring, so you didn't miss anything.

The train slowly pulled into the station. A crowd stood on the platform, waiting for their expected arrivals. Men and women were greeted with hugs and handshakes as they stepped onto the platform. A man dressed in a red jacket held a sign above his head that had Dave's name written in large letters. When he and Jack stood on the platform, the man approached. Good evening, Mr. Morgan. I'm here to take you to the hotel. If you'll follow me, I have a taxi waiting.

How did you know we were coming? Dave walked beside the man.

We got a wire from a judge down in New Orleans. He made all the arrangements and said to give you the best room in the hotel. The man pointed to a taxi. The judge said make sure all your needs were met. He waited while Dave and Jack stepped into the taxi. You must be a very important man, sir, and so young.

A porter loaded their luggage into the taxi, which took them to the hotel.

Look at those buildings, Pa! Jack stared out the window. This is nothing like New Orleans.

As they drove down the streets, men on the sidewalks tipped their hats as gentlemen do when seeing another of their statute. A young man greeted them as the taxi pulled to the curb and opened the door for them. Smiling, the man quickly gathered their suitcases and followed them inside.

A tall gray-haired gentleman stood behind the registration desk. Mr. Morgan? He smiled, looking at Dave and Jack. My name is Fredrick, and that is Andrew. If there's anything you want, just let either of us know. We want your stay to be as comfortable as possible. He handed Andrew a key on a gold fob. Andrew will take your luggage up. He turned the registration book around and handed Dave a pen. If you'll sign in, Andrew will show you to your room.

A grand staircase led to the mezzanine, and a short distance down the wide corridor was the room reserved for Dave and Jack. Andrew unlocked the door and held it while they entered. This is bigger than Grandma's whole apartment! Jack exclaimed after he flopped down on one of the two beds.

Andrew placed the suitcases on a low table near the bathroom and handed Dave the key. If you need anything, sir, just ask for me. Andrew stood at the threshold. He looked dapper in his black riding boots shined to a mirror finish. His black trousers had creases so sharp, they could have easily cut butter. A bright-red jacket with gold trim finished his attire.

Dave handed him a silver-dollar tip and thanked him.

How old do you think Andrew is? Jack sat up and brushed his unruly hair from his eyes.

I don't know. Dave sat in one of the wing-backed chair next to the window overlooking the street. Probably not much older than you are, he commented while staring out of the window. What I wouldn't have given to have a job like that when I was his age, but since I couldn't read or write and fill out the employment form, I never had a chance, so I ended up selling newspapers right here in front. I never dreamed that one day, I would be here in this beautiful room. That was a hard lesson for me to learn.

So why didn't you go to school? Jack sat in the chair opposite Pa.

Your grandfather can't read or write, and he thought learning anything except a trade was just a waste of time. Mother tried to send us to one, and we were teased and humiliated because of our clothes. She took us out. It was too hard for her to see us come home every day crying and black and blue from the fights we had with the richer kids. Dave took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

Us older ones helped Father in the shop, cleaning up and delivering things to his clients. Mathew learned to shod horses and left to take a job at the carriage stable. Father was beside himself when he left. I think he later forgave Mathew for abandoning him.

Dave and Jack ate dinner and settled down for a good night's rest. The next morning, they had breakfast and ordered a taxi to take them to his home.

The buildings are so tall, Jack said. I didn't know they could build them so high.

They passed through the residential areas with big homes and manicured lawns, much like those in New Orleans. The farther they went, the more the areas changed from rich to poorer neighborhoods. Small homes were crammed together among apartment buildings, where hardworking people lived.

Pull over, please, in front of that house with the blue door. Dave tapped the driver on the shoulder.

A small for-sale sign was in the yard. What do you think, son?

It's okay. Jack wasn't impressed. You're not thinking of buying this for us, are you?

Dave laughed. No, but I have an idea if everything goes well with our visit. He tapped the driver again, and they proceeded down the street. The slum area reminded them of the red-light district.

What that smell? Jack asked, holding his nose.

That the feed lots and meat-packing plants where the animals are slaughtered and butchered, Dave explained. When you live here long enough, you don't even smell it anymore.

The taxi pulled to the curb in front of one of the apartment buildings. We're here, he announced and climbed out of the taxi. I'm not sure about this. Dave looked at his son. Maybe this isn't such a good idea.

Excuse me, sir. You seem to be lost. Can I help you?

Dave turned to the voice behind him.

Well, look who's back. It's my long-lost brother. Mathew grabbed his brother and gave him a big bear hug then stood back, eyeing Dave from head to toe. Look at you all dressed in your fancy clothes and top hat. He reached for Dave's cane. Silver tipped and all.

He looked at Jack. And who's this young man?

Dave put his arm around Jack. Jack, I want you to meet your Uncle Mathew. Jack is my son. He proudly smiled.

Jack extended his hand. It's nice to meet you, sir. He tried to look happy.

Mother will be so happy to see you and her new grandson. You have a lot of explaining to do. She wonders about you every day.

And Father? How is he? Dave turned to enter the building.

He's Father. What can I say? You know, he's still the same old man he's always been—stubborn and set in his ways. He opened the door and led the way up the stairs to the same apartment. Mother, look who I found outside. He pushed Dave through the door.

Mother stood with her hands over her face for some time before she lowered them and looked at her son. My prayers are answered, she cried. You've come home.

Dave rushed to her and threw his arms around her. Mother, I want you to meet your grandson Jack. He motioned to his son to come closer.

Jack didn't know what to say, so he tipped his hat.

I don't understand. Where's your wife? Why isn't she with you? This boy looks too old and not a thing like you.

I adopted him after his parents died from yellow fever. He's legally my son and your grandson. Dave felt uneasy. He never thought his mother would react in such a way. I don't have a wife. We live with a nice family on a farm outside of New Orleans.

Yes, he's a real esquire now, Jack bragged. We'll be living in the city when we get back, and Pa will be working for a judge.

A lawyer! Mathew exclaimed. Hear that, Mother? Your son is a lawyer.

All she heard was that they would be returning. So you're not here to stay. She couldn't hide her disappointment and looked at the clock. Goodness, your father will be home soon. You'd better go. We'll tell him you're back. Maybe you should come back tomorrow. She walked to the door. Tomorrow we can talk.

Dave looked at his brother, who just shook his head. You know how Father is. He forbid your name to be spoken after you left. He was so angry. Mathew walked to the door next to Mother. We'll see you tomorrow afternoon. It's probably best you don't stay. You know how he is.

Dave lowered his head. He couldn't believe he was being rejected by his own mother. If that's what you want, he said and walked to the door. "Maybe this is all a mistake, me coming here and all. Come on, son. We're