“And mid week services, are they much as on Sunday?”
“No, there’s a much smaller attendance because only people in town attend on Wednesday. The elderly don’t attend because it’s dark when services end and they fear falling. Instead of a sermon, we have a Bible study. We go through the New Testament, but refer back to the Old Testament for background.”
“I see. And where are you now?”
He couldn’t prevent a grimace. “We’re closing in on Revelation. I always dread that book, but we won’t skip it.”
Reverend Rhea tugged at his chin. “A difficult part to understand, especially to those who don’t take history into account.”
“Sir, I do what I believe the Bible and my training compel me to do. I won’t apologize for doing what is right.” He opened the door to his home, wondering how much longer he’d be allowed to live here.
The other minister smiled. “That’s a lovely aroma. If supper is as delicious as the smell promises, you’re a lucky man, Grady.”
***
Angeline had prepared fried chicken, creamed potatoes, green beans, squash, corn, cucumber pickles, gravy, and a peach cobbler. She planned to serve coffee for the men and milk for her and Matthew. Checking the table setting once more, she was grateful for the linens and other fineries Grady’s first wife had brought to the marriage.
When the men returned, she called them to supper. She gestured to the chair at the opposite end of the table from Matthew. They didn’t need their son splattering food on their important guest.
Reverend Rhea took his seat. “My, you set an attractive table, Mrs. McIntyre, and the food smells delicious.”
“Thank you. I hope you’ll enjoy the meal.” She allowed Grady to seat her.
As he did so, he said, “Angeline is a fine cook, as you’ll soon see.”
After his blessing, they dug into their food.
She served Matthew with potatoes, a drumstick, and green beans. With a bit of mess, he could use a spoon and fork. He held the drumstick in his hands. She kept the milk out of his reach until he asked for it or she thought he needed to have a drink.
Grady smiled at her before he addressed their guest, “Angeline makes fried chicken once a week because it’s my favorite meal. As you can see, Matthew enjoys it too.”
Reverend Rhea chuckled. “Guess all boys love fried chicken and that includes us grown boys, too. And this is cooked perfectly, Mrs. McIntyre.”
The meal proceeded with conversation about the town and the congregation, but she could tell Grady was upset. She doubted Reverend Rhea discerned that fact, but she’d come to know the signs. He rubbed at his jaw or tugged his right earlobe when worried.
After the official had gone to his hotel, Grady closed the door and leaned against the wood as if he could barely stand. “I thought he’d never leave. Wasn’t sure I could be pleasant much longer.”
She took his arm and led him toward a chair. “Please tell me what’s upset you this much.”
He sat back down at the table so she poured him another cup of coffee.
Grady ran his hand through his hair. “I got a glimpse of the letter. Harlie and Ulys have written terrible things to the denomination office. I could lose not only this job, but be ousted as a minister if those accusations are proven.”
“How could they be? Other than marrying me, you’ve done nothing wrong.” She laid her hand on his shoulder. “I’ve never seen you in this much distress. I’m sure when Reverend Rhea talks to others in Tarnation, he’ll hear only good things about you.”
“Not if Harlie and Ulys have persuaded others to go along with them. They’ve been visiting around town recruiting troublemakers to join them.”
“They won’t find many, Grady. People here admire and respect you.”
He didn’t even glance up. “At the Wednesday evening service, Reverend Rhea is going to discuss the charges and hear comments from those in attendance to make his decision.”
“But that’s unfair. None of the elderly come to that service because they don’t go out at night. And people from out in the county only come on Sunday mornings. That leaves out so many of the people who would speak up for you.”
He appeared desolate. “I’m afraid we may be moving, my dear. I might have to start a church in a town that doesn’t yet have one.”
She reached over to clasp his hand. “I’ll go anywhere with you, but don’t give up yet. You of all people should have faith.”
A slight smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “You’re right. I’m properly chastised.” He pushed back from the table and stood. “I’ll go work on what I’m going to say Wednesday night when I introduce Reverend Rhea.”
***
Wednesday afternoon, Angeline peeked into Grady’s office. “Matthew is asleep so I’m going to run a few errands. I won’t be long.”
He looked up from his desk, his spectacles riding on his nose. “I could go for you.”
“Thank you, but I’ll enjoy the fresh air and seeing people.” She set her hat carefully on her head then grabbed her shopping basket.
Making her way first to the mercantile, she conferred with Josephine and Michael Buchanan. “The older residents aren’t able to attend at night. I’m afraid Mr. Jackson and Mr. McGinnis will succeed in getting Grady fired.” She couldn’t contain her tears.
Josephine placed an arm around her shoulders. “Come in the back and we’ll work on a solution.”
After allowing herself to be led to the table in the storeroom, Angeline sank onto a chair. “I’m sorry. I’m so weepy lately. Mrs. Eppes said my moodiness is caused by being with child.”
“Having your good husband’s job threatened for spite is enough to make any woman cry. But we’ll work something out. What if Michael rented a buggy and picked up several of the older people? I know they’re afraid of falling if they walk after dark, but he could help them in and out of the carriage and walk them to and from their door.”
Angeline dabbed at her wet cheeks. A glimmer of hope pierced her dark mood. “That would be a lot of bother for him. Do you think he’d mind?”
“I’m sure he won’t, but I’ll talk to him. He has a high opinion of Grady as a minister and both of you are our friends.”
Encouraged by her friend’s support, Angeline said, “He can only bring a few, though. I wonder if Adam would do the same with Lydia’s carriage?”
“I’ll ask him. He and Michael can divide up the older and infirm members of the church and try to get them to the service tonight.” She tilted her head. “That sounds like Adam now. Wait here while I talk to the two men.”
Angeline twisted her handkerchief, her muscles taut with worry. She wondered if being so upset would endanger her child. Surely most women had problems during the nine months of their pregnancy.
Poor Grady. He worked so hard to minister not only to those who attended church, but all those in the community. In her opinion, he was an example of what a minister should be. How could two hateful men think otherwise?
The sheriff poked his head and shoulders through the curtain. “We’re all set, Angeline. Don’t worry about a thing.”
Relief whooshed from her in a sigh. “Thank you. Your support means more than I can convey.”
Adam waved his hand as if dismissing her concern. “All for a good cause. Michael and I will handle this problem. Don’t think about it anymore. You take care of yourself and your family.”
She stood and looked in the mirror over the small sink. After dampening her handkerchief in cool water, she smoothed the linen over her puffy eyes. She adjusted her hat and went into the front portion of the store.
She addressed Josephine and Michael, “Thank you both for your friendship. I thought I could count on your support for Grady.”
She left and stopped by the butcher’s. “Good morning, Mr. Horowitz. What looks best today?”
“Ach, Mrs. McIntyre, I have heard about the meeting tonight.” A fierce look appeared on his face. “Aleida and I w
ill be in attendance. We will not let your fine husband face trouble alone.”
Because he was Jewish, he wasn’t a congregation member. “Thank you, Mr. Horowitz. You and your wife are very kind. Grady and I appreciate your support.”
He gestured to the glass counter. “As for my meat, I have a particularly good roast from one of Samuel Drummond’s uncooperative herd members.” He held up a chunk of beef.
“I’ll take it. Grady will enjoy the treat. You know I serve stew often.”
“Ja, and the fried chicken he loves.” The butcher wrapped the meat in paper and tied the package with string. “You are a good wife to him and a good mother to his son. My wife and I have noticed how much happier the pastor is since your marriage.”
A blush’s heat spread across her face and pleasant sensations danced through her. “You’re kind to say so. Thank you.”
When she left the butcher’s shop, Angeline exchanged greetings with everyone she met. She saw Reverend Rhea across the street talking to Adam in front of the sheriff’s office. With a lighter heart, she walked home.
Home. The word sent warmth rippling through her. She had a home with a kind and caring man and a darling boy. Soon they’d have another addition. They might have to move, but for now they shared a cozy house which she loved.
True, it wasn’t the mansion her parents owned. But there was laughter and happiness where she and Grady lived. No pretension, no manipulation, no harshness. She enjoyed her life now and looked forward to the future instead of dreading things to come.
Change raced toward her. She knew Grady wanted relations between them, even with her ever expanding waistline. Having his arms around her reassured and comforted her. He’d never force her, but how much longer could she deny his husband’s rights?
She spent so much time with Matthew now. How would the little boy react to sharing her with a baby? A month before she was due, she’d begin preparing him for a baby. Did anyone else do that? She remembered her neighbors’ difficulty when their new baby arrived and their son’s jealousy threatened their peace.
Pausing at the parsonage’s front walk by the flowers she’d tended, she turned and surveyed her surroundings. Already she’d come to love this small, dusty town—in spite of Mr. Jackson and Mr. McGinnis. Although she wouldn’t be surprised to learn people had plenty to say in private, no one openly shunned her for her condition. Instead, people she met appeared smiling and welcoming.
With a sigh, she turned and went inside.
Chapter Thirteen
By evening, panic firmly gripped Angeline. She walked to the church sanctuary with her husband. He was deep in thought and silent. Dressed in his best suit with a fresh shirt, he carried Matthew. Reverend Rhea waited at the front of the church and they entered together.
The official gave no hint of what he thought or what he’d learned. She took her customary place on the second pew near the center aisle. She always rose and walked out with Grady to greet people at the door as they exited. The official sat on the pew directly in front of her and beside Grady.
Judging by the sound, a few people entered and took their seats. She recognized Harlie Jackson’s gruff voice, which this evening held a hint of triumph. He spoke unintelligible words to someone else followed by a laugh. Heaven forgive her, she wished she could slap the man.
She heard the chatter of voices as people entered. Matthew waved at someone.
Mrs. Ramirez sat beside Angeline, and leaned near. “Large attendance tonight.”
Surprised, Angeline pretended to attend to Matthew and glanced over her shoulder. The sanctuary was filling.
Grady rose and turned to face the congregation. Surprise showed on his face. “Thank… thank you all for coming. Seeing so many of you present is a blessing.”
He cleared his throat as if overcome by emotion. “We won’t have out usual Bible study tonight. Perhaps you’ve heard that certain members of the congregation have complained to the church office through which I was ordained and hired for this church. Reverend Harold Rhea is not making accusations but is here to address those complaints submitted. I know you will be honest and courteous to Reverend Rhea as he completes his assessment.”
Grady sat down and Reverend Rhea stood. He adjusted his glasses and pulled a few papers from his coat pocket. Unfolding them slowly, he laid them on the lectern and looked at those assembled. “A number of allegations have been made against Reverend Grady McIntyre. Although I’ve formed my preliminary opinion, I am obligated to read each charge and ask for your reaction.”
“Number one, he consorts with saloon women and prostitutes on the Lord’s day. Would anyone care to speak to this?”
Elias Kendrick stood. “I’d like to address that accusation. It’s true that our pastor comes to the saloon at eight o’clock each Sunday morning to hold services for the people who work in the saloon and those who feel… unworthy and unwelcome in the regular service, and that includes the women who work there. I resent anyone calling these women prostitutes because they wear enticing dresses and serve drinks as well as sing and dance. They are not, to my knowledge, prostitutes. Rather than leave these people without the comfort and guidance of a church, Reverend McIntyre chooses to do the job he was called to do and minister to these people. How can anything be wrong with him serving all who need his message?” He took his seat.
Harlie jumped to his feet. “Those people don’t contribute to the church so those of us who pay his salary are being cheated.”
Elias rose again, his face red as he gazed at Harlie. “Ah, but they do contribute, each as he or she is able. I bring that collection to the church each Sunday. Would you condemn a man or woman because he or she can give only a little? Have you not read the value of the widow’s mite, Mr. Jackson?” He returned to the pew and crossed his arms.
Reverend Rhea said, “I believe that concern has been resolved. Let us move on to the next item.”
For an hour, the list went on with the same result. People in the congregation rebutted each accusation while Harlie and Ulys defended their claim. Many stood and spoke of the aid Grady had given and the kindness he’d extended in times of need. Angeline didn’t know how much longer she could stand this. Thankfully, Matthew had fallen asleep on the pew.
Apparently, Reverend Rhea was as weary as she was. “I’ll address the final item. After that I’ll give my opinion and this matter will be closed. This concerns Mrs. McIntyre.” He smiled sympathetically. “Would you care to leave, Mrs. McIntyre?”
She straightened her shoulders. “Thank you, but I will listen to the charges.”
“I hesitate to use the language in the letter, but it concerns the fact that Reverend McIntyre married a single woman who was pregnant.”
Grady leaped to his feet and whipped around to glare at Harlie and Ulys. “I will not allow my wife to be defamed. She is a kind and loving woman.”
Angeline rose and raised her chin as she faced the congregation. “It’s true that I was unmarried and with child when I came here. In fact Lydia Harrison rescued me when I had no place to go. You see, my father thought he had arranged a fine fiancé for me. The man forced himself on me and I refused to see him again. When I learned I carried his child, I told him. He responded by saying he would never marry a woman who wasn’t a virgin and promptly left for Europe.
“My father refused to blame the man.” She looked directly at Harlie and Ulys. “Like the two men who made all these trumped up charges, he blamed me and made me leave home with only the few belongings I could carry and twenty dollars. I ask you, how long do you think that would last? If Lydia hadn’t taken me in regardless of my condition, my child and I would more than likely be dead by now.” She turned at sat down, trembling with anger and embarrassment.
Murmurs rippled through the congregation.
Riley stood and told of her inspiring his patients to take their medicine.
Mrs. McAdams raised her hand. “I’m one of those she encouraged to follow Dr. Gaston’s orders. Land s
akes, a sweeter young woman never lived. And it’s not because she married our fine minister. No, from the time she came to town she visited me and cheered me.”
Mrs. Eppes said, “The first time I met her she carried my purchase home from the mercantile and then made me tea. She reads to me since I can’t see well enough any longer. I so enjoy her company.”
Angeline was crying with happiness as each of the elderly she’d visited spoke on her behalf.
Michael Buchanan stood. “Seems to me these two are perfectly matched. They both love serving others. They make a perfect couple and they both love Matthew.”
Reverend Rhea held up his hands. “Time grows late and I’ve heard all I need to make my decision. I have heard you folks here tonight. I walked around the town and spoke with some of you. I listened to one of Reverend McIntyre’s sermons. I’d say you folks are lucky to have this man as your pastor and his lovely wife beside him.”
Cheers and applause broke out.
He looked at Harlie and Ulys. “After this ends tonight, I’d like to speak privately to the two men who penned this letter.”
Grady rose and gave the benediction. Angeline picked up Matthew and walked out beside her husband. As people filed out, Grady thanked each of them for coming.
When everyone had left but Reverend Rhea, Harlie, and Ulys, the other minister waved. “Go on home and I’ll close up for you.”
“Thank you, Reverend Rhea.” Grady took Matthew from her.
As they left the sanctuary, Angeline hugged her husband’s arm. Her feet were light as air and she could have sailed over the housetops. “You won, Grady, you won! Your position here is safe.”
He held her hand to guide her over the flat rocks that passed for a walkway. “For now. Who knows how this will end? Reverend Rhea still has to give his official statement. I suppose he’ll do that in the morning before he leaves town.”
“But he already said you’re a good minister and the town is lucky to have you. Everyone cheered for you. The atmosphere was like a political rally or a… a theater performance.”
Angeline (Bride Brigade Book 2) Page 11
