Return to Whittakerville

by Shirley A. Roe

  “Anna, my darling Anna. Why? How could this happen?”

  “I am afraid our family has a history of insanity. My grandmother was in an asylum in England for years, my father was definitely insane and now it appears Anna inherited that sickness. It is very sad.”

  “What of this man, did you find him and have him arrested?”

  “No, actually Anna was right about him. He really is a good man, with a very sad history that made him do some terrible things, but our family has forgiven him. You see; he is my stepbrother. We never knew he existed. He loved Anna with a great devotion, like you, David. This man truly loved Anna, we suspect he was the father of the child that she lost.” At the mention of the child, David's head jerked up.

  “You mean she knew this man then, when she talked me into saying it was me!”

  “Yes, David. I am afraid Anna used you as she used Jeb and then tried to kill him. You must believe me, David, I am sorry to disillusion you where Anna is concerned but she was not a nice person. Perhaps it was the sickness.” David was beside himself. The girl that he grew up adoring could not be this person that Isaac described.

  “It can't be true Isaac, it just can't.”

  “I am afraid it is, David. It is time for all of us to forgive Anna; she is with God now. Let her go and move on with your life.” David wiped his face with his handkerchief and stood up. He straightened his uniform jacket, picked up his cap and snapped to attention. Isaac stood also. David extended his hand to Isaac, thanked him and turned stiff backed, and walked away. Isaac sat back down and finished his coffee. This had taken a toll on him but his sympathy was with the young man that just left. You will meet someone special one day David, a woman that will love you. Anna loved no one but herself.

  Isaac stopped to see Jeremy before going home. “How is David? I am sure Loretta is ‘over the moon' having him back home.” Jeremy picked up his jacket from the chair. “It was nice of you to take him to breakfast, Isaac. I am going to work at home today, you can walk with me.”

  “I enjoyed seeing him again, he has grown into a fine young man. I tried to help him get over Anna's death as best I could. He loved her very much.”

  “I wish you could help me get over it, Isaac. I feel so guilty every day of my life.”

  “Guilty? Why do you feel guilty, you had nothing to do with Anna's sickness or her suicide.” Isaac held the door for Jeremy.

  “I feel like I let her down. I should have been a better father. I could have done something different.” Jeremy carried his jacket as they strolled.

  “No, don't do this to yourself. You were the best father that girl could ever want. If anything you spoiled her. Do not beat yourself up over this. She was sick, she had mental problems and she killed herself. That is no one's fault.” Isaac walked to the mansion with Jeremy, trying to talk sense into him.

  “Isaac, how wonderful. Good afternoon, Darling.” Martha kissed Isaac and then Jeremy. “I will have Charles bring us a cool drink in the parlor.” Jeremy placed his coat in the closet and headed for the parlor, leaving Martha and Isaac alone.

  “No really, Mama, I must get back to the farm, we have hay bales to bring in. See if you can talk to Papa about Anna, but only happy memories. He is having a very hard time. I know you are too, but he needs you now.”

  “Yes, happy memories are what all of us need. Vivienne told me that Abraham has been having horrible dreams. Did you know that she got a puppy for Abraham? It's a surprise.”

  “I wondered if you had anything to do with that. Remember how Abe brought Bo home to you and said it was your birthday present? You had no choice but to let him keep the dog.” Isaac laughed, remembering how Abraham had fooled Martha so long ago. Martha smiled at the wonderful memory.

  “Vivienne asked me about some of the happy times and I mentioned that story to her. She immediately decided a dog was just what Abraham needed to cheer him up. I hope this will help him get over Anna's death. We all grieve in our own way.” She looked toward the parlor. “All of us need cheering up. I will go and talk to Papa. Thank you, Isaac. I love you.” Martha reached up and kissed her son's cheek. Isaac smiled at her, turning toward the door. His thoughts were a reflection of Martha's, yes, we all must think of happy times and look forward, not back.

  Martha poured the cool lemonade, and sat beside her husband smiling. “Remember the time Anna slid down the banister and almost knocked poor Pastor Richardson to the floor?” Jeremy looked at her and started to laugh. The two of them laughed until tears rolled down their faces. Many funny stories were told that afternoon, laughter filled the Whittaker house once again.

  Loretta and David strolled along the cobbled street, arm in arm. She glanced at this young man that her child had become, with pride. They approached the stone arch that led to the cemetery. She turned to him. “Are you sure you want to do this, David?”

  “Yes, Mother. It is time to say goodbye. Thank you for coming with me.” Slowly they entered the hallowed ground. Flowers dotted several of the head stones; an old woman tended the grave of her husband. She smiled at them as they passed.

  “Here it is David, would you like some time alone?” David nodded and Loretta moved towards the end of the line of stones giving him some time with Anna. He stared at the headstone. It was large. An angel in flight perched atop the rectangular marble, under the angel were the words “Free at Last.” His eyes moved downward to read, Anna Lillian Whittaker, beloved daughter of Martha and Jeremy. Tears filled his eyes; he reached for his handkerchief.

  Loretta watched her son; her heart was breaking for him. After a few minutes, she moved toward him placing her hand on his arm. He turned, putting his arms around her. Together they cried.

  “David, I am glad you brought me here. I am afraid I did not think fondly of Anna. I blamed her for driving you away.” She dabbed her face with her handkerchief.

  “Mother, please. You must forgive Anna, she was ill. I know that now.”

  “Yes, David, I am sorry. I realize now that she was not responsible. I beg her to forgive me. I beg God's forgiveness as well.” Loretta knelt at the foot of Anna's grave, pink rose petals, browning at the edges, covered the ground. She sent a silent prayer skyward. David said his own goodbye to his best friend.

  As they turned to leave, a mourning dove cooed in the tree. In unison, they said, “Goodbye, Anna Whittaker.” Later that day, David left St. Louis, to return to his ship.

  Chapter Eighteen

  A Surprise

  The family settled into their routines. Isaac tended to his farm; the harvest was good that year. Abraham's list of patients grew, as did Vivienne's figure. He teased her often; she loved the idea of being pregnant and anxiously awaited the birth of their child.

  Just after Christmas, Minnie Wells passed away in her sleep. This time it was Martha that planned the funeral for her grieving friends. Everyone would miss Minnie very much. Neither, David or Abby was present at the funeral. Martha and Jeremy supported their friends, as they had always done. The past year had tested them all but the bonds of friendship would not be broken.

  Just as the buds appeared on the fruit trees, Edward Jeremy Whittaker was born. He was a chubby, happy baby and his parents were very proud. Little Bo, who was not so little anymore, slept beside the cradle, guarding the newest member of the Whittaker family.

  On a bright and sunny summer's day, Vivienne sat on Martha's front porch watching baby Eddie sleep. Little Bo lay sleeping beside the chair. Martha was due home any minute and Viv was enjoying the day. She rocked her baby gently, the heat of the day making her sleepy. Little Bo's low growl alerted her. Suddenly she realized a man was standing in front of her, she jumped. “Please, don't be frightened. I am sorry I startled you.”

  Vivienne regained her composure, squinting at the gentleman before her. Shocked, she didn't know what to say. The dog continued to growl, he moved between Vivienne and the man. Her stomach was in knots; she swallowed the bile that crept up her throat. Finally she found her voic
e.

  “Jeb, what are you doing here?”

  “Hello, Vivienne, I have come to see Mrs. Whittaker. Is she home?”

  Vivienne held the baby close to her chest. She wanted to run. The dog continued to growl, his eyes focused on Jeb. Sensing her nervousness, and wanting to put some distance between himself and the dog, Jeb backed down the stairs.

  Jeb motioned to the baby. “Who is this?” Nervously, Vivienne pulled Eddie's blanket back to show his face.

  “This is Edward Whittaker.” Then as an afterthought, she added, “Your nephew.” Now Jeb was the one that was shocked. Not to learn that Vivienne had a new baby, but that she would refer to him as the child's uncle. He was very pleased and the smile on his face could not hide what he was feeling. Vivienne moved to the door, calling to Charles.

  “Charles, please take Edward up to the nursery.” Handing the small babe over to Charles, the butler looked passed her at Jeb.

  “Is there a problem, Mrs. Whittaker?”

  “No Charles, everything is fine, please take Edward inside.” Vivienne wanted her child away from danger; it was all she could think about. “Little Bo, come here.” The dog moved to her side. His growling ceased but his eyes remained fixed on Jeb. Once the door closed, she took a deep breath and her courage came back. She turned to face Jeb.

  “So, you are back. Well, before you see anyone else in this family, I have something to say.” Vivienne put her hands on her hips, taking a defiant stance. Jeb was confused. A moment ago she seemed almost friendly.

  “Please Mrs. Whittaker, I am not here to harm you or your child. I owe you a huge apology.”

  “Yes, you do. You dragged me from my horse and beat me within an inch of my life. I do not think a simple apology is going to fix that.” She leaned toward him, the words formed with a clenched jaw. She was very angry; her whole body shook.

  “I am so sorry.” Jeb clutched his hat in his hands; she was making him very uncomfortable.

  “Sorry doesn't cut it, mister!” She leaned close to his face, invading his space. Now Jeb was getting his own temper up.

  “Hold on a minute, you shot me. I wanted revenge.” Jeb stood taller, trying to justify his actions.

  “Shot you! I shot you because you were dragging Annabelle into the woods, or have you forgotten that?” Jeb recoiled at her words.

  “No, I have not forgotten. I was a different person then. A man filled with hate and rage.” Jeb lowered his eyes in shame. Vivienne began to falter.

  “Well, maybe so but I am not like the rest of this family. I do not forgive and forget so easily. I want you to remember what I say to you. Never forget these words.” Jeb raised his head, looking her straight in the eyes. He waited.

  “If you ever hurt a member of this family again, I will kill you. Do you hear me? I said, I will kill you.” She repeated the words firmly and slowly. “I mean every word of it. Do I make myself perfectly clear?” Vivienne stared into his eyes, defiantly. He knew she meant every word.

  “I understand Mrs. Whittaker. Again, I cannot apologize enough for what I did to Mr. Whittaker. I am surprised that the rest of the family is so forgiving. I do not deserve it.”

  “No, in my opinion, you don't; you are going to have to prove yourself to me, I am not that gullible. The Whittakers are fine, God-fearing people who want to see the best in everyone. They are my family now and I will die protecting them. Do I make myself clear?” In spite of the threats she was making, Jeb liked Vivienne's spunkiness, her defiance reminded him of Anna.

  “Yes, very clear. The Whittakers are also my family now. I have wanted a family all of my life, it is all I ever did want and I am not going to do or say anything to mess it up. I understand how you feel, but you will see. I will show you that I am a different person.” He pushed the lock of dark hair from his eyes. “Anna showed me how to love, for the first time since my mother died. Anna taught me how to talk, how to dress and how to control my temper. She remade me into a new person, a better person.” At the mention of Anna's name, Vivienne decided that she had made her point. She would keep a very close eye on Jeb. He could feel her relaxing. “Please, accept my humble apologies and let's try to get along. Can we start over?”

  “Alright, I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt. But don't forget, I will be watching you. Don't mess up.” Vivienne extended her hand. She was shocked when Jeb, bowed and kissed the back of it.

  “Mrs. Whittaker, how lovely to see you again.” He released her hand, and smiled at her.

  “Mr. Whittaker, nice to see you again. Would you like some tea?” She curtsied, and in spite of herself, she giggled. Jeb laughed out loud.

  “If you call off your guard dog, I would like to sit.” Vivienne told Little Bo to move and Jeb walked up on the porch. He stood beside one of the large wicker chairs.

  “Now, tell me about my nephew. Edward did you say his name was?”

  “Edward, after my father, he is two months old. Abraham and Isaac will be pleased that you have come.” She motioned for him to take the seat beside her. Little Bo settled between them. They waited for Martha to come home. Conversation was polite and grew more relaxed as the time passed.

  Martha arrived an hour later. “Vivienne, how lovely to see you. How is my little grandson today?” She looked for Eddie before she realized that Jeb was there. She froze.

  “Hello Mrs. Whittaker.” It took a moment for her to regain her composure.

  “Jeb, what a surprise.” Martha sensed the relaxed atmosphere between Vivienne and Jeb; she was relieved. “Both of you come inside.” Martha opened the door and they entered the foyer. “Charles, please bring us some tea. We have a guest.” Martha pointed to the parlor and Vivienne and Jeb followed her.

  Vivienne excused herself so that she could check on the baby. Jeb looked at Martha nervously. “I am sure you wonder what I am doing here.”

  “Actually, if I remember correctly, I told you that you would always be welcome in our home, Jeb. How are things in Wyoming?” Jeb relaxed at Martha's easy- going attitude. Charles appeared with the tea.

  “Things are lonely. I miss Anna very much.” Martha could tell that Jeb was sincere, she felt very sorry for him.

  “Yes, we miss her as well. How long will you be in town?”

  “I thought I would visit with Isaac and Abraham and perhaps discuss some business with Mr. Whittaker. The railroad has a new distribution warehouse in Whittakerville and I thought he might be interested in doing some exporting to the west. It was actually Anna, that arranged the deal with the railroad.” His eyes took on a faraway look, before he added. “I was ill at the time.”

  Martha knew that Jeb's illness was the result of Anna poisoning him, but did not comment. Obviously he didn't want to discuss it. “How interesting, I never thought of Anna as a business woman.” Martha had never seen this side of Anna, perhaps Jeb could tell her more. “What other things did Anna do in Whittakerville?”

  “She organized a suffragette movement, she also helped to organize the prohibition movement in Whittakerville. Anna was very proactive in town politics.” It appeared that Jeb was bragging about Anna. Martha was very surprised at this entire conversation. “Alice Parker owed her job to Anna, she was very grateful. She was one of Anna's dearest friends.” Martha began to feel that she had never known the woman that her daughter had become. She was grateful that Jeb was here to tell her about Anna. She asked him more questions and found his descriptions of Anna's life very interesting.

  Jeremy arrived home and Vivienne, holding Eddie, met him in the foyer. “We have a visitor.” Jeremy gave her a quizzical look. “It's Jeb.” Jeremy was surprised. He kissed the top of Eddie's head, smiling at the little bundle. Composing himself, he and Vivienne entered the parlor.

  “Why Jeb, how nice to see you.” Jeremy offered his hand and Jeb stood up, accepting it. The two men smiled. “Martha, isn't this a nice surprise?” Jeremy looked at Martha not knowing how she was reacting to Jeb's visit, however she seemed very relaxed. H
e took his cue from her.

  “Jeb was just telling me about Anna's business deals in Whittakerville, it seems our daughter was quite the business woman.” Jeremy, surprised, turned to Jeb.

  “Actually, I came to see you Mr. Whittaker. As I told Mrs. Whittaker, the railroad has built a depot and warehouse in Whittakerville and I thought perhaps you might be interested in exporting to the west.” Jeremy was surprised for the second time.

  “It is funny you mention it, because Austin Wells and I were just talking about a trip west to investigate possibilities there. But first, please call us Jeremy and Martha, we are your family, after all.” Jeb was overcome with joy. He sat, staring silently at the family before him. Jeremy and Martha, Vivienne with little Eddie and tears rolled down his cheeks. Embarrassed, he quickly wiped them away, but not before Martha and Jeremy saw them.

  “Let's get the family together for a family dinner. Vivienne can you go to the hospital and get Abraham? Leave Eddie with me. I will send one of the servants to Isaac's farm. This is a wonderful excuse for a party.” Martha rose and started her preparations. Jeb started to protest.

  “Don't worry about it, Jeb, Martha looks for any excuse to have a party. You might as well get used to it. Come on; let's leave the women to their chores. You and I can have a game of billiards and a nice cigar before the entire clan arrives.” Jeb followed Jeremy, never in his life had he felt so welcome.

  Vivienne stared after him, her eyes fixed on the back of his head. He could not believe this reception but suddenly, in the back of his mind, Vivienne's warning rang loud and clear, “I will kill you.” He knew she meant it. He turned and saw her watching him. Vivienne made sure he saw her before she walked away. He remembered how Anna had tried to kill him, he shuttered as a cold chill ran down his spine. He pushed the thought away, following Jeremy to the Billiard room. This is my family at last; I will not do anything to destroy that, thank you Anna. His heart filled with love at the thought of Anna, in spite of everything that had happened. He still loved her. His hand moved to the ring around his neck.