Madeline decided to follow Bridget’s advice and wait for the Bleasdells. However, while she waited, Jarret emerged from the church and sauntered her way.
“Good morning, Miss Maddie. How are you today? You rushed off so quickly before, I did not have the chance to speak with you.”
As he was coming out of the church, Christopher caught sight of Jarret speaking with Maddie. He walked slowly so as to observe the exchange between the two in the event that Madeline should have need of his assistance.
“If you will excuse me, I am waiting for Mr. and Mrs. Bleasdell,” she said, as she turned away.
“Oh come now, Maddie. I will keep you company while you wait,” insisted Jarret.
Madeline was quickly becoming cross with Jarret as she attempted, once again, to be rid of him. “Jarret, I beg you excuse me. I have not the need of your company. I must be going.”
“I shall escort you home,” asserted Jarret, in an annoyed tone of voice.
By now, Christopher was becoming angry at Jarret’s unwanted advances toward Maddie so he decided it was time to come to her defense. “Good morning, Maddie. May I escort you home? The Bleasdells have invited me to dine with you this afternoon.”
Jarret was fuming at the sight of Christopher and Maddie. “Excuse me, Mr. Osgood, but Maddie already has an escort.”
“I beg your pardon, Jarret, but I have not consented to having you for an escort,” replied Madeline. “Furthermore, seeing as Christopher has been invited by the Bleasdells to dine with us today, there is no need.”
“Well, I shall take my leave of you then,” replied Jarret angrily.
“I am obliged to you, Christopher,” said Maddie, with her heart beating loudly. “My own attempts to be rid of him failed miserably. At no time have I ever been desirous of his company. Moreover, after what he has done to you, he is the last person in the world I would wish to have as an escort. Well anyway, it is so good to see you. I was sorry to have missed you on your last visit to the Bleasdell’s.”
“I am happy to be of assistance,” replied Christopher with a smile. “I was sorry to have missed seeing you as well. A lot has transpired since we last met. As you say, it is plain to see that Jarret has not been dissuaded by the outcome of his attempts to be rid of me.”
“Yes, he has always been presumptuous when it comes to me. I do not understand his persistence, as I have never encouraged it. But let us talk about something other than Jarret, shall we? Have you decided to settle in Salisbury?” inquired Maddie.
“Yes, in fact Mr. Carr spoke to me, only this morning, informing me that the town has granted me a plot of land for a home and another to farm,” replied Christopher, with a happy tone in his voice. “I shall continue working for Mr. Carr with his ferry service and shipbuilding; however, I shall soon have my own home and land here in town.”
Madeline was so filled with happiness at the thought of Christopher’s decision to remain in Salisbury, she could scarcely keep from expressing it.
Christopher and Madeline were strolling along so slowly that Mr. Bleasdell, Elizabeth, and Henry soon caught up and joined them for the rest of the walk home.
“Christopher, we are so glad that you could come home with us today,” said Mr. Bleasdell, patting Christopher on the shoulder.
“We shall truly enjoy your company, for we have so little time with you,” said Elizabeth.
“It was kind of you to invite me,” replied Christopher.
Madeline and Christopher conversed easily throughout the afternoon. Every now and then, as they caught each other’s eye, Mr. Bleasdell and Elizabeth smiled at the sight of the two of them looking so happy together. However, soon it was time to set off for the evening service.
I wish this day would never end, thought Madeline, as they strolled along. She was content in knowing that Christopher understood clearly that she had no affection for Jarret.
“Thank you for the lovely afternoon,” said Christopher, with contentment.
As they approached the church, Bridget caught sight of Madeline coming toward her in the company of Christopher. Barely able to contain her excitement as Madeline came near, she said with delight, “Good afternoon, Madeline, Mr. Osgood.”
“And to you,” replied Christopher.
“Maddie, I had a very enjoyable day,” said Christopher, with a smile. “I hope to see you again very soon.”
“Thank you, Christopher. It was a good day for me, as well,” replied Maddie.
Bridget and Madeline gave each other knowing glances as they entered the church, anxious to be able to discuss the events of the day. But for now, it would have to wait.
Jarret, upon observing Maddie entering the church, reasoned with himself that he must make a show of being friendly to Christopher Osgood if he was to have a chance with Maddie. He also thought that if he could get close to her again, he may well convince her that he was only trying to protect her and the rest of the town from danger when he made the accusations against Christopher Osgood.
Following Reverend Worcester’s sermon, as he conversed with many of his parishioners, Jarret strolled up. Being a good and forgiving man, he decided to welcome him in spite of the fact that he had tried to have him removed from his post.
“Good evening, Jarret. It was so good of you to join us today.”
“And to you, sir, and thank you. I am happy to be here,” replied Jarret shamelessly.
Once outside, Jarret waited for Christopher until he emerged from the church, at which time, Jarret came up to speak with him. “Good evening, Mr. Osgood. How did you like the sermon? The reverend can surely preach a good message.”
Christopher wondered why Jarret seemingly had waited for him. What is more, why was he being so cordial? “Good evening, Jarret,” acknowledged Christopher, quickly moving past.
Madeline and Bridget observed the exchange and thought it odd. Bridget reasoned that Jarret must now own to being completely wrong about Christopher, to which Madeline responded, “I am convinced that Jarret was always aware that what he said about Christopher was a lie, and I suspect he surely has some twisted plan for his cordiality.”
Chapter 13
A New Man in Town/Haven’t I Seen You Before?
* * *
Madeline and Bridget were coming out of Emma’s house one day when they were met by a young stranger who introduced himself to them as Anthony Hall. He was an amiable and handsome young man who spoke to them in a friendly manner.
“You may call me Anthony, as I dislike being addressed as Mr. Hall,” insisted Anthony. “I am honored to make the acquaintance of two such lovely young ladies.”
“How do you do,” replied Madeline. “I am Madeline Pike and this is Mrs. Bridget Dudly. You must be new to our town.”
“Yes, I have just arrived from Norwich, England. I am lodging over at the town ordinary,” replied Anthony.
Just then, Madeline caught the eye of Jarret who had begun to move in their direction. I do hope he does not come over while we are making a new acquaintance, thought Madeline.
However, his direction changed rather quickly once he locked eyes with Anthony.
Madeline found this to be a rather strange occurrence, as Jarret usually saw other men as a challenge, not something from which to run. Brushing away any thought of Jarret, Madeline returned to her conversation with Anthony and Bridget.
“Are either of you acquainted with the man who was headed this way a moment ago?” inquired Anthony. “I am only asking because he looks very familiar.”
“His name is Jarret Ormsby,” replied Bridget disgustedly.
“Oh,” said Anthony, realizing that this was, indeed, a former acquaintance. He decided, however, that for now it might be best not to mention anything more about it.
“It was very nice to have met you, but I must be off,” said Anthony. “I hope to see you again when there is time to become better acquainted.” With that, he headed off down the road.
Bridget and Madeline remarked on what a hand
some and pleasant young man they thought Anthony to be. With his dark hair and tall stature, he was sure to draw the interest of many a young lady in town. As they were walking along speculating about which of the ladies might be most suitable, Madeline remembered the look that passed between Jarret and Anthony.
After stopping for a moment, Madeline remarked, “There was one very odd thing that happened back there, Bridget. Did you happen to notice how quickly Jarret changed direction after seeing Anthony?”
“Indeed. I thought we would have to put up with Jarret’s irritating presence, but when I looked again, he was gone,” replied Bridget. “Jarret has never allowed another man to speak with you without getting in the middle of it. It was so unlike him to behave in that way.”
“You are right. He is usually so self-assured and unyielding when in my company. Moreover, the way he continues on as though what he has done to Christopher is inconsequential is so infuriating,” Madeline responded, visibly frustrated.
“Precisely. He is truly shameless,” replied Bridget.
“Another thing, Bridget, did you happen to notice that Anthony inquired after his name?” asked Madeline. “It seemed, to me, he may have recognized him. Perhaps we will find out more when Anthony is not in a hurry to be somewhere.”
“Maybe you are right,” replied Bridget. “Well, I must be going, as John is expecting me at home.”
“Goodbye, Bridget,” said Madeline, as she, too, set off for home.
***
The next day, Christopher and Anthony happened to meet down by the river just as Christopher was climbing out of Charles Banister’s canoe.
“Good day to you,” said Anthony. “My name is Anthony Hall, and whom do I have the pleasure of addressing?”
“Christopher Osgood. It is nice to make your acquaintance. I have not seen you around here before, though I have not been here long myself. Are you new to the town?”
“Yes, I have recently come over from Norwich,” replied Anthony. “Are you just returning from Carr’s Island?”
“I am, and this is my good friend, Charles Banister,” replied Christopher. “He carries me out to the island and back.”
“Nice to make your acquaintance, Mr. Banister,” said Anthony.
“I am headed into town,” said Christopher. “Anthony, I hope to see you again, and I thank you, Charles. I shall see you in the morning.”
“Goodbye, Christopher. I shall be here,” replied Charles.
“Well, Christopher,” said Anthony, “I was just having a look around. I am heading back into town myself so I shall accompany you, if you do not mind.”
“I would appreciate the company,” replied Christopher.
The two conversed over many things concerning the town as the strolled along. Christopher also informed Anthony of his work on the implementation of the ferry service and the shipbuilding, both of which he informed were in the employ of Mr. Carr.
“I have had various professions,” replied Anthony. “A shipwright, fisherman, and house carpenter, just to name a few. Can you tell me; are they in need of more men for the completion of the ferry service and the shipbuilding?”
“Perhaps Mr. Carr could do with another man. I shall make the introductions, if you like,” replied Christopher. “In the meantime, where are you staying?”
“At the ordinary in town,” he replied. “I hope, in the near future, to purchase a piece of land. Only yesterday, I made the acquaintance of a man over at the ordinary with knowledge of an available property. Moreover, if I were to secure that one in particular, it has a house already situated upon it. It seems that the previous occupants have returned to England. It would certainly save me a lot of work not to have to build a house.”
“Mr. Carr is on the board of selectmen,” replied Christopher. “He may be of assistance in that as well.”
The two men had become easy acquaintances by the time they reached town.
“Anthony, would it be convenient for me to come by the ordinary in the morning?” inquired Christopher.
“For sure,” replied Anthony.
“I shall take you to meet Mr. Carr tomorrow, then.”
“I am much obliged,” replied Anthony.
The two men parted company with Christopher continuing on to his property. He could scarcely believe that he had his own lot on which to build a home. He began to think of his beloved Hannah, knowing how happy she would have been. He also wondered if he would have been instructing children with Hannah, by now, had she survived.
Back at the ordinary, Anthony, again, caught sight of Jarret. However, just as before, he ducked out of sight.
As acquaintances from the same hometown, I should think I deserve at least a cordial greeting, thought Anthony. Once more, he began to wonder why Jarret was so obviously avoiding him unless the rumors he had heard back in England, regarding Jarret, were true.
Morning came, and Christopher, as promised, was at the ordinary to meet Anthony.
“Good morning, Anthony, are you ready to set off for the island?”
“Absolutely. I am obliged to you for taking the time to do this for me,” replied Anthony.
The two men made their way to the river where Charles was waiting to convey them over to the island. “Good morning, gentlemen,” said Charles.
“And to you,” replied Christopher. “Anthony may require a return trip earlier than my regular time of departure.”
“Very well, as I have business with Mr. Carr, I had planned to remain a while,” replied Charles.
Upon their arrival to Mr. Carr’s estate, Christopher made the introductions. Mr. Carr was genuinely pleased to make Anthony’s acquaintance and assured him that he would have need of him for some of his ventures. He also assured him that he would assist him in his purchase of a property, as it would require the town’s approval before any land might be purchased; after which, Anthony met again with Charles for his return trip. “Charles, this has been a good day.”
“Did things turn out well with Mr. Carr?” asked Charles.
“Indeed. In view of the fact that he has work for me and shall assist me in the purchase of a property, I would say it went very well,” replied Anthony.
“A very successful day, then,” smiled Charles.
Back at the Carr estate, Christopher and Mr. Carr were conversing about Anthony and his diverse work experience. Mr. Carr remarked, “Anthony is a man of many talents. I am sure he will prove to be indispensable to me.”
Christopher was pleased with how things had turned out for Anthony. Though he had not known him long, he thought he would enjoy having him around.
“I must set off for town, as there is still so much to be done on my own property. I am not complaining, mind you,” Christopher said with a chuckle.
“Yes, I too have many things to do today,” replied Mr. Carr.
Chapter 14
An Unexpected Blessing
* * *
Madeline and Elizabeth were busily working around the house when Mr. Bleasdell stopped off home to verify that Elizabeth was presently in good health. He had been concerned about her, as she had not been quite herself as of late.
“Are you feeling well today, my dear?” asked Mr. Bleasdell, with concern.
“Just a little tired,” replied Elizabeth, with a smile. “Do not be concerned, as it is, no doubt, simply my age catching up with me.”
“If you are sure. However, if you begin to feel poorly, send Madeline to find me, and I shall go for the doctor,” he replied, while kissing her on the brow.
“Do not worry. I shall come straight away if we have need of you,” assured Madeline.
Later in the day, while churning the butter, Elizabeth became a bit faint. Madeline caught sight of her just as she was about to collapse. She quickly caught her arm and helped her to a chair.
“You must take a seat and leave off from doing any work for the rest of the day. I am going to fetch Mr. Bleasdell,” said Madeline, with a look of concern.
“M
adeline,” said Elizabeth. “There is nothing at all to be concerned about. I am not ill. I have not informed Mr. Bleasdell of this, as yet, for I wished to be sure before mentioning it. But I believe that I am with child, as I am having similar feelings to when I was expecting Henry.”
“Oh Elizabeth, that is wonderful news!” exclaimed Madeline. “You must not overdo. There is not a thing, in the way of chores or taking care of Henry, that I cannot do in your stead.”
“Madeline, indeed I may be in need of some assistance with certain of my duties, but as for the better part of them, I shall function as usual,” replied Elizabeth.
“As you wish, though, I shall be keeping a close watch to be sure that you are not burdening yourself with too much,” replied Madeline.
The following day, Madeline set off for Emma Foster’s home to exchange a portion of Elizabeth’s newly churned butter for some of Emma’s freshly baked bread. Madeline was happy to be doing something to lighten Elizabeth’s load. However, an additional purpose for her visit was to seek advice from Emma regarding Elizabeth’s condition, as Emma was presently serving and had served as a midwife for many years. As such, she had delivered many a child during that time.
Upon arriving at Emma’s, Madeline was greeted in Emma’s usual affectionate and friendly manner. As she was most anxious to discuss Elizabeth’s condition with Emma, she hurried inside. Madeline knew that Elizabeth did not yet wish to share her news with their general acquaintance, but she was sure it would be all right for Emma to know.
“Good morning, Emma. I am so happy to see you today. I have with me the butter from Elizabeth.”
“Thank you, Madeline. I have some bread cooling on the table for you to take back with you. And how are you today, my dear?” asked Emma, sensing that Madeline had something on her mind.
“Well, Emma, I am in need of your counsel on a matter, the nature of which is confidential,” replied Madeline.
Lost Love and Shipwrecked: Madeline Pike Finds Hope in the New Land Page 8
