A Promised Land

by Kimberly Grist

  “Very good. You want to look at engagement rings.” Without stopping for affirmation, Wilhelm extended his arm toward the opposite end of the jewelry counter. ”Did you have something in mind?” He pulled a key from his pocket and unlocked the case.

  Jake watched as the jeweler took a display on black velvet and laid it before him. “My nieces told me to get something fit for a princess.” He sighed as he looked at the fine assortment of rings. “Everything is so beautiful. I have no idea what she might like.” Jake examined a pearl ring surrounded by small diamonds, then a garnet. He frowned and shook his head. A blue stone surrounded by natural-seed pearls caught his attention. “This one reminds me of the color of her eyes.”

  Mr. Mueller nodded. “It’s a very nice piece. Does she like pearls?”

  “I know she likes purple.” Jake pointed to an amethyst surrounded by diamonds.

  “It’s an extraordinary piece, a diamond cluster meant to resemble a rose. It’s quite beautiful, is it not?”

  Jake placed the ring on the tip of his finger. “I’ll take it.” A chorus of bells and music signaled the top of the hour. Within seconds the sound returned to ticking, and the mechanical gears breathed as they slid against each other. He could imagine Meriwether as a young girl staring at a similar scene. He cleared his throat. “I’m hoping to bring her with me the next time I’m in St. Joseph.”

  “I would love to meet her again.” The jeweler’s smile lit up his face. “When you come next time, you must be prepared to let her choose a clock to take back with you to your new home.”

  “Mr. Mueller, I believe she would love that.” He grinned. “Now if you’ll give me the price, I’d like to have it wrapped to take with me. I’m hoping to catch the afternoon train.”

  CHAPTER 26

  ~o0o~

  “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

  Isaiah 41:10

  Sissy and Sarah sat on either side of their grandmother at dinner, chatting happily. “Grandmama, would you like to go to the creek tomorrow with us? We’re going fishing with Daddy.”

  Mrs. Harrison raised one eyebrow. “No, I don’t believe I’ll join you.” Meriwether’s heart sunk at the droop in Sarah’s shoulders.

  “Zachary can bait your hook if you’re worried about that.” Sissy pierced her vegetables with her fork. “He likes helping.”

  “Perhaps this fall when the weather turns a bit cooler, I can go with you then. What do you think, Sarah?” Mrs. Harrison inclined her head toward her granddaughter.

  Sarah raised her head and beamed. “We can do something inside together.” She placed her finger on her lips. “Miss Walker is helping us cut out squares for a patchwork quilt. She said we could ask you to help us with our stitching since you sew good.” She placed her hand on her grandmother’s arm. “Miss Walker needs help too. She can’t sew a stitch.”

  Luke Harrison coughed. “Sarah, goodness, honey. That’s not polite. I’m sure Miss Walker’s skills are fine.”

  Sissy shook her head. “Nope, they’re not. But that’s okay because God makes us all different. He don’t mind.”

  Mrs. Harrison’s cheeks pinkened. “I’m afraid I’ve been a bad example to you girls. My mother used to scold me about my tongue. She would say if you can’t say something nice, keep quiet.”

  “That’s a hard one to learn.” Sissy nodded solemnly.

  Meriwether placed a napkin over her mouth to cover her smile. “What the girls say is true. I can mend a tear, but otherwise, my skills as a seamstress are nonexistent.” She swallowed. “I very much admire your talent, Mrs. Harrison. Sarah’s and Sissy’s Sunday dresses are beautiful.”

  “We told Miss Walker you’d help her, Grandmama.” Sarah pulled on her lip.

  “Yep, but she said you’d have to be a magician to teach her.” Sissy waved her chicken leg in a circle toward Meriwether. “It would be easier if Grandmama were a fairy godmother, and then she could use her wand, and poof, you could sew.”

  Zachary rolled his eyes. “Pa, the girls have been reading too many fairy tales.”

  Meriwether felt her face flame as Mrs. Harrison examined her. She raised one eyebrow. “I doubt Miss Walker would want my help.”

  “I appreciate the offer, although I must warn you, I’m all thumbs when it comes to a needle and thread.” Meriwether offered a half smile. “When would you like to start?”

  “Why don’t we discuss it in the parlor after dinner?” This time Mrs. Harrison’s smile reached her eyes.

  ~o0o~

  Meriwether put up the last plate from dinner, said a quick prayer for guidance and walked to the front parlor. Her mouth lifted at the sight of the contented family. Light from the late afternoon sky cast a warm glow on the thick whitewashed logs. The girls worked a puzzle at the small table. Zachary sat in a chair next to the window with his father reading, The Swiss Family Robinson.

  Mrs. Harrison relaxed on the upholstered bench in front of the fireplace with a large sewing basket at her feet and an open notebook on her lap. “I’d like to ask you something, Miss Walker.” She patted the upholstered cushion.

  Meriwether felt her heart pound with each tap of her boots as she crossed the room and took a seat. Mrs. Harrison stared at the twelve-foot ceiling and made a motion with her hand from the ceiling joists to the walls. “Would you consider plastering the walls? It would give your home a more modern feel.”

  “While my mother was alive, she and my aunt loved to discuss the possibilities for this room. My uncle loved the wood tones, but my aunt felt that it made the room appear too dark. She and my mother suggested plastering the walls to my uncle. He was adamantly opposed to the idea. Finally, they reached what my uncle called, ‘the great compromise.’ He arranged for the logs to be whitewashed and said if my aunt was dissatisfied, he would agree to the wallcovering. His wish was to see her happy.”

  “She was pleased with the outcome?” Mrs. Harrison shifted her position to examine the room.

  “Yes.” Meriwether smiled. “She told me later she would prefer the plaster, but the fact my uncle was willing to give up something he loved to make her happy was better than any gift he could have given her. Now when I look at these walls, it reminds me of their love for each other.”

  Meriwether turned in surprise at the sound of a sniffle. Mrs. Harrison patted her eyes with a delicate handkerchief. “Your aunt was a wise woman.” She leaned back against the bench and nodded. “Although it’s a little rustic for my taste, I can see the beauty in them.”

  “Years ago, there were curtains on the window and two upholstered chairs at the fireplace. They gave the room a cozy feel. The chairs are upstairs in the attic, but they need reupholstering. I’m terrible at picking out fabrics and such. I find it hard to take a small swatch of fabric and envision how it will look as a wall of curtains.” Meriwether placed her finger on her chin and peered at the double window.

  “I could help you with that.” Mrs. Harrison’s face lit up with a smile. “I have all sorts of swatches we can pick from. I can sketch out some ideas for the windows as well, and let you choose which one you like.” She clapped her hands together, her gray eyes sparkling.

  “I would appreciate the help.” Meriwether let out a relieved sigh as Mrs. Harrison began sketching in her notebook. Thank you, Lord.

  “And don’t be afraid to tell me if you don’t like it.” She held her pencil to her cheek. “To me the fun of designing is the planning and the sketching.”

  “Grandmama,” Zachary called.

  “Yes,” Mrs. Harrison looked at her grandson with a raised brow.

  “Are you going to make some curtains and stuff for in here?” Zach’s mouth formed a thin line.

  “I am if Miss Walker wants me to.” She tilted her head. “Why do you ask?”

  “Does that mean we can’t sit in here unless company is present?” Zachary crossed
his arms. Sissy’s and Sarah’s heads shot up. Luke sat up straight.

  Mrs. Harrison surveyed the room and tapped her pencil on her sketch pad. “Well that is up to Miss Walker, but from my perspective, a bit of material across the windows and some comfortable chairs will only add to the ambiance and make it all the more welcoming.”

  “What’s an am bee ants?” Sissy’s brow furrowed.

  CHAPTER 27

  ~o0o~

  “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth out infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

  Romans 8:26

  After the children left with their father to go fishing, Meriwether invited Mrs. Harrison to the loft. “There’s a cedar chest that has some fabric stored in it. Perhaps we’ll find something that will work for the curtains or the chairs.”

  Mrs. Harrison huffed as she took the stairs. “Goodness, I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to this heat.” She waved her hand in front of her face. “But I’m excited to see what treasures you have stored up here. The girls have already told me about your princess dress.”

  Meriwether opened the window. “Hopefully the breeze should help cool things off a bit.” She knelt and opened the chest and removed several yards of linen, then smiled. “This is what I wanted you to see.” Meriwether lifted a bolt of a champagne fabric with floral-accent colors.

  “Why, that’s beautiful. I’ll need to measure the windows to get an idea of how much is needed, then go from there.” Mrs. Harrison ran her hand along the fabric. “Or you could use it to reupholster the chairs.”

  Meriwether lifted another bolt from the cedar chest. “How did you learn to sew? Did your mother teach you?”

  “My mother taught me to draw, but my grandmother was the seamstress in the family.” Mrs. Harrison sat on the other trunk. “This must be the one that belonged to the pirate.”

  Meriwether giggled. “The girls certainly seem convinced it did. Sissy was so disappointed when it didn’t contain rum.”

  Mrs. Harrison smiled. “I’d like to apologize for the things I said to you. It was uncalled for.” Her lips pressed together. “I was convinced that you were a gold digger, and when I saw how much the children loved you, I thought you were using them to lure Jake in. You wouldn’t be the first woman to try something like that and, well, I’m sorry.”

  “Jake was suspicious of me as well at first. But I have no intention of hurting your son or your grandchildren.” Meriwether closed the lid on the trunk.

  “The children are happier than I’ve seen them since their mother died. You obviously care for them very much. Zachary told me about you taking him to see your father to get his glasses.” She blinked rapidly. “They’re all so proud of how their reading skills have improved.” She glanced at her hands in her lap. “I hope that you will forgive me and that we can be friends.”

  Meriwether nodded. “I’d like that.”

  “Good.” Mrs. Harrison rose. “And since we’re now friends, I hope you don’t mind if I go downstairs to see if I can find something to wear that’s a little cooler.”

  Meriwether laughed. “Certainly, go ahead. I’m going to stay up here a little longer. There’s another trunk that I’d like to go through.”

  ~o0o~

  Jake placed his bag by the kitchen door with a thud. Mrs. Baker sat at the table peeling potatoes. “It’s about time you dragged yourself back here.” She chuckled.

  “What are you talking about? I’m a day early.” Jake reached for a cookie. “It’s so quiet. Where is everyone?”

  Mrs. Baker pulled out a roast pan. “Your brother took the children fishing. Your mother and Meriwether are upstairs in the loft looking through the cedar chest.”

  Jake’s jaw dropped. “My mother went in an attic voluntarily? With Meriwether?”

  “I heard that.” Mrs. Harrison glided into the room wearing a dark walking skirt and a white high-collar blouse. “Good morning, son. It’s good to see you.” She stood on tiptoe and kissed his cheek.

  “Who are you, and what have you done with my mother?” Jake patted her back.

  “I had to change into something cooler. This weather is a lot to get used to.” She touched his arm. “Come, talk with me for a few minutes. There’s something I want to discuss before this house erupts with children.”

  Cookie placed a lid on top of the roast pan. “The coffee’s ready if you’d like a cup, cookies too.” She wiped her hands on her apron, then placed two mugs on the table. “Help yourself. I’m headed to the smokehouse.”

  Mrs. Harrison spread her skirts regally around her feet. “I suppose I’m going to have to become accustomed to dressing like this. It’s certainly more comfortable.” She poured two cups of coffee.

  Jake rubbed his chin. “What is this about? Whatever it is, shoot straight and no game playing.”

  His mother let out a sigh. “You will hear soon enough. But I should be the one to tell you. I was extremely rude and insulting to Miss Walker.”

  Jake pinched his nose. “What did you say?”

  “That’s not important.” She waved her hand. “Your brother has scolded me quite severely. I’ve been on my best behavior since, and I have apologized and she has accepted.” His mother flashed a bright smile.

  His gut wrenched. “Where is Meriwether?”

  “She’s in the attic.” His mother’s brow furrowed. “We were up there together exploring. But it was hot, so I came back downstairs.”

  “You didn’t lock the door on your way down, did you?” Jake clenched his fists.

  “Don’t be silly.” His mother’s lips pressed together. “We’re going to be good friends, I’m sure. She is a lovely girl, and I wanted you to know I approve of your choice.”

  “You approve of my choice?” Jake gripped his cup. “I don’t believe you.”

  “Well, you should. I like her very much, which is why I want to ask you a question.” His mother’s eyebrows drew together. “Tell me truthfully. Are you having financial difficulties?”

  “No.” Jake clenched his jaw. “Why do you ask?”

  “I couldn’t help but wonder. Meriwether is sweet and kind. I like her and would hate to see her hurt.” His mother smiled sweetly. “What is your motivation for marrying her? Is it the water rights?”

  “What is my motivation? Look, Mother, I’m twenty-eight years old, and I’ve lived on my own for ten years. It’s none of your business what my motivation is.” He rubbed his jaw. “But I love her and want her to be my wife. I haven’t asked her yet, and unless you’ve said something to make her question my feelings, I believe she’ll say yes.”

  Jake reached into his vest pocket, pulled out the ring and opened the box. “What do you think?”

  His mother’s hand covered her mouth. “It’s beautiful.” She raised one eyebrow. “You don’t think it’s too extravagant? She seems to be a simple girl. Something a bit plainer might suit her better.”

  “Mother I’m not putting up with your shenanigans.” Jake snapped the ring box closed. “This is the second time I’ve said it. Tell me what’s on your mind.”

  “When I read your letters, I thought you might be painting a better picture of Miss Walker than reality. At first, I thought she must be a gold digger.” She studied Jake over her cup. “Now I’m afraid she may be the victim in all this.”

  “How so?”

  “She’s a young woman on her own. Zachary told me about her father.” She pursed her lips. “He was concerned about her, and he asked me to be nice.” She cleared her throat. “At first I was angry that my nine-year-old grandson would call my manners into question. But when I looked into his eyes and saw his compassion, I was ashamed of myself.” She reached for a cookie and took a tiny bite. “I’ve turned over a new leaf. I want to be a better person, and right now I want to make certain you are not taking advantage of Miss Walker.”

  Jake’s mouth opened, then closed. “Are you sure you’r
e not looking for some type of drama? Things aren’t exciting enough for you, so you make things up? How about if I just tell you what you want to hear?” Jake stood and paced the kitchen floor. “The only reason I would ever consider marrying a woman like Miss Walker is because she owns the property next to mine. She’s young, strong, not bad-looking and should be able to provide me with a house full of kids. There, are you satisfied?”

  His mother’s eyes widened and she pointed her finger. The back stairs squeaked. Meriwether’s face was pale. Her blue eyes flashed as she shoved bolts of fabric into his arms, then raced out the door.

  CHAPTER 28

  ~o0o~

  “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”

  Romans 8:28

  Meriwether pushed open the back door, lifted her skirts and ran from the house. Hot tears ran down her cheeks. I do not want to give them the satisfaction of seeing me cry.

  “Wait, Meriwether,” Jake’s voice called.

  “I most certainly will not.” She stomped across the path toward Mr. and Mrs. Baker’s home.

  “Please, I can explain.” Jake’s hand caught her arm.

  Meriwether’s skirts swirled as she jerked away. “There’s nothing to be said.”

  “I’ve got plenty to say, and you’re going to listen.” Jake stepped in front of her.

  “Is that so?” Meriwether skirted around him and continued along the dusty path. Her heart ached, she had a stitch in her side and she wanted desperately to hear Jake’s explanation. But I can't imagine anything he could say that would justify his actions.