The Courageous Brides Collection

by Johnnie Alexander, Michelle Griep, Eileen Key, Debby Lee, Rose Allen McCauley, Donita Kathleen Paul, Jennifer Uhlarik, Jenness Walker, Renee Yancy

  “Short visit?” Elinor’s heart skipped.

  “Yes, I received a letter from your mother today saying they would send their carriage early next Wednesday, so you can be there for the dinner party she’s hosting that evening. Your father has taken a new young partner at his office.

  Mother and her matchmaking. But she would be home soon. “At least I’ll be able to attend the abolitionist meeting with you again on Tuesday.”

  “I thought that same thing when I read the letter.” Her aunt squeezed her hand.

  Elinor returned the squeeze. “You rest now, and I’ll see you at dinner in an hour.”

  Her aunt nodded as she closed her eyes.

  Elinor tiptoed to her bedroom. Now to open the letter.

  Her hands shook so much it took three tries to break the seal.

  Dear Elinor,

  I was sorry to hear of your departure but happy you wrote to let me know where you were so we could correspond. Please forgive me for my mistake in touching you in public causing this situation. I’m sure you understand, I had no choice. Letting you fall and perhaps be injured is something I could never allow. I feel I have known you forever, although we’ve only been together four short times. Writing will have to suffice until you return, and I pray for that to be hastened.

  Your forlorn friend, William Chandler

  P.S. I will write every day until you return or tell me to stop.

  She held the letter to her chest, then lifted it to her face and pressed her lips against it. He had called her dear. Dear William, who was forlorn at her absence and would write every day. She must write him again tonight.

  On Friday, William awakened thinking he must receive a letter from Elinor today. They’d met only a week ago, but her absence had truly made his heart grow fonder.

  The scent of ham frying wafted under the doorway, causing his mouth to water. He washed his face then entered the kitchen.

  “How are you today?” The doc forked slices of ham onto two plates then added some eggs.

  “Tired. I didn’t sleep well after writing to Elinor.”

  “I can understand it would be hard. Wish I knew how to make it better, but my hands are tied.” Doc took a big bite of eggs.

  William sighed then drank some milk. “You’ve been more than fair with me. I’m learning to trust God because I don’t know what else to do.”

  “Always the best thing to do—let Him lead you.”

  “What’s on the schedule for today? Since I may only be working for you five more days, you might as well keep me busy and help get my mind off my troubles.”

  “I thought we would do rounds together the next few days, so I can teach you as much as possible and also because I enjoy your company. William, if I had my druthers, you’d be my first choice to court my niece.” He reached over and squeezed William’s shoulder.

  “I’ll hate to leave you but will always remember what you’ve taught me about medicine and all your kind ways. I prayed to get the apprenticeship with the doctor God wanted me to learn from, and I’m glad you were the answer to my prayer.”

  “Me, too.” Doc wiped his mouth then stood. “Finish up, and we’ll head out to check on Mrs. Wells and the babe.”

  William gulped down his last two bites then walked toward his room. “I need to mail the letter to Elinor on our way.”

  “Sure.” Doc put the plates in the dry sink, grabbed his hat, and then opened the door.

  As they strolled, they discussed the details on Mrs. Wells and the delivery.

  When they reached the post office, Doc turned toward the livery. “I’ll pick up my buggy and meet you back here in a few minutes.”

  With a wave, William opened the door then handed the postmaster his letter, as he had the past four days.

  The man nodded before glancing up. “Your name William Chandler?”

  “Yes, sir.” His pulse raced. “Do you have a letter for me?”

  “No.”

  William’s heart caved.

  “But I do have two.”

  William stared into the man’s twinkling eyes. “Two letters?”

  “Sure do.” The man pushed the envelopes across the counter.

  He’d been debating what he would do if Elinor never wrote, if he never saw her again. “Thank you, sir.” He sat on the bench beside the post office, tore open both envelopes, then found the letter dated the day after Elinor left, so read it first.

  Dear William,

  I hope you don’t think it too forward of me to suggest our corresponding with each other, but I enjoyed our discussions so much that I hoped we might continue them while I’m away. I still don’t know when I’ll return, so it will give me pleasure knowing we can converse by letter. I attended an abolitionist meeting this afternoon with my aunt. The women here seem less concerned with class and race and want to stop slavery. I desire to help them, and hope to join or begin a similar group in Cynthiana. Are you familiar with the abolitionists? I will share more details of our meeting tomorrow.

  He devoured the second letter, which was longer than the first. She related details of the meeting and how she’d met two new friends who agreed with her about slavery. One lady, a Miss Beecher, lived and taught in Ohio, and she and her family were active in the abolitionist movement.

  Doc pulled the horse and buggy beside the post office. “Got a letter, I see.”

  William waved one in each hand. “Two.” He climbed onto the seat.

  “Better I don’t know any details in case my brother asks, but I can tell they made you happy by the grin on your face.” He shook the reins. “Giddyup now.”

  William pondered the letters the whole way to the Wells’ farm. Elinor was interested in the abolitionist movement, which he and his parents were involved in back in Ohio. This information drew him closer to her in spirit. Had God brought him to Kentucky for this added reason?

  At the farm, upon sight of the day-old babe, a lump formed in his throat. So tiny, yet his cry could wake the whole household. Would he ever hold a baby of his own?

  Next, they checked on the broken arm and broken leg, with Doc pointing out ways to check for healing or infection. Their last stop was with an elderly woman who didn’t have any physical problems. Doc said he stopped by to check on Mrs. Wiglesworth because she didn’t have any family nearby. God, help me be the caring physician Doc is—concerned about the body and also the soul, mind, and spirit.

  On the ride home, William marveled at how much he’d learned in one day. More than many students might learn in a week or month.

  That night over some rabbit stew, he told Doc how much he appreciated all of his lessons.

  “I had a lot of good teachers, too, so I’m glad to pass on some of what I’ve learned. You have the heart of a true physician. Mrs. Wiglesworth would adopt you as her grandson if she could.”

  “She’s a special lady. So spry for ninety-four.”

  Doc drew a paper bag from his pocket. “Yep. She even sent some molasses cookies and told me to keep them a surprise for you.”

  “When did she do that?”

  “When she asked you to go fetch some wood for her stove.”

  “Sneaky lady. I want to stop to see her again before I leave.”

  Doc squinted. “So you’re going to leave?”

  “If I have to. I won’t agree to not seeing or talking to El…er, Miss Peck, so I’d like to check out some of the doctors in the area. Have you contacted any of them?”

  “No, I’ve only written classmates of mine from medical school, and the closest is in Louisville, about ninety miles away, but I’ll try to make a list tonight of other doctors in the area for you.”

  “Thank you. Guess I’d better go write Elinor again since I have two letters to answer.”

  He stayed up until eleven, sharing some general knowledge of abolitionism in Ohio. With a promise to find out as much as he could about abolitionists in the area before she returned, he sealed the letter.

  His heart overflowing with gra
titude, William thanked God for a wonderful day. He fell into a deep, restful sleep, hoping he would dream of Elinor.

  Chapter Six

  Surrounded by many familiar faces at church on Sunday, Elinor thanked God for the people He’d brought into her life over the past week. She hoped to find some antislavery neighbors in Cynthiana when she returned.

  As the congregation stood for the scripture reading, she listened to the minister recite a verse from Psalm 31: “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”

  She’d always been safe, surrounded by parents, neighbors, and slaves who loved her. Had she let her easy life keep her from developing the courage God promised those who hoped in Him? God, please forgive me for my timidity. Grow me in Your courage, strengthen my heart, and use me to serve You and others. In the name of Jesus, amen. These thoughts echoed through the days before her return.

  On Monday, she went shopping to find presents for her parents and enjoyed a last visit with Elizabeth Key. She spent the whole day with Aunt Charlotte on Tuesday, including attending the abolitionist meeting. Afterward, she returned home to pack then enjoy her final meal in Washington.

  “Aunt Charlotte, I can’t tell you what a delight this visit has been. I’ve had my eyes opened to the evils of slavery, and met so many like-minded women who are working for the slaves’ freedom. It’s amazing there are only twenty slaves here out of over four hundred residents. In Harrison County we have more slaves than owners.”

  “Yes, Washington is a special place where people are open-minded, a fact that surprised me when I moved here with Jackson. I love the exchange of ideas and the care we show one another.”

  “I’m praying I can find some people in Cynthiana who feel the same way.”

  “I will add my prayers to yours. How do you think your parents will feel about it?”

  “They might understand. But I’m compelled to do it either way, because I have to stand up for what I believe.”

  “I hope you will proceed slowly and with respect for your parents. I would love to have you here again, but not too soon.” She chuckled.

  “Thanks for the reminder. I’ll write more often. Why don’t you come for a visit?” Elinor clapped her hands. “I invited Elizabeth to visit soon. Why don’t you accompany her?”

  “A lovely idea. I’ll speak with her the next time we get together.” Her aunt squinted and studied Elinor. “You don’t have to answer, but I wondered if a young gentleman could be the reason your parents sent you here?”

  Elinor’s face warmed. “It is. Some gossipy neighbors saw him stop me from a fall and embellished the scene, but Mother took their word over mine.”

  “I see. But don’t you believe your parents love you and have your best interests at heart?”

  “Usually, but they try to restrict my life—who I can see, where I can go, and always insist I be chaperoned outside the house.”

  Aunt Charlotte smiled. “I remember those days, too, my dear, but now I know my parents did want what was best for me.”

  “I’ll try to remember your words.”

  “Are you going to tell me anything about this William? You’re on a first-name basis already?”

  Elinor sighed. “Not in public. Just when we’re alone, and in our letters.”

  “So, you’ve been alone with him?”

  “Shug was always there to chaperone.”

  “I see.” Those two words showed Elinor her aunt didn’t think Shug was a sufficient chaperone.

  “Anything else you wish to tell me?”

  “He’s my uncle John’s apprentice—very smart, and he treats slaves well, and he’s tall and—”

  Aunt Charlotte’s eyes twinkled. “Handsome?”

  “Yes, but he’s so much more.”

  “He sounds like a special young man.”

  “He is.” Elinor fanned herself with her napkin. “What time did Mother say the carriage would be here tomorrow?”

  “Around ten, so you best get ready for good night’s sleep.”

  “Good night.” Elinor climbed the steps, the journey back home heavy on her mind. What will the morrow hold? When will I see William again?

  The rocking of the carriage put Elinor to sleep on the ride home. She awoke when the driver hollered, “Whoa!”

  Pulling the curtain aside, she saw the familiar houses of Cynthiana through a mist of rain. She patted down her hair and smoothed her skirts.

  Joseph guided the carriage close to the back door. He helped her out then steadied her on the wet path.

  Shug greeted her with a broad grin. “Your parents are waiting in the parlor.”

  Elinor hugged her friend then climbed the stairs, aching in places she’d never ached before as she proceeded to the parlor.

  Her mother met her with a hug, followed by extending her arms to separate them. “Let me see you. This is the longest we’ve ever been apart, and I’ve missed you so.”

  Father wrapped her in his arms, too. “We’ve both missed our ray of sunshine. How was your trip?”

  “I slept most of the way, but now I’m sore all over.” She smiled. “I’ve missed both of you, too, and have presents in my trunk.”

  “Shug has been heating water for hours, so she’s ready with your bath and to help you dress for the dinner party tonight. Your father and I can’t wait for you to meet Clyde Humphries, his new associate.”

  “Yes, Mother. I better go then.”

  “I’ll have Joseph carry your trunk up.”

  “Thank you, Father.”

  Elinor climbed the steps, tracing her carvings with a finger. She’d missed her family and her home more than she’d imagined. She’d also missed William. How could she get word to him? Had he received her last letter about her return?

  As she entered the room, Shug gave her a hug. “I’ve been so lonely without you.”

  “Me, too. Is everyone all right here?”

  “Right as rain.” Her friend helped undo her buttons.

  The scent of roses hung heavy in the air.

  Elinor slipped into the steaming tub behind a curtain, pink petals floating in the hot water. “Mmm. This is heavenly. Wake me up if I go to sleep.”

  “I’ll see if your trunk is ready for me to unpack, then come back to wash your hair.”

  Since Shug planned to wash her hair, Elinor slipped under the water up to her ears. Did Shug ever get to enjoy a bath like this? Probably not. When Elinor had her own home, she would make sure of it. The memory of Aunt Charlotte saying a woman couldn’t always do what she wanted in her own home if her husband didn’t approve infuriated her. She’d never get married if that would happen. But William wouldn’t be like that, would he?

  Shug returned, and it took almost half an hour to take down Elinor’s hair and wash it. After all the soap was rinsed out of her hair, Elinor stepped out into the towel Shug held for her. Her body didn’t ache as much. Lord, thank You for Shug and all she does for me. Help me to get through this night without making my parents sorry they brought me home. An hour later, with her hair piled atop her head, and dressed in her newest gown of yellow silk with purple stripes, Elinor descended the staircase.

  Father approached and kissed her cheek. He whispered in her ear, “You look lovely, my dear. Clyde will be enchanted.”

  She hoped not but forced a smile across her face as her father escorted her to the table, where he seated her next to her mother. Had it only been ten days ago she’d sat in this same seat in this room? Her world seemed topsy-turvy, like it would never be the same.

  The man across the table stood as she entered. He was short but nice looking, with dark hair and eyes. His clothes looked as fine as any she’d ever seen.

  Her father introduced them then told Dottie to begin serving.

  “Miss Peck, your father tells me you just returned from a visit to Washington, Kentucky. How did you like it there?”

  “I loved the extended visit with my aunt, but I did miss my parents and home.”<
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  “I was in Washington a few weeks ago, seeking to add a few slaves to my farm. They had a goodly amount, and I was able to buy three young bucks.”

  Her stomach roiled. He spoke of slaves like they were horses to buy. She couldn’t speak.

  Mother said, “I love shopping in Washington.”

  For once, Elinor was glad her mother changed the subject. She hoped Shug or Dottie hadn’t overheard the tasteless comment.

  Father swallowed a bite of roast before nodding to Mr. Humphries, then looked at Elinor. “Mr. Humphries earned his law degree from Harvard University but wanted to move back to this area to take over the family farm. He’ll be an excellent addition to my law office and allow your mother and me to travel more.”

  Mr. Humphries chuckled. “My father prefers to call it our plantation. He owns over two thousand acres in Bourbon County.”

  “Impressive.” Mother smiled. “Elinor, why don’t you tell us what you did while in Washington?”

  Should she tell them about the abolitionists she’d met? Her parents might send her so far way she’d never get back. No. She had to stay in Cynthiana to join or establish a group here. God had revealed the evils of slavery to her for a reason. She would do what He led her to do here.

  She sipped from her water goblet. “Aunt Charlotte had bad headaches part of my stay, so we didn’t get out much. We attended church on Sunday, and I met several of her friends and attended meetings with them.”

  “I hate to hear my dear sister didn’t feel well.”

  “Perhaps she could visit and let Uncle John suggest some remedies for her.”

  Father’s excited voice answered her. “A superb idea. Write to her tomorrow, Clarissa, and tell her to come soon.”

  “Yes, dear.” Mother turned to their guest. “Where will you be staying, Mr. Humphries?”

  “My family also owns land on the west side of Cynthiana, so I’ll stay in the old house there until I’m established enough to build a new house of my own.” He smiled at Elinor.

  She dropped her gaze. When would this meal be over?