These Tangled Threads

by Tracie Peterson

  “Yes. It was a strange visit. He came in talking as though he was anxious to spend time with Theona, but he didn’t stay long.”

  “It hasn’t even been a week since he last called upon you, has it?”

  “No,” she replied while pulling a stack of plates from the shelf and then gathering silverware in her other hand.

  “Papa upthtairs,” Theona said as her mother walked into the dining room to set the table.

  Naomi turned on her heel. “No. Papa’s gone home. He’s not upstairs.”

  “Papa upthtairs,” the child repeated.

  “No, Theona! Your papa has gone home.”

  “She likely means that he was upstairs earlier—before he left the house,” Dr. Ketter explained as he helped himself to a sweet pickle.

  Naomi turned her attention to the doctor, a startled look etched upon her face. “What? Thaddeus was upstairs?”

  Theona’s head bobbed again. “Papa upthtairs.”

  Naomi stooped down in front of the little girl. “Why was Papa upstairs?”

  The child gave her mother a winsome smile. “Blankie,” she said.

  “The blanket chest—my money,” Naomi cried, racing toward the stairs. “He’s stolen my money. I know it!” she shouted.

  Theona whimpered, tears threatening to spill down her cheeks at any moment. Daughtie sat down and opened her arms to the child, lifting her into a warm embrace. Theona snuggled close and rested her plump cheek against Daughtie’s chest.

  Naomi returned to the dining room, a faraway look in her eyes. “He took all of my money—even the leather pouch.”

  “You must go to the police,” Daughtie encouraged.

  “Absolutely. I’ll go with you and confirm that I saw him upstairs while you were outdoors,” Dr. Ketter said. “I’ll get my coat.”

  “No. Wait. I don’t want to go to the police. Let’s have dinner.”

  Daughtie stared at the older woman in disbelief. “But, Mrs. Arnold—”

  “No, I’ll not go,” she interrupted. “I don’t want to discuss this any further,” she said, casting a glance at Theona.

  Daughtie nodded. “As you wish.”

  “Ruth said she wouldn’t be here for supper, so we may as well eat,” Mrs. Arnold said. “I’ll get the bread.”

  Except for the sound of clattering dishes and an occasional word from Theona, the four of them ate their meal in silence. Ivan excused himself as soon as he’d finished eating a piece of pie and headed back down the hall to his office.

  Daughtie took a sip of tea and glanced over the top of her cup at Mrs. Arnold. “You really should go to the police,” she softly urged.

  Theona scooted down from her chair, marching off to entertain herself in the other room.

  “I haven’t forgotten the years of abuse I suffered at his hand. He’s a cruel man—no one knows that better than I do. I still bear the scars from his beatings. If I go to the police and he convinces them it’s all a lie, he’ll retaliate. I’m not willing to take the chance that he’ll return and harm Theona.”

  Daughtie longed for words to comfort Mrs. Arnold, but none came to her. “I understand. You must do what’s best for both you and Theona. I hadn’t considered that he might strike out against Theona—or you,” she said, taking Naomi’s hand in her own. “I don’t want you or Theona placed in harm’s way.”

  Mrs. Arnold gave her a faint smile. “I don’t understand Thaddeus. I never have. It’s abundantly clear that he came here to steal from me, yet he spent a great deal of time telling me about a new business venture. He seemed genuinely excited, going into detail about a Mr. Thurston who’d come from England to encourage his participation in this innovative enterprise. None of this makes any sense.”

  “Thurston? William Thurston?” Daughtie’s mind reeled with Bella’s tale of William Thurston escaping before the authorities could apprehend him. Apparently he was nearby, possibly in Lowell. She must get word to Bella and Taylor.

  CHAPTER 27

  Daughtie remained in the kitchen with Mrs. Arnold and Theona until the older woman composed herself.

  “There’s really nothing anyone can do, and there’s no need for you to remain here in the kitchen with me,” Naomi said. “You go on. I’ve got dishes and mending I need to complete before bedtime, and Theona’s here to keep me company, aren’t you, dearest?”

  The little girl smiled at her mother while clapping her hands. “I will help,” she said.

  Theona’s sincere offer caused Daughtie to smile. “If you’re certain you don’t need me, I believe I’ll call on Bella and Taylor Manning. We had time for only a short visit last evening,” she explained.

  “What a pleasant coincidence,” Dr. Ketter commented.

  Daughtie turned toward Dr. Ketter, who was now standing in the doorway of his office.

  “I’m preparing to leave for the Farnsworth residence, also. Taylor and his bride do reside with Mr. and Mrs. Farnsworth, don’t they?”

  “Yes. Their new home isn’t completed yet,” she replied. “Is someone ill?”

  “No, at least not that I’m aware of. They extended an invitation to call, saying they would like to meet me.”

  “I see. I’m surprised they’re entertaining so soon after their arrival home. Perhaps I should call upon Bella some other time.”

  “Nonsense! Mr. and Mrs. Farnsworth merely wish to become acquainted since they find themselves without a doctor now that Dr. Barnard has retired. I’m sure your friend will be delighted to have you visit, and I’ll be pleased to have you accompany me,” he said with a bright smile. “I was planning on walking because it’s such a fine evening, but I could fetch a carriage if you’d prefer.”

  “I’m accustomed to walking. Besides, this is the first day we’ve been without rain this week. The spring weather will make for an enjoyable stroll,” Daughtie said, unable to think of any excuse to avoid Dr. Ketter’s company. After all, it was imperative she inform Bella and Taylor of William Thurston’s activity.

  Dr. Ketter was smiling profusely as they crossed the street, careful to lead her around several large mud-filled puddles. “I’m pleased to have some time alone with you. Sometimes I wonder if you’re intentionally attempting to avoid me,” he said, hesitating and obviously hoping she’d reject his idea.

  His comment mirrored her feelings, yet she knew to simply agree with his remark would be insensitive. Finally she settled upon a vague reply. “I keep very busy with a number of activities.”

  “I may consider joining into some of those activities in order to spend time with you,” he said with a bright smile.

  Clearly Dr. Ketter wasn’t easily deterred, and Daughtie wished she had given a more direct reply after all. “The groups to which I belong are for women,” she curtly stated.

  “I was purely jesting with you. I’m hopeful you won’t make it quite that difficult for me to call upon you.”

  “I have no time for gentlemen callers,” she answered, attempting to hide her irritation. She wanted the discussion of her free time to end. “You might consider directing your attention toward Ruth. As I’ve said before, I believe the two of you would have much in common, and she has expressed a keen interest in attending several lectures that will soon be presented in Lowell.”

  They stopped while permitting an approaching carriage to pass, then began crossing the street to the Farnsworth home. Ivan gazed down at her. “Is it truly your desire that I pursue Ruth, or are you being coy? It’s sometimes difficult to discern if women are saying exactly what they mean.”

  “I cannot speak for other women, but you may take me at my word. While you appear to be a fine, upstanding man, I am confident that you and I have very little in common. I have not pursued your interest but rather have tried to make my disinterest more than apparent. I believe if anyone is to blame for this, it is Ruth for her encouragement of your attention toward me. I am certain she had the best intentions, for she worries after me like a mother hen; however, she was misguided in this pursu
it and I am afraid we have both suffered for it.” She paused, eyeing him quite sternly. “So please be assured, I am not attempting to lure you with game playing. There is no reason for you to continue pursuing me. I will not change my mind.”

  “Well, that was certainly clear and concise,” he replied dejectedly. “I’ll keep my distance.”

  His disappointment was evident in his voice, but Daughtie knew that this time she could show no mercy. One kind word and he would resume his pursuit of her. “Here we are,” she said, turning up the steps to the Farnsworth house as he followed close on her heels. Her knock was answered by a young girl with a mischievous grin on her face.

  “I’m Elinor. Who are you?” the bundle of energy asked.

  “Why, it’s so nice to meet you, Elinor,” Daughtie answered. “I’m Miss Daughtie Winfield, and this is Dr. Ivan Ketter. What do you think of America so far?”

  “I think it rains all the time!” Elinor laughed as she let the guests into the house and turned to find Addie and John waiting patiently behind her. Bella joined the group, and soon Addie and John whisked Dr. Ketter into the formal parlor for a visit while leaving her to chat with Bella.

  A clap of thunder sounded overhead. “What’s wrong, Daughtie? Is the storm disturbing to you? You’ve appeared anxious ever since you arrived this evening,” Bella said while pouring a cup of tea.

  “It’s not the storm that’s upset me. I’ve news to share with you—about William Thurston.”

  “William Thurston?”

  Daughtie startled at the deep male voice that echoed her words. “Oh, Taylor! You surprised me,” she sighed.

  “I’m sorry, but hearing William Thurston’s name certainly captured my attention. You have news of him?”

  “Yes,” Daughtie said while giving a quick nod of her head. “Thaddeus Arnold was in Lowell earlier today. He said he came to call upon his daughter, Theona. In the midst of Mr. Arnold’s visit, he mentioned he had entered into a business venture with someone who had recently sailed from England. As he continued with the story, he mentioned that William Thurston is his newly arrived business partner.”

  Taylor appeared stunned. “He told you this?”

  “No, he told Mrs. Arnold and she passed along the information to me.”

  “Do you know where Thaddeus makes his home?”

  “A village in New Hampshire, but I don’t recall the name. I can ask Mrs. Arnold. I think she’ll cooperate. However, she’s fearful of retribution from Mr. Arnold should she go to the police.”

  “She should be more fearful of the company her former husband is associating with. Did he tell her anything more?” Taylor inquired.

  “I didn’t finish my story,” Daughtie said. “While Mr. Arnold was at the boardinghouse, he went upstairs to Mrs. Arnold’s bedroom and helped himself to her savings. I encouraged her to report the matter, but she wouldn’t.”

  “She’s certain he absconded with the money?”

  “She didn’t actually see him with it, but when Dr. Ketter was coming out of his office, he noticed Mr. Arnold upstairs. The rains had abated, and Mrs. Arnold was outdoors hanging laundry. There was no reason for Mr. Arnold to be in her room except to steal,” Daughtie declared.

  “Did I hear my name mentioned?” Ivan inquired as he entered the room, flanked by Addie and John.

  “I mentioned your observation of Mr. Arnold in the upstairs rooms today,” Daughtie replied.

  “Seems William Thurston may be in New Hampshire or possibly even here in Lowell,” Taylor told his uncle as the group joined them.

  “Do tell,” John said, his face flushed with excitement. “How did you come by this piece of information?”

  “Daughtie,” Taylor replied. “Tell him what you related to me,” he instructed.

  Daughtie repeated the story, with Dr. Ketter interrupting to add a piece of information from time to time. John’s interest was obviously piqued as she related details of William Thurston’s dealings with Thaddeus Arnold.

  “I’m not at all certain I understand why you’re all so interested in this William Thurston,” Dr. Ketter remarked when Daughtie had finished speaking.

  “He was a primary participant in thefts and kidnappings that took place here in Lowell three years ago. In fact, he was the instigator who stayed behind the scenes, ordering his henchmen to conduct the reprehensible deeds,” John explained.

  Daughtie leaned forward, peeking around Bella. “Ruth and Bella were both among those who were kidnapped. Fortunately, they were rescued, thanks in large part to Taylor and Mr. Farnsworth,” she said, giving both men a charming smile.

  Dr. Ketter appeared aghast at the mention of the kidnappings. “And this Thurston fellow managed to escape before being brought to justice?”

  “Quite so. But with a modicum of good fortune and careful planning, we may be able to detain him before he’s able to slip out of our grasp. To be frank, I’m astounded he’s remained in the country this long. Of course, we alerted the police in Boston. They agreed to assist by checking the manifests of passengers sailing to England. If he became aware of police involvement, he may have decided to wait until activity quiets around the docks,” John surmised. “I think we should talk to Mrs. Arnold, learn exactly where Thaddeus resides, and pay him an unexpected visit.”

  “Exactly!” Taylor agreed. “I’ll get my hat.”

  Daughtie rose from her chair. “Please wait. After today’s events, I think your appearance at the door may upset Mrs. Arnold.”

  “Possibly,” John agreed. “And the hour is growing late for calling.”

  Taylor stopped midstep. “Perhaps you could talk to her in the morning, Daughtie. Bella tells me you’re attending church with us. You could bring us word when we meet.”

  “I’ll do my best,” she cautiously replied.

  John nodded. “She may still be up and about when you arrive home. I understand the mills will be closed Monday and Tuesday, possibly longer, if these rains don’t subside. With these spring freshets flooding the mill pond, it may be impossible to regulate the waterpower for even longer if we don’t soon get some relief from the downpours.”

  “I didn’t know a decision had been made. Mr. Gault sent word to each foreman late today simply advising the possibility of a shutdown existed,” she said.

  “I should think all of you girls would be pleased to have a little time away from the mill,” John commented.

  “For some of us the break from work is a blessing; for others, the loss of pay caused by the spring freshets can be most distressing.”

  Addie nodded in agreement. “Ah, yes. I remember only too well those poor girls who were placed in dire financial straits by the loss of wages. Let’s hope they’ve been able to monetarily prepare themselves for the spring rains.”

  Daughtie and Dr. Ketter moved toward the door and bid farewell. She then stepped outside, knowing that Ivan Ketter would follow her, yet hoping he wouldn’t begin his pursuit anew.

  “I’ve been thinking,” he said softly as they headed for Mrs. Arnold’s house. “I want you to know it was never my intention to make you uncomfortable. I’m generally not so bold, but I was encouraged.”

  “Yes, I know,” Daughtie replied, uncertain where this conversation was leading.

  “I’m not a difficult man,” he said in a reflective manner. “I’m sorry that I made you uncomfortable. I would never have pursued your affections had I not believed it all to be part of the ritual.”

  Daughtie couldn’t help but chuckle. “I grew up with the Shakers, Dr. Ketter. Men and women were not allowed to share their affections or play a part of any ritual, as you call it. I’m sorry you felt misled.”

  “Well, truth be told, I wouldn’t mind getting to know Miss Ruth better.”

  Daughtie looked up at him with a huge smile. “I think I can help arrange that.”

  He perked up at this. “Truly? You don’t think she’ll feel the same as you?”

  Daughtie shook her head. “No, in fact, Ruth was qu
ite jealous of the attention you showed me those first few days. I do not believe it will be a difficult task at all to win her interest.”

  “And you would consent to helping me?”

  Daughtie laughed. “I hardly believe you’ll need my help, Dr. Ketter. I believe Ruth’s heart will speak for itself once she realizes you are interested.”

  They reached the house just then. Daughtie turned at the door. “I’m glad this has been worked out between us. I never wished to make an enemy of you.”

  “You most assuredly will never be my enemy,” Ivan replied.

  “Nor you mine,” Daughtie answered, glad to have things work out much better than she could have hoped for.

  Dr. Ketter opened the door to find Ruth conveniently nearby. “Ah, Ruth. Just the woman I hoped to see.”

  Ruth appeared rather shocked as she looked past Dr. Ketter to Daughtie. “Me?”

  “Indeed. Have you a few moments to join me by the fire?”

  Daughtie wanted to giggle at the look on Ruth’s face. Good, she thought, let her have some of her own medicine. Let her be the recipient of Dr. Ketter’s persistent attention. Somehow, Daughtie believed Ruth would receive it in a much more welcoming manner.

  Daughtie readied herself for church the next morning, now armed with the information Taylor had requested the evening before. She would need to depart early if she was to arrive at the Farnsworth home as scheduled. Hurrying downstairs, she sighed, weary from the night of thunder and lightning that had interrupted her sleep. The rain had subsided a bit, but the clouds overhead appeared ominous as she hastened her steps.

  “Psst. Ma’am!”

  Daughtie turned toward the sound, surprised to see the Irish girl who had always delivered Liam’s messages hiding in the brush along the fence line. The girl glanced about and then hurried toward Daughtie, waving a piece of paper in front of her. She shoved the scrap in Daughtie’s direction, obviously anxious to be rid of it and on her way. Unfolding and smoothing the rumpled paper, Daughtie scanned the carefully penned words. Her heart plummeted. How could she possibly handle another complex situation at this time?