The Pattern of Her Heart (Lights of Lowell Book #3)

24

CHAPTER • 1

Mid-August 1857

THE PRIMROSE-YELLOW skirt of Jasmine Houston’s gown fluttered in the early afternoon breeze, the satin-banded hem settling like a field of daisies across the thick green grass as she stooped in front of her five-year-old daughter. Gently cupping the child’s small dimpled chin in her palm, she issued a silent prayer of thanksgiving for Alice Ann’s return to health before making eye contact with the child. We must go upstairs and prepare for your birthday celebration before our guests arrive.

The little girl hopped from foot to foot while pointing at one of the distant barns, where the Houstons stabled their ever-increasing herd of Arabian horses. Her cornflower-blue eyes glimmered with anticipation as she turned back to her mother. Am I going to get my pony today? she quizzed.

Jasmine nibbled at her lower lip, for she didn’t want to shed tears. This was, after all, a day for rejoicing, not a time of despair. The entire family had been waiting for over three months to celebrate Alice Ann’s birthday, waiting and praying the child would live through the debilitating illness that had ravaged her frail body. Scarlatina maligna, Dr. Hartzfeld had told them—a fancy name for a highly dangerous form of scarlet fever. A disease that could leave Alice Ann with lifelong medical problems . . . if she lived. The doctor had whispered his final assessment, fearing the pronouncement of a death sentence upon the child would send Jasmine into a depression.

Instead, his words had propelled her into bustling activity. With a mother’s fear and determination, she enlisted the aid of attendants to assist with Alice Ann’s care. Hopeful the disease would not spread to other members of their family or the community, Jasmine had immediately quarantined the household and ordered small doses of belladonna for all who came in contact with the child. She had diligently researched every piece of medical advice that came her way, and most importantly, she had requested that every person in the community pray for Alice Ann.

Now, looking into her daughter’s bright blue eyes, she knew all those months of diligent care had been worth it. Dr. Hartzfeld’s predictions had been wrong. Alice Ann’s health had been restored, and she was now the same precocious little girl she’d always been. Amazingly, there was no evidence she’d ever suffered the debilitating illness. However, healthy or not, Jasmine believed the child still too young for her own pony.

So how could she best answer the child’s question? We never promised you a pony as a birthday present. What about the toys we looked at in Whidden’s Mercantile? Jasmine inquired as she took hold of Alice’s hand and led her into the house.

"The doll was pretty, but I want my very own pony. Spencer has his own horse," she said, her pink lips forming a tiny pout.

But you must remember that horses require a great deal of work. They aren’t like a toy that you can play with for a short time and then put aside. They must be cared for every day.

Spencer could take me with him when he goes to take care of Lockspur.

Jasmine smiled at the child’s pronunciation. "Larkspur, she gently corrected. And though it’s true you could go with your brother to the barns, he might not enjoy having you in tow all the time. He and Moses like to spend time with the horses by themselves. They might feel as if you’re intruding. Besides, Spencer didn’t receive his pony until he was seven years old."

But I can ride better than Spencer, she argued, her pout once again returning.

What’s this I hear? Our birthday girl isn’t unhappy, is she? Nolan called out as mother and daughter walked down the hallway, approaching his library door.

Jasmine stopped and met her husband’s warm gaze. We’re discussing birthday gifts.

Nolan balanced his chin between his thumb and index finger and looked down at his daughter. This sounds like a particularly interesting topic. Did you make a special request for your birthday?

Alice tilted her head and looked up to meet her father’s sparkling eyes. "You know I want a pony, but Mama said Spencer was seven when he got his pony. I’m a much better rider than Spencer was when he turned five, don’t you think? And I’m almost five and a half," she hastened to add.

Jasmine wondered if the girl’s remark was meant to evoke sympathy from him. After all, it was Nolan who had promised Alice Ann that she would have a superb birthday party once her health permitted the celebration. He had spent hours going over the details with her, planning a picnic on the back lawn, where everyone would come to celebrate the fact that she was now a big girl—a whole five years old. At the time, Alice had been too sick to care about any of it, but as her health began to return, she’d joined in with her father, planning the grandest of all birthday parties. Jasmine credited Nolan with giving Alice Ann a reason to fight the illness.

Nolan smiled adoringly at the child. It’s true that you’re well on the way to six years of age, and you’re certainly much more grown up than Spencer was at your age. I believe he was still playing with his toy soldiers and riding a pretend stick horse when he was five.

Jasmine gave her husband a warning look.

The fact remains, however, that you’re still very young. It seems that being around Spencer and Moses has caused you to believe you’re able to do everything they can do. However, you must remember they are nearly ten years old, and that makes them a good deal older than you. They are also young men, and as such they may play in a much rougher fashion.

But I’m a good rider, aren’t I, Poppa?

"Indeed you are. But your mother is correct; five is very young for a horse of your own. Come sit down with me for just a minute."

Alice Ann wriggled into place on the divan and then looked expectantly at her father.

I want to tell you a story about a little prince who lived in a faraway land. His father, the king, loved his little boy very much and wanted his child to be happy. So every time the prince mentioned there was something he desired, the king gave him the item. The little prince quickly learned that all he needed to do was state his desire and the king would hasten to purchase it. So the little prince continued this ritual, making more and more lavish requests of his father. Each day the gifts would arrive and be given to the little prince.

Alice Ann’s eyes danced with delight, her soft brown curls bobbing up and down as she nodded her acceptance of the little prince’s good fortune. And did he want a pony?

Oh, that was one of his very first requests, Nolan replied. But the prince received so many gifts that he didn’t appreciate or take care of any of them. He soon grew bored and nothing made him happy.

Alice Ann gave her father a questioning look. But his pony made him happy, didn’t it. Her words were stated with absolute authority.

He shook his head. Only for a very brief time. As I said, the prince quickly tired of each gift he received. But then one day the prince was at the market with a servant, and he saw a man with the most wonderful puppy he had ever seen. It was a happy little pup with a wagging tail and lots of soft fur. He told the servant to get him the dog, but the owner refused. The puppy was not for sale. Nolan glanced at Jasmine.

"And then what happened?" Alice Ann asked.

Nolan settled back against the arm of the divan and rubbed his chin. Well, the king sent word to the man and told him to bring his puppy and come to the castle. The king offered to purchase the puppy with several gold pieces, but the man still wouldn’t give him the puppy. And no matter how many gold pieces the king offered, the man continued to refuse. Finally, the king asked what he needed to do in order to buy the puppy for his son.

Alice Ann straightened and gave her father her undivided attention. What did the man say?

He said the prince would need to prove himself.

With her chin resting in one hand and her eyes shining with wonder, she asked, How was the prince supposed to do that?

He would be required to care for the animal. So, in order to test the prince, the puppy remained at the castle. Each day the man checked to make sure the prince had fed and played with the dog. Within only a few days, the prince thought the man should be willing to give him the puppy, but the man still said no. Each week the prince asked for the puppy, and each week the man said no. So the prince continued caring for the puppy, and the man kept coming to the castle to ensure that the puppy was cared for. At the end of the year, the prince asked if he could have the puppy.

And what did the man say? Alice Ann asked in a hushed tone.

"The man said to the prince, ‘The puppy is already yours. Because you have cared for him and loved him, you’ve made him your own. Through your actions, you’ve shown the puppy he can trust you and you are his master.’

Jasmine gave Nolan a warm smile and then patted her daughter’s plump hand. Come along, Alice Ann, we must go upstairs and get ready now."

The child grasped her mother’s hand tightly. Thank you for the story, Poppa. I’ve already picked out a name for my pony.

"Did you listen to the story?" he called after his daughter as she bounded down the hallway.

Yes. And it was very good, she responded emphatically.

Jasmine glanced back at Nolan and shrugged as their daughter ran up the steps. I’m not sure she completely understood. Unfortunately, I fear she’s going to be terribly disappointed when she opens her package.

We’ll see, he replied absently.

Jasmine climbed the stairs and met Martha in the upper hallway. I’ll see to Miss Alice Ann if you have other matters that need your attention, the maid offered as she stacked sheets in the linen chest. Being around Miss Alice Ann reminds me of being with your grandmother. This child was certainly named after the proper person—she’s got the same bubbly enthusiasm.

Jasmine smiled at the comparison as Alice Ann scampered into her bedroom. Jasmine knew her grandmother’s former maid missed the old woman very much. The two had been more than employee and employer; they had been the best of friends. She reminds me of Grandmother in many ways also. I truly wish Grandmother had lived long enough to actually hold Alice Ann in her arms.

But she died knowing that if you gave birth to a little girl, her name would be Alice. I know the thought that she would have a namesake made her very happy. And Alice Ann flits about this house with the same authority as her great-grandmother— just like she’s in charge of the whole wide world.

You’re right on that account, Martha, Jasmine replied with a laugh. If you’re positive you don’t mind helping Alice Ann dress, it would be truly helpful. I can fix her hair once she’s dressed. I’d like to check on Spencer and then see to baby Clara. You can send Alice Ann to the baby’s room when you’ve finished.

Martha nodded and whispered, Alice Ann doesn’t suspect she’s getting a new doll, does she?

No, although I fear she may be disappointed. She’s talked of nothing but a pony lately, and I believe she’s positive her father won’t fail her.

Don’t you worry. She’s just like her great-grandmother Wainwright. She’ll be happy as can be with whatever she receives.

I hope you’re correct. Jasmine was not nearly so confident of her daughter’s reaction to the gift.

You can always tell her that if she isn’t pleased with the doll, you know several little girls who would be delighted to have it. She’ll soon change her mind, the older woman said with a wink. ’Course, we can’t go giving it away—I spent too many hours on that dress and cape for her dolly, she added with a chuckle.

When Jasmine brought the doll home from Whidden’s several weeks ago, she had drawn Martha into her confidence and shown her the gift. It had taken only a moment for Martha to decide the doll needed additional clothes and that she would immediately begin the task. It would be her birthday gift to Alice Ann, she’d insisted. During the past weeks, Martha had used her free time to stitch a cream wool doll’s dress and matching hooded cloak. With loving care, the older woman had embroidered tiny pink and blue flowers and green leaves around the hem of the dress and then attached a small pink tassel to the hooded cape.

The dress and cape are beautiful, Martha. If Alice Ann isn’t overly disappointed with the doll, I know she’ll be delighted with the clothes you made.

Mama, are you coming? Alice Ann called from her bedroom.

The two women exchanged a knowing look and rushed down the hallway in opposite directions. If they didn’t soon get the children dressed, their guests would arrive with no one at the door to properly greet them.

Elinor! Jasmine greeted. I am so pleased you’ve come.

I wouldn’t have missed it, Elinor said, extending a package.

You didn’t need to bring a present. Having you join us is gift enough, Jasmine admonished as she took the ribbon-bedecked offering.

"I hope Alice Ann will like it. I saw Martha in Whidden’s two weeks ago, and she mentioned the doll you had purchased. Mrs. Whidden gave me the doll’s measurements. I fashioned a matching bonnet for Alice and her doll, but you must set it aside until after she has opened your present, or she’ll wonder why I’ve chosen to make her such a gift."

What a wonderful idea, Elinor. She will absolutely love it.

I trust her health has continued to improve.

Indeed! You would think she’d never suffered a sick day in her life. When I watch her running about, I’m truly amazed by her recovery. Now, do come out to the rose garden with me. I believe most of the guests have arrived, and we’ve gathered on the lawn to visit and allow the children to play some games before we have our refreshments. How have you been?

I’ve been just fine. It’s so good to see you.

"Since you began attending church on Kirk Street, I don’t see you often enough. It’s been at least several weeks since we’ve seen one another, and Martha didn’t mention seeing you at Whidden’s. I was beginning to worry you’d taken ill," Jasmine said as she looped arms with Elinor and walked her to the backyard.

It’s difficult to get away from the boardinghouse. As you know, mill work is hard and the girls put in long hours. And of course they expect to find hot meals and a clean house upon their return. When I do have free time, it seems it’s filled by attending one meeting or another and helping with various church functions. There’s precious little time left to go calling, but be assured that I’ve missed our visits also.

Speaking of helping with church functions, I met your new pastor and his daughter two weeks ago. In fact, Spencer insisted we invite them to the party today. He and Moses have become fast friends with young Reggie.

Elinor grinned. I don’t doubt that statement for a minute. I believe Reggie is quite the tomboy, but she seems a very sweet girl.

She can straddle and ride a horse better than both of the boys, though I doubt her father realizes she does so, Jasmine confided.

"I imagine someone will be quick to advise him. The ladies of the church are keeping both Pastor Chamberlain and Reggie in their sights."

No doubt! After all, the women do outnumber the men in Lowell. I do believe every single woman in town views Justin Chamberlain as an excellent prospect.

"Not every single woman, Elinor said. The last thing I want is another husband."

Jasmine tilted her head and arched her perfectly shaped eyebrows. "I stand corrected—almost every woman. Elinor had been widowed twice and was not yet thirty and three years of age. Jasmine eyed her friend cautiously. Still, it always seems to be those who protest something that end up wading deep in its cause."

I’ve seen the time when I was forced to wade deep in horse droppings, Elinor protested, but it didn’t mean I desired to be there.

The two women laughed and waved in return as Alice Ann and several young friends sprinted past them, waving wildly.

It certainly does appear she has returned to full health. I understand there was a case of scarlatina maligna in Billerica, and the child now has dropsy. A terribly sad consequence, Elinor stated.

I, too, heard that distressing news. Dr. Hartzfeld warned us early on to be very careful during Alice Ann’s period of convalescence. It seems to be a surprisingly dangerous time.

How so?

If the patient chills or takes a cold, the entire system can be affected, leaving the person with a chronic illness, such as dropsy or even permanent deafness, Jasmine explained.

An involuntary shudder seized her after she uttered the words, and Elinor patted her arm. I know you’ve been through a horrible ordeal, but the child is living evidence of answered prayers. I believe a good number of Lowell’s residents were on their knees for Alice Ann. And it looks as though you’ve invited most of them today, Elinor said with a smile as she looked about at the crowd gathered for the party.

Jasmine laughed and shook her head back and forth. "Not quite. However, Alice Ann would have been delighted had we extended an invitation to the entire community. Do come and greet Nolan before Taylor and Bella whisk you off to themselves. Bella frequently tells me they don’t see you often enough."

If my brother and his wife had their way, I’d quit my position as a keeper at the boardinghouse and move in with them. I know it would help them if I would do so. With that houseful of children, Bella needs all the assistance she can receive. However, I don’t think such a move would be to my liking. I much prefer my life at the boardinghouse. Even with my long hours, I have more freedom than would ever be possible as a live-in nanny.

I believe you’re correct—but I do understand that both Bella and Taylor would love to have you with them, she said as they approached Nolan, who was standing among a group of men, holding their younger daughter on his hip.

I’ll take Clara, Jasmine said as she lightly touched her husband’s arm. She took the child in her arms, but Clara wanted no part of it. She struggled until Jasmine relented and put her on the ground, then immediately grabbed her father’s leg.

Sorsey, she demanded.

Jasmine laughed. Seems everyone wants a horse. She met Nolan’s twinkling eyes and got the feeling she was missing something as he laughed. Look who’s come to Alice Ann’s party, she said as she turned to Elinor.

Elinor! We’d given up on you when you didn’t arrive with Bella and Taylor, he said.

I’ve taken to going places on my own rather than relying upon Taylor and Bella as escorts, she quietly replied as she bent to brush a curl from Clara’s forehead. I can’t believe how big she’s grown.

Nor I—she turned two last month, and it seems she was born only yesterday.

Nolan grunted softly as a small towheaded child plunged against him and captured the leg not yet possessed by Clara. And this is Zachary—McKinley and Violet’s little boy, who will be four years old next month. It seems we’re celebrating birthdays all the time, he said, tousling Zachary’s hair.

You said we could see the horses, Zachary demanded.

Indeed I did, nephew. Why don’t you wait for me by the stable door.

Zachary eyed him for a moment. You won’t forget?

I promise to be there straightaway. The boy hurried to the stables as if racing some imaginary friend.

Nolan turned back to Elinor while Clara gave up her hold and toddled toward a crowd of well-wishers. We are delighted you’ve seen fit to join us for Alice Ann’s joyous gathering. Perhaps you could convince my wife that it’s high time we were favored with some refreshments. How much longer must we wait, my dear? We’re all nearly famished. Isn’t that correct, gentlemen? he asked, raising his voice loud enough to be heard by the nearby collection of men.

The group nodded in unison, reminding Jasmine of little boys playing follow-the-leader. I’m certain none of you would tell a fib since you’re in the company of Pastor Chamberlain, she said, casting the pastor a glance. He was tall and well muscled, built more like her stable hands than a man of the cloth. At least he didn’t look like any man of the cloth she’d ever met.

The preacher scrutinized the group with a stern look upon his face. Please speak up immediately if you told an untruth by saying you’re hungry. Believe me when I say that the rest of us are hoping there are several of you, because we’d feel it was our duty to eat your portion—and we’d do so with great delight.

The men broke into laughter at the preacher’s remark, but none admitted he was willing to give up his portion of food.

Well, it appears we had best serve our picnic, and Alice Ann can open her gifts afterward. We’ll have cake and lemonade after she’s finished with her presents. How does that sound, gentlemen?

Tell me where the line will form and you’ll not hear another word out of me, Matthew Cheever replied. My biggest fear is that some tragic event will strike one of the mills and they will call me away.

That is what you get for being so important to the mills and the Boston Associates, Jasmine teased.

Just follow me, Nolan said, waving the men forward. I’ll see to it that they never find you, Matthew.

Jasmine raised her eyebrows as she watched the men march off. They do act like young boys at times, don’t they?

Indeed. I’d say you’d best give the order to laden the tables with food, Elinor said with a giggle.

If you’ll excuse me, I’ll see to matters in the kitchen and put Clara down for her nap, Jasmine said. Promise you’ll stay long enough that we can have a good visit before you leave.

I promise. Now don’t let me keep you from your responsibilities.

Elinor filled her plate and surveyed the small groups gathered at the tables arranged on the lawn. There wasn’t a place for her at the long table where Bella and Taylor were seated with their children. Several other families had joined the Mannings, and it appeared as if two or three other individuals were still vying to find a seat. Accordingly, Elinor turned and headed off in the other direction, finally detecting a pair of available chairs.

May I join you? she asked.

Three youthful faces peered up at her. If you don’t mind listening to talk of horses and fishing, Spencer Houston replied with a wide grin. Moses and Reggie Chamberlain nodded.

I enjoy both of those topics and many others, Elinor said while juggling her plate and attempting to be seated.

Moses jumped to his feet and hurried around the table. Let me help you, Miz Brighton, he offered while pulling the chair out for her.

Thank you, Moses. You’d think I could manage on my own, wouldn’t you?

These chairs don’ move very easy on da grass, he said. ’Sides, it’s proper manners for men to help ladies be seated.

Men? You and Spencer aren’t men—you’re just little boys, Reggie teased.

"Big enough to know more than little girls," Spencer retorted.

Perhaps I should look for another seat. It appears I’ve already started an argument, Elinor said.

Nah, we’s jest playing, Moses said. We tease each other all da time.

Right—it’s ’cause Moses and me, we like each other, Spencer agreed, leaving Reggie out of the thought altogether.

Elinor took a sip of water, pondering the boy’s statement. Spencer indeed saw himself and Moses as equal in every way; the only problem was, the rest of the world definitely didn’t see it that way. Moses was part Negro, and in the eyes of the world he was not at all like Spencer Houston. It seemed a pity that such beliefs kept people from the kind of friendship enjoyed by Spencer and Moses. Seeing that the children had stopped to watch her, she leaned forward as though ready to plot a scheme. If that is what teasing is all about, then I hope you’ll soon be teasing me. Elsewise, I’ll think you don’t like me, she said with a grin.

The trio giggled with a hearty enthusiasm that drew the attention of guests at nearby tables, and Elinor placed a finger to her lips. Shh—they’ll all want to join us since we’re having such fun.

Do you like to fish, Mrs. Brighton? Reggie inquired.

Indeed. You know, portions of my early years were spent in Portsmouth, England, and Portsmouth is on the ocean’s edge. Later I lived in London, and we had a marvelous river, the Thames. I’ve always loved the water, although I confess I’m not always a successful fisherman. Perhaps one day before school begins you’ll invite me along on one of your fishing expeditions.

Reggie always catches the mos’ fish, but we all pretty good, Moses said.

And I’d much rather go fishing than attend school. Let’s don’t even talk about that, Reggie hastened to add.

Elinor took a bite of fresh fruit salad before turning her attention back to the group. "None of you like school?"

I do, Moses quickly replied, bobbing his head up and down.

I’d rather ride horses, but I suppose school’s all right, Spencer agreed.

Not me—I don’t like it. Not now and not ever, Reggie stated with an emphatic nod.

Is that because you’re going to be attending a new school, Reggie? Elinor asked.

She shrugged her shoulders. That too, but school is the same everywhere. It’s tiresome.

A long shadow fell across the table as the girl spoke. Elinor looked up to see Justin Chamberlain standing nearby and nodded in recognition. She doubted, however, that the pastor would remember her name. Even though Elinor was a member of his church and attended services every Sunday, she had chosen to remain somewhat anonymous. After all, Pastor Chamberlain was new to Lowell and there were many names and faces to learn—especially those of the church ladies determined to seek his undivided attention.

Elinor turned her attention back to Reggie. "But you are going to give school your very best effort this year, aren’t you?"

The girl squirmed in her chair for a moment before answering. I suppose, she replied with lackluster enthusiasm.

Justin settled his plate and cup on the table and seated himself between Reggie and Elinor. You must remember that doing the things you enjoy will be directly related to how well you perform in school, her father said before taking a bite of fried chicken.

Well, I personally believe it is much too pretty a day to be worried about the next school term, Elinor said. What have you found enjoyable here in Lowell that you’ve not found elsewhere?

Two friends who like to do the same things I like, Reggie answered quickly.

Moses giggled, his eyes wide with delight. She’s da first girl I ever knew who’d put a worm on her fishing hook.

I’m awed by your fearless nature, Reggie, Elinor said, placing one hand upon her ruffled bodice. No doubt one day you are going to lead an adventuresome life, and your father will be very proud of you.

Elinor could feel Justin Chamberlain’s gaze upon her, but she refused to look up. Her words were meant to encourage Reggie, and she feared the pastor might not take kindly to them. Possibly he would think she was encouraging the child’s daring behavior.

Nolan watched closely as Alice Ann opened her gifts, pleased by the child’s enthusiastic thanks as she untied the beribboned presents and tore open the paper. Jasmine grasped his hand as Alice lifted the lid from the box containing her doll. With a squeal of delight, the child pulled the doll from the paper-lined box.

Nolan leaned down and whispered into Jasmine’s ear, You see? I told you there was no need to worry.

She nodded, her eyes fixed upon Alice Ann as the child hugged the doll tightly to her chest.

She’s pretty, isn’t she? Alice Ann asked, looking directly at her parents.

Not as pretty as you, but she is a lovely doll, her father replied.

The clothing Martha had sewn and the ribbon-festooned hat Elinor had made both met with hearty approval from the guest of honor, who immediately began the process of changing the doll’s clothing.

Why don’t you wait awhile longer before you begin changing the doll’s clothes and come along with me? Nolan suggested, extending his hand. There’s something I want to show you while your guests are waiting for their lemonade and cake.

She carefully tucked the doll back inside the box, taking pains to place it atop one of the tables—out of reach of the younger children.

Where are we going? she asked as she took her father’s hand.

It’s a surprise, he said while leading her across the lawn and toward the distant barns.

They trod along silently until Nolan stopped and waved his arm high in the air. At his signal, Paddy rode out of the fenced corral. He was sitting tall and proud atop one of the Arabians and leading a black, white-stockinged pony alongside. Nolan watched Alice’s reaction as Paddy approached.

She looked up and met his intense gaze. Is the pony mine? Her voice was no more than a whisper and difficult to hear above the thumping hooves.

Nolan knelt on one knee and wrapped an arm around his daughter’s waist. Do you remember the story I told you earlier today?

Yes, about the prince wanting a puppy.

And do you remember the rest?

She gave several quick nods. The prince took care of the puppy and became his master.

But not right away, Nolan added.

After a year.

Yes. And a year is a long time to take care of an animal. So I think we should give you a year and see how well you’re able to take care of this pony. What do you think, Allie?