A Refuge at Highland Hall (14 page)

“Not sure I want to go.” Donald looked toward the stables with a frown.

Tom and Jack exchanged uncertain looks.

“Might be nice to see that new pony,” Tom said.

Donald's expression eased, and he shrugged. “All right. Come on.” He tossed his racket on the grass and started off. The other boys hustled to follow him.

“Wait for us!” Penny called, then lifted her hand to her hat and hurried after them. She wasn't sure what Mr. McTavish would say if the boys appeared at the stables without her, and she didn't want to upset the hard-working steward.

Julia looked into her dressing-table mirror and pulled the brush through her long dark hair. It was wonderful having her brother, Jon, here at Highland again, even if it was only for two days. She smiled, remembering how happy Jon and Kate were to be together again after such a long time apart.

It was comforting to have those she loved close by, especially when the news from the front was so disheartening. The Germans had stepped up their campaign in the last few weeks, and British troops remained deadlocked in the trenches.

Jon's brief comments about the injuries caused by the poison gas now being used on the battlefields had been so painful to hear.

She sighed, her heart aching. How long would the war last? In their conversation after dinner, the men seemed to think the end was not in sight. Penny had spoken up and voiced her agreement.

Julia paused her hair brushing. Penny's interest in the war was a bit surprising. When Julia had been Penny's governess, Penny had never been interested in international events, but now she pored over the
Times
each day as soon as William was finished with it. Many of Penny's generation were involved in the fight, so Julia supposed it made sense that she would want to understand what was happening.

Was that the only reason?

William walked into the bedroom. “Almost ready for bed?”

She looked up at his reflection in the mirror and smiled. “Yes, almost.”

“It's been quite a day, hasn't it?” He pulled his tie loose from around his neck.

“Yes. It was good to have Jon and my parents here for dinner. I can't remember the last time we had so many people around the dinner table.”

He nodded, then glanced away. Lines creased his forehead as he looked toward their bedroom fireplace.

“William, is something wrong?”

He looked back and met her gaze. “I have some news, but you should prepare yourself.”

Her heart lurched. The faces of the young men on their staff who had gone off to France to fight flashed through her mind. “Have you had a telegram? Has someone been injured or…” She couldn't say the word.

He laid his hand on her shoulder. “No. It's not that.” He pulled up a chair and sat next to her, his expression solemn. “Clark has decided to enlist.”

Julia pulled in a sharp breath. “I didn't expect that.”

“Neither did I. But news of the war has been so grim, he feels our freedom and way of life are at stake, and he must respond.”

“Is it truly that bad?”

William's eyes clouded. “It is very serious, and I'm afraid things may become much more difficult before it's over.”

“When did he tell you?”

“This afternoon. He made quite a convincing case, then asked for my support, and I gave it.”

“Does Sarah know?”

“He's taking the train up tomorrow to see her. He thought that would be better, rather than writing a letter.”

Julia nodded. “Poor dear. I know it's been difficult for her to be separated from him for so long, and now this.” Sarah had gone to Windermere, in the Lake District, three months ago to care for Agatha Dalton, Clark's elderly aunt. She was ill and had no family close by, so Sarah had volunteered to travel north and do what she could to help.

William's brooding frown deepened. “She's been gone too long. And now to have to face this news on top of the burden of nursing Clark's aunt.” He shook his head. “It's too much for her to bear.”

“Do you think I should go up and stay with her for a week or two? Maybe that would ease the situation.”

“No. I think it's time Sarah comes home. She can bring Clark's aunt Agatha here if she must, but we can't have Sarah staying up in the Lake District now that Clark is leaving.” He shook his head. “I never would've agreed to this plan if I'd known she'd be away this long.”

Julia laid her hand on William's knee. “She's a married woman now, and that decision was one she and Clark made together.”

“Yes, but I am still her brother, and I'd like to think I have some influence on their decisions.”

She smiled and reached out and touched his cheek. “You are a dear, and you love your sister, but she and Clark must make their own plans and do what they think is best for their family.”

“Of course. But bringing Sarah and Clark's aunt back to Highland makes sense. I could go up and escort them, if needed. No matter how ill the aunt is, if she had a private rail car, I'm sure she could make the journey. She'd receive much better care here with your father close by and the staff and family available to look in on her. We could even hire a nurse to give Sarah a chance to rest.”

“It's a good plan, if she and Clark will agree to it.”

William gave a firm nod. “I'll speak to Clark in the morning before he leaves.”

“Good. Then he and Sarah can discuss it when they're together.”

He reached for her hand, and his forehead creased again. “There's something else I need to say.”

Julia's heartbeat quickened. “What is it?”

“Clark is right. We all have a responsibility to do our duty.”

Julia gripped his fingers, and a fearful tremor traveled down her arm. “You're not thinking of enlisting, are you?”

“No, not yet, but I want to do my part.”

She released a shaky breath and studied his face.

“I have a great deal of experience in shipping and moving goods from place to place because of my years managing Ramsey Imports. Perhaps that could be helpful in the war effort.”

“I thought fear of the German U-boats has shut down most of the shipping lanes, especially since they sank the
Lusitania.
”

“That true. But Britain must find ways to import the food and goods we need if we're going to survive this war.” He ran his thumb over the top of her hand. “Perhaps the Lord gave me that time overseeing our family's business so I would gain the knowledge needed to help our country through this crisis.”

Julia gave a slow nod. William and his brother David had inherited Ramsey Imports after their father's death. But when William inherited Highland Hall, he'd sold his half interest in the company to his brother. David managed the company for only a little more than a year before he became involved with Dorothea Martindale, the wife of a leading diplomat.

William warned David of dire consequences and urged him to break it off, but David wouldn't listen, and a few days later he was arrested as a suspect in the murder of Dorothea's husband. The scandal had almost destroyed the family's reputation and Ramsey Imports. But the real murderer finally confessed, and David was released from jail. He sold Ramsey Imports, married Dorothea, and moved to America to make a fresh start.

She wasn't sure what had happened to Ramsey Imports in the last year, but she expected the company was suffering terribly since the war started.

She looked at William. “What exactly would you do?”

“I'm not sure. But I thought I'd speak to Fredrick Pontell. We went to Oxford together, and he works in the War Office.”

The government urged economy and careful meal preparation, but Highland Hall hadn't been impacted too much. Since William inherited Highland, he had worked to make the estate as self-sustaining as possible. Now they grew most of their own food and ate fish and game from their own land. They had added to the gardens and greenhouses and enlarged the dairy herd. The orchards Clark planted a few years ago were finally bearing fruit. But not everyone was so well prepared.

William rubbed his chin and gazed toward the fireplace. “Perhaps I could take on some sort of advisory role and help manage the supplies that are imported. With careful planning, we might be able to avert shortages and put off rationing.”

“Would you have to stay in London?” Thoughts of the bombings that had driven Kate, Penny, and the children to seek refuge at Highland sent an uneasy quiver through her.

“I don't know.” He slipped his hand into hers. “But you mustn't worry. It's just an idea that came to me during my conversation with Clark. I'll have to look into it and see if it's even a possibility.” His words were comforting, but the look in his eyes made it clear he was determined to do his part. They all were. She just hoped it wouldn't put him in danger or cause them to have to live apart for long.

Her thoughts shifted to Sarah and Clark, and her heart ached. William was only thinking of traveling to London to offer his help for a short time. That was a small sacrifice compared to Clark's decision to enlist. She must keep things in perspective and trust the One who would watch over them all.

Please, Lord, help us through this war. Protect our family and friends. Show us Your will and help us trust You.

P
enny slipped under the arched entrance to the walled garden, carrying her latest letter from Alex. Just knowing he had written made her steps lighter and her heart feel like singing.

She followed the gravel path across the garden and past the boxwood hedge clipped into an arch, then went out the door in the garden wall leading to Eden's Garden. When Penny was just a little girl, her mother chose the plants and flowers here, and Mr. Dalton, Clark's father, planted them all for her.

Curving flower beds full of bright perennials ran along both sides of the grass pathway. Normally, she would stop to enjoy the flowers and cut a bouquet, but today she was eager to find a quiet, private spot to read her letter.

She reached the far end of the garden path and sat on the stone bench in the shade of the tall hedge. To her left, the gate stood open, leading to the shady lane that ended at the stables.

A bird's song floated down from the trees just past the gate, and the children's voices could be heard in the distance. Lydia and Helen had taken them to watch Andrew and Mr. McTavish train the pony. She hoped that would keep them occupied until luncheon.

She slid her finger under the edge of the envelope and tore it open.

July 17, 1915

Dear Penny,

Thank you for your latest letter and the two photographs. There's no need to apologize for the formality or the feathers. You look very pretty and quite regal, in fact. I'm sure everyone who saw you that day was impressed. I appreciate Jon and Kate's wedding photograph as well. They make a handsome couple, and it's nice to see all the family on such a happy occasion. I've set the photographs on a wooden crate by my bed so I can see you and your family each day. It's a good reminder of why I'm here, whom I hope to protect and whom I look forward to seeing when this war is over.

She stopped and smiled. That was very sweet. She'd been unsure about sending the photographs, but now she was glad she had. They seemed to bring him comfort and remind him of her and her family.

Your letter arrived just after I'd returned from a very long and difficult mission. It was a success, but I was never so glad to touch down and turn off my engine. Reading your kind, encouraging words and your promises to pray for me boosted my spirits when I needed it. Thank you for that. It's hard to explain how much your letters have meant to me, but I am very grateful, and I want you to know I think of you often and pray for you as well.

Her heartbeat quickened. He thought of her often and prayed for her? Did he mean his feelings for her were deepening, just from reading her letters?

Memories of Theo and the letters they had exchanged rose in her mind. They had been friendly and informative, but he'd never asked for her photograph or said he was thinking of her or praying for her. The tone of Alex's letters seemed warmer, more personal, and more promising.

A delightful thrill ran through her. Alex was a wonderful man with strong faith and a good heart, and she couldn't help hoping their friendship would continue to grow into something much more. She sighed, then looked down and continued reading.

We've had some beautiful sunny days this week. Yesterday, I hiked to the beach with one of my friends, and we spent some time there, kicking a football around on the wet sand and chasing the seagulls. We were dirty and soaked to the skin in short order, but it was good to get away for a few hours. We had time off because both my planes are down and being repaired. But I should be back in the air tomorrow.

We've had some hard losses this past week. I can't go into detail, but keep our whole squadron in your prayers. Each man here has become like a brother to me, and I want us all to come through this war and make it home again. We all know when we take off we'll face dangerous situations, but we want to do our duty and to see this war through to the end.

I hope you'll not be too worried by what I've just written. I have come through everything well so far, and I expect, with your prayers and God's hand on my shoulder, I will be just fine.

How are you? What kind of adventures are you having with the children? I enjoyed reading about your plan to help Donald and the other boys become better friends with Andrew. I can imagine the differences in their backgrounds make it a challenge for them to accept each other. I experienced a bit of that when I first enlisted. But putting all ranks and classes together in the military has a way of evening things out. I hope the boys can overcome their differences and learn to appreciate each other. It's worth the effort to keep trying.

How is Kate feeling these days? I received a letter from Jon last week. It was good to hear from him and know that all is well with him and his work at St. George's. I hope you all enjoyed his visit to Highland.

How kind of Alex to ask after Jon and Kate. It was good to hear Jon had written to Alex. She was glad they stayed in touch and could encourage each other.

She smiled, thinking of the series of events that had made it possible for her to meet Alex: his crash-landing during training and shoulder injury…his reconnection with Jon at St. George's…her decision to help with the outing for wounded soldiers at the London Zoo…Alex coming along with Jon that day…What wonderful serendipity!

Was it more than that? Was it a special plan inspired by her heavenly Father? Her heart warmed as growing assurance spread through her.

As I walked back to my room tonight, I looked up at the sky and was struck by the amazing array of stars and the brilliant half moon. The peace and beauty of the moment eased the burden I carried today, and I was grateful. My thoughts turned to you, and I said a prayer, asking God to watch over you, and keep you safe and well. I look forward to your next letter and to hearing that prayer has been answered.

Until then, good night, dear Penny.

Alex

Penny lifted her hand to her heart and gazed out across the garden.
“Good night, dear Penny…”

That definitely sounded romantic.

Perhaps she should ask for his photograph in her next letter. That would let him know her feelings for him were growing as well.

A shout rose beyond the hedge. Penny's heart lurched. More shouting followed. She jumped up and ran out the open gateway toward the stables.

Julia crossed the great hall and walked toward the drawing room with Mrs. Dalton at her side. “Clark, Sarah, and Agatha should arrive just after three.” Julia glanced at the tall clock by the fireplace as they passed. They had less than an hour, and there was still much to be done.

Clark's telegram had been delivered only a short while ago, telling them he was boarding the train at Windermere with Sarah and his aunt and to expect them that afternoon. She wished he had given them a bit more notice, but there was nothing to be done about it now. Fortunately the children were occupied outdoors, and she and Mrs. Dalton could discuss the final preparations.

Julia entered the drawing room and turned to Mrs. Dalton. “Are the bedrooms ready?”

“Yes, I've aired out Clark and Sarah's room and readied the Devonshire room, next to theirs, for Agatha.”

“Good.”

“Agatha doesn't care for flowers.” Mrs. Dalton's brow creased. “She says she's allergic. She also doesn't eat beef, mutton, shellfish, or berries. She believes sweets are sin, and children, especially, should never eat them.”

Julia's eyebrows rose. “Really?”

The housekeeper gave a firm nod.

A ripple of unease traveled through Julia. It sounded as though Clark's elderly aunt was quite particular. That didn't bode well. “Is there anything else I ought to know about Agatha?”

Mrs. Dalton tipped her head. “I haven't seen her in quite some time. She used to visit at Christmas, but she hasn't come since my husband passed away.”

“She never married?”

“No, m'lady. She did not.”

William's idea of bringing Agatha to Highland had seemed sensible when he'd suggested it. Now she wasn't so sure. But it meant Sarah could come home, and that was most important. “I've sent a message to my father. He'll be coming by to see Agatha as soon as she's settled.”

“I'm not sure she'll welcome a visit from your father on her first day at Highland.”

“But Clark said she's unwell. If we're to care for her properly, we'll need a doctor's direction.”

Mrs. Dalton gave her head a slight shake. “I don't know if she'll see him.”

Julia sighed. “Well, the message has been sent. He's probably already on his way. We'll just have to deal with it when she arrives…Let's go over the menu for the week.”

“Very good, m'lady.” The housekeeper took a small notebook and pencil from her skirt pocket.

A door banged open in the entry hall.

“Both of you, come with me!” Penny's voice rang out.

Mrs. Dalton's eyes widened, and she turned toward the doorway.

Julia hurried across the drawing room and entered the great hall.

Penny marched Andrew and Donald toward Julia. Her cheeks glowed bright pink, and several strands of her wavy auburn hair had come loose. Dirt smudged both boys' faces. Andrew's pants showed a rip on one knee, and Donald had a bloody cut on the side of his mouth.

Julia pulled in a sharp breath. “My goodness. What happened?”

Penny nodded to Andrew. “Go ahead. Tell her.”

Andrew set his jaw and glared toward the staircase.

“Very well. If you don't want to explain, I will.” Penny narrowed her eyes at the boys. “These two had a disagreement and decided to settle it with their fists rather than discussing matters like gentlemen.”

Donald's stormy gaze raked Andrew. “He might be in line to inherit Highland, but he's no gentleman.”

Andrew swung around. “You take that back!”

“I will not! You're no better than we are, but you treat us like trash.”

“That's because you've no family and no—”

“That's
enough
!” Julia stepped forward. “Both of you will stop this argument immediately.” She looked back and forth between them. “Sir William and I require mutual respect among all the members of this family, and I will not—”

Andrew's eyes blazed. “He's not a member of my family!”

“I wouldn't want to be! Not in a million years!”

William hustled down the stairs. “What is all this shouting?”

Julia looked up at William, her heart pounding in her throat. Andrew glared across the hall and turned his face away, while Donald lifted his chin and sent William a fiery glare.

“I'm sorry for the disturbance”—Penny stepped around Andrew—“but I am at my wit's end trying to resolve matters between these two.”

“What's the meaning of this?” William focused his brooding frown at Andrew.

The boy's face flamed, and his Adam's apple bobbed in his throat. “Donald is intent on humiliating me in front of the others.”

Donald scoffed. “I am not. If you're humiliated by your poor horse-training skills, then that's your problem, not mine.”

William lifted his hand to halt Donald's words, then turned to Andrew. “So this is about training the pony?”

“It's about him, mocking me in front of the others.”

Donald shook his head, his expression hard and unrepentant.

William studied the boys for a moment, then shifted his gaze. “Penny, tell me what happened.”

“Andrew was working with Mr. McTavish, training the pony, and the children were lined up along the fence, watching them. Donald made a remark about Andrew to the other children. Andrew overheard him, came bolting over the fence, and knocked Donald to the ground. Fists started flying, and Mr. McTavish and I had to pull them apart.”

William's frown deepened to a scowl. “This is not the kind of behavior I expect from you, Andrew.”