The Harrison: A Beautiful Place to Die (Madeline Donovan Mysteries Book 2) (26 page)

"I may have, but I believe this is my life now, and what I choose to do. I will get better at it," said Madeline.

"You've had a successful outcome to your first case, Madeline. Congratulations! What a story I accidentally fell into; I can't wait to get back to New York and tell the account of what happened at that seemingly lovely hotel," said Jonathan.

She impulsively hugged them and said, "I don't know if I could have done it without you both. You two are part of my life now, a most welcome part."

A light rain trickled down their shoulders, and Hugh said, "After you."

She took his arm and had started up the stairs, when a young man ran past them to the front door.

"May I help you?" Madeline asked.

"I'm looking for Dr. Donovan. I have an urgent telegram for him."

"He's my father. Please come in."

Her father tipped the boy, took his glasses out and read his telegram. When he finished, he scratched his head and then handed the telegram to Madeline saying, "This is a quandary. What will I do about my practice?"

"What do you mean, Father?" asked Madeline.

"Read the telegram. It's from Belle Mayfair. Do you remember her?"

"Of course."

Aunt Belle Mayfair was a grand, Southern woman who hailed from New Orleans. Like Uncle Hank, she was not actually her aunt, but a close friend of her father and mother. When her parents were on their honeymoon, and traveling through New Orleans; they had accidentally met Belle and her family. They had been dining in one of the eateries at the time. When Belle's daughter began choking on a piece of meat, father, who sat near her, saved her daughter's life.

In return, Belle, who was quite wealthy, assisted with the finances needed to establish his first medical office. Her father had always been extremely grateful for her generosity and credited her with his early success. They became fast friends, and through the years, the doctor had advised her on many medical issues that her family had.

During her childhood, she remembered Belle's visits as a cause for celebration. Her charm and wit kept everyone listening to her stories and clamoring for her attention. She had made it a point to come to see them at least once a year for many years. Madeline thought she might be eighty now. It had been ten years since they had seen her, but they still corresponded regularly.

August 1st, 1889

Dear Brian:

I have been remiss in not coming to see you, but I have old bones now, and they do not allow me to do the things I once so enjoyed. The plantation is no longer the fine place you once saw, it has withered as I have. However, we still carry on. But, now to my request; you once saved my life by saving my child's life. There is trouble at our homestead. You are the only one I feel I can trust,  so once again, I am asking you to save my life. Please come to Belle Magnolia.

Your faithful friend,

Belle

After reading the telegram aloud to Jonathan and Hugh, she asked, "Gentlemen, have you ever been to New Orleans?"

The End

Dear Reader:

Thank you for reading, every author appreciates that you took the time to read their novel. An Indie author, however, is particularly grateful for they know you have taken a chance on reading a work from an unknown author.  If you enjoyed this book, I hope you will consider writing a short review, reviews are incredibly important for a new author.

I am currently working on the fourth in the Madeline Donovan Mystery Series. Please join me in following Madeline's journey to fight crime, find love, and conquer her addictions.

All my best,

Madison Kent