Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's (Part Two) Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill Chapter One __________ David Grantland met William and Julia Huddleston in El Pano. They had arrived to see their first grandchild. "Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Huddleston," he said. "It is nice to see both of you again." Julia sensed how awkward he had to be feeling. Ever so gracious, she took his hand and smiled warmly. "Why Reverand Grantland, how kind of you to meet us at the station." William shook David's hand. "How are you Reverand?" he asked. "I'm well, thank you. Please call me David. I've reconciled myself to the fact that Christy was meant to marry Neil, and not me. H! e truly loves her, and I can see that she truly loves him. It does not hurt so much any more." David smiled and said, "let me get your bags." "You'll need some help, I fear. Julia never travels light." "William" said Julia, "how could say that to David?" "It's the truth, my love," said William with a chuckle. Julia arched her eyebrow, and smiled at him. The trip to Neil and Christy's cabin seemed endless to her parents. At last, they crossed the creek and David stopped Jeb's wagon at the base of the hill in front of the cabin. Neil was standing on the porch ready to greet them. "Welcome" he said. "How was your trip?" "Much too long" said William laughing. Neil smiled. He knew they were excited and wanted to see the baby. "Please come inside. Christy and the baby are sleeping, but I am sure she will be up momentarily. Julia marveled at the changes. Neil had added an addition on the back of the cabin. Their bedroom was do! wnstairs now in the room that used to be Neil's laboratory. Christy heard voices and rose from her bed. She looked upon her son. He was sleeping peacefully, having recently been fed. She checked herself in the mirror, and brushed her hair, putting in a ribbon to keep it neat. She had a special glow about her, which she couln't see but anyone who looked at her was aware of it. She came out of the bedroom and ran to her parents. "Momma, Daddy" she said, "I'm so glad that you are here!" "My little miss" said William softly, with tears in his eyes. His little girlie was now a mother herself. Julia hugged Christy first, then William embraced his daughter. It was very moving to watch their reunion. "How are you feeling, dear?" asked her mother. "Fine as frog's hair" Christy replied. Julia was startled at her reply. Neil laughed at the expression on his mother-in-law's face. Christy chuckled. "I'm fine, Momma. My doctor is taking excellent care of me and! our son." David was struggling with one of the trunks. Neil went to help him carry the trunks in from the wagon. Three days before their arrival, Neil planned to put his in-laws in the upstairs bedroom he and Christy had used before the addition was complete. "That is unwise" said Alice. "Why?" he asked. "Neil, thee does not want to have to carry the trunks up the stairs, believe me. Julia sent half of Asheville for thy wedding. What does thee think she will bring for the christening of her first grandchild?" "I didn't think of it that way" said Neil. "Trust me" said Alice. Later that afternoon, David and Neil dismantled the bed in the loft and set it up in the other new room. Alice hung up curtains on the windows. A chiffarobe was moved in and Alice put hangers in it's closet. She made sure that the room looked welcoming for Christy's parents. A vase of wildflowers would be set on the dresser on the day they arrived next to a pitcher and bowl. As Neil carried a trunk into the room he was grateful for Alice's foresight. He wondered what Julia could have possibly brought from Asheville that would need three trunks. He would soon find out. David said good-bye to everyone because he had to return the wagon to Jeb Spencer. "Tell Jeb I appreciate his kindness" said Neil. "I will" David replied. "I will see you all on Sunday morning." Neil went into their bedroom to check on his son. Ned was awake, so Neil gently picked him up and wrapped him in a soft blanket. "It's time to meet your grandparents, son" he said gently. He carried Ned out to Christy. "Momma, Daddy, meet Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill" she said proudly beaming at her husband and son. "Oh, Christy, he is so precious" said her mother. "He takes after his father" said William. Both took turns holding their grandson through! out the rest of the afternoon. Julia wanted to empty their trunks. One was full of things just for the baby. Christy sat down in a chair as her mother unpacked the one trunk. There were baby clothes, bottles, diapers, Mother Goose books, storybooks, two food mills to be used when the baby began to eat solid food. "You can puree your own fruits and vegetables, Christy darling. It will be healthy for the baby." There were stuffed animals, a baby lamb, and a soft teddy bear. There was a set of painted blocks with the alphabet and numbers on the sides. Christy looked helplessly at Neil. Knowing his wife was being overwhelmed by her mother, Neil led her into the parlor and made her sit on the couch. The Huddleston's followed. Alice had come over earlier in the morning. She had made fried chicken for their dinner, because she didn't want Christy to have to be bothered cooking in the evening. Alice chose not to stay, because she didn't want to take away for Julia's time with the baby. She herself had been over at the MacNeill's almost every day since Ned had been born. Ned began to fuss, Christy left them all so she could feed the baby privately. Julia followed her, and asked if she would mind the company. "I wouldn't mind, Momma" Christy replied. Julia watched her daughter and grandson, finally accepting that her daughter had grown up. Their relationship would enter a new phase now. She still wished they lived in the city rather than the Cove. Some things would never change. ............................................. Christy sat on the swing Neil had put on the front porch of the cabin. Slowly rocking back and forth, she began to think with great joy about the wonderful memories she was creating as Neil's wife. How she loved Neil! He was so thoughtful. She had told him about the swing in her mother's rose garden and how much she loved to swing on a summer's day. Built by Jeb and Neil, this porch swing was large enough t! o hold the two of them, with room for a child as well. It had a nice high back and arm rests on the sides. Many a fine summer night had seen the two lovers embracing and kissing, slowly rocking back and forth in the stillness of the evening. She sighed with contentment and closed her eyes. A few minutes later Neil joined her with the baby. He sat on the swing. She took the baby from Neil and settled herself within her husband's embrace. She cooed at her son, with his big blue eyes and reddish blond curls. Ned was so like Neil, who then kissed the top of her head as she began to nurse the baby. Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill had come into their world like a miracle and had changed them forever. Neil didn't think Christy could ever become more beautiful, yet she had. Motherhood imbued her with a special glow. How he loved her! Neil thanked God every day for bringing Christy into his life. She sighed quietly and watched her baby. It was hard to believe that he was eight weeks old already. Her parents had stayed for two weeks after Ned was born. They were delighted to be grandparents. The christening went well, David preached a beautiful sermon. Opal and Jeb were the godparents. Well wishers came from all around the Cove. Miss Alice knew that both Christy and Neil wanted to keep in simple, and it was all they hoped it would be. Ned wad cuddled by many of the ladies of the Cove, and Ruby Mae was delighted when Christy asked for her help with the baby. After Ned had finished feeding, Neil took the baby in his arms to burp him. How he loved to hold his son! His heart was overflowing with love for this tiny infant. The baby had brought such joy into their lives. After the baby fell asleep, Neil placed him on the table in a large, open basket that had been lined with soft flannel and a baby quilt. After gently covering his son so as not to wake him, Neil returned to sit next to Christy on the swing. Holding her in his arms, he kisse! d her gently at first, then with more ardor. It was a promise of things to come later. Christy hugged him tightly. She was happy to be able to make love with Neil again. "Neil " she reflected, " we've made so many changes this past year. The garden was abundant, we had a good harvest. Thanks to Opal's teaching I know how to can vegetables and fruits and how to make jelly. I can't believe that Mother brought 25 pounds of sugar with her when they came to see the baby." Neil agreed with her. " I carried the trunk." They both laughed at the memory. "It's hard to believe we've celebrated our first anniversary together." Neil remembered the memorable meal they had cooked together, roast chicken and blackberry cobbler. Nothing had burned this time. "The year has certainly gone by quicker than I ever thought it would." "Yes" she agreed. "Your first Thanksgiving in Asheville when you met Grandmother Rudd and all my other relatives. My parents coming here for C! hristmas. When I resumed teaching after the Spring planting break I knew my time was limited with my school children." "I knew that you would be upset, Lass. You will still play a vital role in the Cove. Adult education classes are needed, and you will always have contact with the children. Why not a day goes by when one of them doesn't stop by on their way to or from school to see you and the baby. Ruby Mae continues to serve as the pipeline for information throughout the Cove. I don't know how she does that." "Then Ned was born" Christy said. "There are times when I cannot comprehend how this miracle could transfrom me. He mesmerizes me. His body is perfect, so tiny. His eyelashes are so long, he has your blue eyes, Neil. His finger and toes are so tiny, and his nails are so delicate. I just love him to death! I love spending every minute with him. And when you hold him, Neil, I could weep for joy. I love his fussing, cooing, crying." "I love to hold him" said Neil. "I love to talk to him and watch him as he becomes aware. Every day he changes and it truly is a miracle to behold." The baby responded to them both, sensing their utmost love and devotion for him." The End of Chapter One ************************* Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's (Part Two) Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill Chapter Two In August, a little over a year since Ned had been born, Christy asked Neil to teach her how to swim. "Neil dearest" she said, "we live near the water. Opal and Mary and Rebecca have been giving me so much advice that I develop a headache as soon as they start to say something. But one thing they said really has bothered me. They warned me that toddlers move like lightning. In another few months, Ned is going to run me ragged. Neil, if he goes near the water alone, and you are not home, I don't know what I would do. Please, please teach me how to swim. Mother has sent me a bathing costume. Ben Pentland brought the package today." She showed Neil the contents of the package. Neil wanted to laugh out loud. What was his mother-in-law thinking? Most people skinny dipped or swam in their skivvies. The thought of his precious wife in black stockings, bloomers, tunic and a hat -- well it took all of his control not to roar with amusement. Trying to be as serious as possible he said " Of course I'll teach you, love. You may even come to enjoy it. It can be a fun to spend a few hours swimming on a lazy, hot, summer's day. We'll arrange for Alice to come and watch Ned while we start your lessons." The day of their first lesson arrived. Alice almost choked at the sight of Christy in her bathing attire. "I must have swallowed wrong" she said as tears filled her eyes. "Go now the two of thee and begin thy lessons. I'll take care of my grandson." She coughed again to hide her mirth. Holding Christy's hand, Neil led his wife out into the Creek towards a deep pool. He began to teach her by showing her how to tread water. As their lessons progressed over the next few days, she became more confident. Soon she had mastered floating. It took all of Neil's iron will not to guffaw at Christy when she was all wet. By the second week, she began to swim. "This is actually quite refreshing, Neil." "It's been a pleasure teaching you, love. You're a wonder." "Thank you. I feel better and safer already." "There is only one more thing I need to show you, Lass." "What is that?" "This" he said, and he dunked her head under the water. "You Beast!" she spluttered, rubbing the water from her eyes. "If you say so, love." Neil roared with the laughter he had tried to contain for so long. Christy splashed him. He splashed back. Soon it became a full scale water battle, finally stopped by a shrill whistle from Miss Alice. "Miss Alice, who taught you to whistle like that?" Christy asked giggling, as she wiped the water from her face. She looked like a drowned rat. "Creed Allen" replied Miss Alice smugly. "Thy child is hungry, and not happy being away from the two of you." Christy waded through the water, followed by Neil. Alice laughed at the sight of the Cove's respected doctor and former teacher. It was hilarious to look at them. The bathing costume was the most ridiculous outfit she had ever seen. Only Julia could send her daughter such a "modest" set of clothes. "Thee are both a sight to behold" she told them. Christy ran inside the cabin to quickly change. Neil followed slowly, laughing with Alice. "Oh Neil" said Alice quietly, "if Christy had any idea of how utterly silly she looks, she would be mortified." "It will be our secret, Alice" said Neil and he winked at his mother-in-law as he followed his wife into the cabin. ..................................... "Neil, we have a pixie on the loose!" giggled Christy as she unsuccessfully grabbed at her son as he escaped from his bath. Ned was running from his Momma, naked as a jay-bird, giggling and laughing. He scurried away, trying to elude his Poppa as well. Neil was tricky and managed to scoop up his wet, soapy son and return him to his warm bath water. "You're as slippery as an eel" laughed Neil. Christy looked a sight. Tendrils of wet hair framed her face, and her apron bib had more wet spots than dry ones, for Ned loved to splash his hands in the water. "I just need to rinse him off, Neil." "I'll hold him." Ned wriggled and squirmed like a fish on a line, but he was held in place by his Poppa's big, gentle hands. Christy rinsed his hair of soap and then grabbed a big towel that had been warming by the fire. Neil lifted his son out of the washtub and Christy wrapped him in the soft warmth of the towel. She rubbed him completely dry, as Neil emptied the tub. She looked ruefully at the water all over the floor. "I won't have to scrub the kitchen floor" she laughed. Christy was almost as wet as her son. The bathtime ritual usually ended with Neil dressing their son for bed while Christy changed into dry clothes. She then combed Ned's errant curls. 'How he resembles Neil' she thought, as she kissed and hugged her son. ............................................. Early one afternoon in the Spring, Bird's Eye Taylor came to see Neil. He had a sore on the nape of his neck that was irritating and painful. "It's a boil" Neil told Bird's Eye. "Caint ya dig it out?' "No, if I lance it the infection might spread. Come inside and let me fix up a poultice." Neil called to Christy. She put Ned in his playpen and went to see Neil. "Hello, Mr. Taylor" she said, "how are you?" "I got me a sore on my neck. Came to see the Doc. How be you and your youngins?" he asked. "The baby's due in June, and Ned's growing like a weed" she laughed. "Christy, could you please make Bird's Eye a cup of sassafras tea?" Neil asked. "Certainly" she replied. Neil led Bird's Eye to the area of the cabin reserved for patients. He had him sit down on a wooden chair. He needed hot water to make the poultice. When the kettle boiled, Christy brewed the tea and brought the kettle to Neil. He took powdered slippery elm bark and mixed it with the hot water to make a thick paste. He applied this to the boil and covered it with a cloth. "I'll have to repeat this a few times over the next couple of hours" Neil told him. The taciturn mountain man was not happy about this, but the painful boil needed to be removed. When Christy realized that the procedure would take the entire afternoon, she altered her dinner menu. She prepared instead a very hearty soup with beans, ham, barley and vegetables. She baked a cornbread. Ned woke up from his nap and called to his Momma. She brought him to Neil. Bird's Eye's stoic face softened when he saw Ned. Perhaps he remembered Lundy at that age. Ned looked up at him and said, "up." Bird's eye sat there looking at Ned. The toddler lifted his arms toward him and again said "up." Bird's Eye picked him up gingerly and sat Ned on his lap. Ned was fascinated by his beard. All three adults laughed. Conversation flowed a little more easily because of the toddler's presence. Neil re-applied the poultices three more times during the course of the afternoon. Finally the boil came to a head and drained. Neil cleaned away the infection and pus. He put ointment and a bandage on the wound to keep it clean. It was supper time, and Christy invited Bird's Eye to stay for dinner, which he agreed to do, much to her surprise. He took his leave of them in the early evening. "I'm obleeged Doc. Evenin' Miz Christy." He ruffled Ned's curly locks and bid them all good-bye. "What a complex man" Christy said. "I don't think he is as harsh as he was before Lundy died." "He hasn't had an easy time of it" said Neil. "He'll never be as affable as Jeb, but I think we may see some changes in him." Early the next morning there were two rabbits, that had been dressed, hanging on the porch. Bird's Eye Taylor had paid for Neil's medical treatment. When Neil saw them, he smiled. Christy was still sleeping. Ned had started to talk, so Christy woke up and picked him up. She brought him back into the bed, and kissed him and hugged him. She felt tired this morning. Ned giggled at his Momma. She kissed his belly button which made him squeal with glee and giggle even harder. Neil found them laughing together. He came over and sat on the bed. He picked Ned up and kissed him. "Good morning, Lass." "Good morning" she said. He kissed her. "Bird's Eye left two rabbits on the porch." "I guess rabbit stew is on the menu tonight" she said. "Do you want dumplings or potatoes with it?" "Potatoes." "I think I'll make a pie." "I'll take care of the rabbits before I check on the Allen's." Christy got up and took Ned from Neil. She washed his face and changed his diaper. Then she washed her face and unbraided her hair and started to brush it. Neil took the brush from her and took over the job. He then turned her around to face him and he kissed her. "I'll make coffee" he said. She dressed quickly and brought Ned into the kitchen. She put him in the playpen while she prepared breakfast. Neil retrieved the milk and butter from the spring house. They all enjoyed a breakfast of pancakes. Neil took care of the rabbits for Christy and then went out on his rounds. Christy began her chores. The End of Chapter Two.................................................. Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's (Part Two) Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill Chapter Three Neil and his son enjoyed many special times together. Ned had inherited his father's keen eyesight, even though Neil now needed glasses for fine print reading. They would take walks together all over the MacNeill property. Neil would point out animal tracks on the ground. They would look at trees and observe the different kinds of leaves. Neil taught Ned how to fish, at first Ned just used worms. He loved to watch his Poppa fly fishing, and couldn't wait until he was old enough to learn the technique. Christy sat and played with her son. Using his wooden blocks, she taught him the alphabet. She also taught him how to count. They! had established a nightime ritual. After washing up and putting on his nightshirt, Ned was read stories after he said his prayers. He loved to sit on his Momma's lap and hear her read. On really special nights, Neil would read to him or tell him a story. Then he would be tucked in bed and kissed good night. Catherine was a mystery to him. He called her Cat because he thought she sounded like a kitten. She was so tiny when she was born. His Momma had told him that he was just as small, but he didn't think so. His father told him that he was a big brother now, and that he would have to look after his sister. In the beginning she didn't do very much but eat and sleep and cry. Momma was always washing diapers. She told him she had done the same for him, but he didn't remember that. Cat had learned to walk, and she loved to run. Her head was covered in curls that bobbed whenever she ran. Sometimes it was hard to catch her. Once he accidently pushed her and she fell down. Poppa hadn't yelled exactly, but he was warned that he had to be careful around his sister. There were different rules for girls, someday he'd figure them out. Today, he was sitting on his swing by the river waiting for his Poppa. Momma used the swing a lot, holding Cat on her lap, while he fished with Poppa. But Cat was squirming a lot, and Momma was going to have a new baby soon. He asked his Poppa about getting a new puppy, but Poppa said the baby was on its way. It was growing inside Momma. He didn't remember too much when Cat was born. She just appeared one day. Granny Alice came one day and then he had a sister. Then everbody came to see the baby. Momma said the same thing happened when he was born, but he didn't remember. Mountie, Lulu and Clara loved to stop by and see Cat and Momma. Ned liked it when Sam Houston or Burl came by the cabin. They helped Momma with her garden and Poppa with the animals. Poppa told him he would teach him how to do some of the chores. It made him feel important. Neil observed his son from across the river. Ned was looking downstream watching a hatch rise on the water. Neil and Duke crossed the stream. Ned looked up at his father. "Poppa, can we go fishing?" "It seems like a good day for it, son." "If we catch any, can we keep them?" "Only if your Mother wants trout for supper. Otherwise, it's catch and release." Neil brought Duke up to the barn. Ned helped his Poppa care for the horse. Ned brought Duke fresh water and oats. Neil shaved and went looking for Christy. Both she and Catherine were taking a nap. From the looks of the kitchen, she was planning on cooking ham for dinner. He hoped Ned would not be disappointed. "It's catch and release today, Ned. Momma has dinner planned already." They took their poles and walked down to the water. Ned worked from the bank, while Neil waded. "Remember son, pick your fish and time its rise from the water. Then cast a few feet above the stream before the fish rises." It took Ned a while to get the rhythm of the cast, but soon he hooked a ten inch brook trout. "Very good, son. Now carefully let him off the hook." Father and son enjoyed an excellent afternoon of fishing. Christy watched them from the porch. Neil looked so relaxed. Ned loved being with his Poppa. She was lucky, Ned was so good with his sister. Catherine could be a handfull at times, but she adored her big brother. In a few months they would have a new baby. Dinner tonight would be fried ham and sweet potatoes with fresh spring greens. Catheine woke up and came to see what Christy was doing. "Would you like to help Momma make dessert?" Cat nodded. "We're going to make blackberry pudding for Poppa. It's not the same as his favorite cobbler, but he'll be happy just the same." There were five biscuits on a plate. "Cat, could you crumble those biscuits for Momma?" "Yes, Momma." She proceeded ! to break them up into little pieces. Christy mixed a quart of her canned blackberries (but not before Cat filched a few to taste) with some sugar, butter and water and brought them to a near boil in the dutch oven. Then she took the crumbled biscuits and added them to the berry mixture. "Now we'll put this in the oven until it's nice and thick. Won't Poppa be surprised! It's our secret!" Catherine nodded solemnly. Christy ruffled her daughter's curls. "Let's find Poppa and Ned." They walked down to the river and sat on the swing. Christy started to swing back and forth, and for now, Catherine was content. In another few weeks, she would no longer be able to do this with her daughter. "Momma, I caught three fish." "Good for you, Ned." "We released them. That's going to make them harder to catch again." "I know. You'll have to keep getting better to catch them. You are casting very well now, Ned." "Thanks, Momma. Poppa said so too." ! "Practice makes perfect, son. That's why I have to keep practicing as well," Neil said as he waded back to the bank. "Carry me Poppa," said Cat. Neil removed his fishing vest. He didn't want Cat to get hurt on a fish hook. Christy took it from him. Ned carried his fishing pole, as Neil hoisted his daughter on to his shoulders. She was laughing with glee. "Momma," Ned told her, "one of my fish was about ten inches long. Poppa said so." "It was a fine catch, Ned," said Neil. "If you're both as lucky next time you fish, we'll have trout for dinner," Christy said. "Luck!" scoffed Neil. "It takes skill, being crafty and good sportsmanship to catch a fish." "Yes dear. Skill and sportsmanship." Christy tried not to laugh. "You have to think like a fish." "I've always wondered what that would be like," Christy said. "I have to check on dinner." She went inside the cabin. The pudding was done, so she set the dutch oven on the counter to cool. "Let's wash our hands, Ned." "Down, Poppa, down." "Oh no, little one. You'll just want to play in the water. I know your tricks." Neil laughed, and carried his daughter on to the porch. "Let's find Momma." As they entered the cabin Neil said, "I smell something special. Cobbler, I hope?" "Secret," said Cat. Neil laughed. He picked up his daughter. "I could tickle the secret out of you." "No, Poppa." Neil looked at the counter. "No cobbler?" "Blackberry pudding," Christy said. "Goody" said Ned. "Who told you that you could like blackberries?" Neil asked his son. Ned laughed. "Poppa, you taught me to like them." "My mistake." Christy and Ned laughed, as she began to set the table for their dinner. ..................................................... Ned and his father worked for over a week making a paper kite. It was summertime amd today was a perfect day for flying a kite. Christy packed a picnic lunch of fried chicken and potato salad, fresh peaches and lemonade. Catherine had turned two in June, and she loved to ride on her Poppa's shoulders. Christy and Neil each held a handle on the picnic basket and Ned carried the kite and string that Neil had wrapped around a stick. They walked toward their favorite mountain meadow. They spread a quilt down on the meadow floor and Christy sat down with her daughter. Neil and Ned walked several yards away and began to launch the kite. It took several attempts, but then the kite caught an updraft and was soon aloft. Neil handed Ned the string covered stick and stood by his son giving him instructions. Christy shielded her eyes as she looked up into the sunlight to watch the kite. Catherine giggled as she ran towards her Poppa. Neil picked her up and twirled her around and around. He put his precious daughter down gently and whispered in her ear. "Let's pick some flowers for Momma." The two set off picking a bouquet of wildflowers for Christy. In the meantime, Christy was busy making a sketch of Ned flying his kite. When she finished it, she began to set out lunch. She called to Neil, who in turn helped Ned reel in the kite. Ned retrieved the fallen kite and joined his family for lunch. It was a perfect day to spend together. Christy savored the moment. She loved times like this. She cleared away the food and dishes. She washed the faces and hands of her children with a damp cloth. Neil was laying on the quilt on his side with his head propped by his hand and elbow. "That was a fine lunch," he said to Christy. She smiled and thanked him. Catherine was yawning. It was time for her nap. Ned was following a butterfly as it danced from flower to flower. Neil patted his side of the quilt. "Come here, Lass." Christy complied with a sweet smile adorning her face. She snuggled down next to him and enjoyed his nearness. She was pregnant again, due in September. He kissed her forehead. They were looking up at the sky. The clouds were big and white like tufts of whipped cream or cotton. Ned wandered back to the quilt. Christy picked out a cloud that looked like a bunny. Soon all three were calling out different objects and animals. Catherine had fallen asleep. Neil surveyed his family. On this glorious summer day, life in Cutter Gap was perfect. END OF CHAPTER THREE ******************** Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, the CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's Chapter Two / Part Four "Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill" ............................................................................................... For the first time since they were married, Neil left the door to his laboratory ajar. He was alone in the cabin when the telephone rang. His train of thought broken, Neil answered the call. It was Alice. There was an emergency at the clinic. She thought it might be appendicitis. Neil grabbed his saddle bags and was on his way. Ned came home from school, hoping to go fishing with his father. Catherine and Charlie were stopping by the Holcombe's. Momma had left a note saying she and the twins were at the McHone's. They would be home soon. He walked past his parents bedroom. The door was open. He looked into the room and saw that the laboratory door was slightly open. Curiosity got the better of him. He entered the normally locked room. He was repulsed and fascinated at the same time. Here was Poppa's research on the eye; charts, notes, specimens were all over the room in a very orderly fashion. Ned realized that his father was not only a doctor, he was also a scientist, trying to find a cure to help the people of the Cove. He began to read his father's notes. Most of it did not make sense to him, but he did understand part of them. He noticed a stack of papers and magazines. They were all medical related, and it dawned on him that his father had written articles for these publications. So absorbed in what he was reading, he failed to hear his Momma call to him. "You don't belong in here, Ned." "Momma. is he trying to find a cure?" "Yes." "He'll do it." "How did you get in here?" "The door was open, Momma." Christy remembered how she felt after she'd broken the lock in search of medicine for Miss Alice's bout with tetanus. "You'll have to tell your father what you've done." "Yes, Momma." Ned had an inquiring mind. He loved to hear Neil talk about treatments and surgical procedures. Charlie was forever bringing wounded birds and animals home to Poppa. While Neil was not a veterinarian, he would do the best he could. Ned and Charlie would watch in fascination. Neil had given up trying to teach Charlie about the natural order of life. Charlie had a soft heart like his Momma. He had a belief that his Poppa could fix anything, including wounded animals. Ned admired his father's dedication to the people of the Cove. He was a good doctor, and after seeing his father's laboratory, he could only imagine the amount of research his father had done. Ned decided he wanted to be like his father. Ned went off to do his homework. Neil came home well into the evening. The children were all in bed. "What was the emergency, Neil?" "Alice thought Swannie had appendicitis. She collapsed at the Mission with abdominal pain." "Neil, is she going to be all right? What about the children?" "The children came to the Mission from school. David went to get the older boys from home. They will stay at the Mission until Swannie is fully recovered. Nathan is off hunting again. Swannie had an ectopic pregnancy. The egg was not fertilized in the uterus, but rather in the fallopian tube. That burst, which is why she collapsed in pain. I had to remove it and repair the surrounding tissue. Alice was a godsend assisting me. I am sorry for Swannie's loss, her pain and discomfort, but her chances of getting pregnant again have been cut in half. Nathan abuses her and then takes off for months at a time. The family is in desperate circumstances. Alice will give the children chores, so they can 'earn their keep', so to speak. I imagine that the O'Teale's will have more food to eat and be the cleanest they have ever been during the next few weeks while they live at the Mission." "I'll have to stop by and visit with her, when she's feeling a little better," said Christy. Ned heard his parents talking and came out of his room. "Poppa, I need to talk with you." Christy left them together. "Poppa, I went into your laboratory today. The door was open." Neil wasn't sure how to answer his son. It was his own fault that the door was left open. "Do you have any questions for me?" Ned smiled. "Thousands of them, Poppa." Neil smiled and ruffled Ned's hair. "Let's start at the beginning, then." "Why are you studying the eye, Poppa?" "I study the eye because so many of our people suffer from eye disease." "Our people, Poppa?" "Yes, son, our people. The people of Cutter Gap, our friends and neighbors. This is our community. While families are fiercely independent, stiff-necked and proud, most people will look out for each other when the need arises. Trachoma can cause blindness, like Aunt Hattie's. Life is hard enough here, adding blindness just makes life even more difficult. If my research helps in any way to find a cure, I'll feel like I have made a difference, Ned. I know you have to get to bed now, it's past your bedtime. I'm not angry with you for looking in my laboratory. Your mother and I have always encouraged your curiosity to learn about new things and ideas. It was my fault for leaving the door ajar. I am proud that you came to tell me yourself." "Good-night, Poppa," Ned said as he hugged Neil. Neil kissed the top of his head. "We'll talk tomorrow, son." The next morning Christy insisted that Neil sleep in, while she made sure the children got off to school safely. End of Part Four ************************ Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, the CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's Chapter Two / Part Five "Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill" ................................................................................... "Poppa, when did you first notice Momma?" "What do you mean, Ned?" "When did you first see her as a possible wife?" Neil laughed. "The first time I saw your mother, she was disheveled, her straw hat was askew, and she was trying to dab blood from Bob Allen’s head wound with her dainty handkerchief. I asked her to step aside, but I was instantly trapped by her gorgeous blue eyes. I didn’t know at that moment that she had walked from El Pano with Ben Pentland. She looked and smelled like of breath of fresh air. I didn’t think about her as a wife then, but she had certainly caught my attention. Why do you ask, son?" "I don’t understand girls." "Either do I." "Poppa, don’t be silly. Of course you do." "No I don’t, Ned." "Poppa?" "Ned, quite honestly females were put on this earth to confound and confuse men. I mean it, son. No matter how hard you try, you can never get it right. You will never be able to win. That’s just the way it is. Trust me, Ned. I love your Momma with all of my heart, but there are times, son, when she gets mad at me because I didn’t react to a situation the way she thought I should. It’s something we men have to live with, Ned." Neil smiled ruefully at his oldest son. "Why the sudden interest in girls?" "I accidentally overheard Lucy Teague and Ellie Clay saying that I’d make a right fine husband one day." "What does that mean to you, Ned?" "Don’t rightly know, Poppa." "Well, don’t lose any sleep over it, son. You’re still a little young to be thinking about a wife." "I’m not thinking about marriage, Poppa. Why, I’m only twelve." "I’m glad to hear it, son. You still have time to make plans about what you want to do when you get older." "I know what I want to do, Poppa." "Really? What do you want to do with your life, Ned?" "Why Poppa, I want to be a doctor just like you." Neil looked at his son. "Why?" He could feel the tears welling in the back of his eyes. "Seeing your laboratory Poppa, made me understand your dedication to your research. Watching you take care of your patients impressed me. I want to be like you, Poppa. I’m going to study hard like you did. I am going to ask you lots of questions. The next time you have an emergency here, Poppa, can I watch you operate?" "I’ll be happy to answer your questions, Ned, any time. I’ll think about your other question, and let you know." One of Neil’s most precious resources was his volume of "Gray’s Anatomy." It was first published in the 1800's, and had been revised many times. It served as a standard reference book for Neil. It was over seven hundred pages in length. The illustrations were done in pen and ink. Sometimes he needed a magnifying glass to read the labels on some of the illustrations. He came home early one afternoon from the clinic and found Ned trying to read from the book. "Ned, you can’t read ‘Gray’s Anatomy’ like a novel. You are going to find that it is very difficult and technical to read. It would put you to sleep in half an hour. If you want to study human anatomy, I have other teaching aids to help you. We’re going to study the human body piece by piece. We’ll study bone structure, the skeleton, and you’ll learn the name of every single bone. We’ll study the organs, the senses, the circulatory system and the nervous and digestive systems. You’ll have basic anatomy well in hand by the time you start college. I will allow you to observe surgery. I will explain each step and why I am performing the procedures. If you show any sign of weakness or illness, you will have to leave. I will not be angry with you, Ned. Surgery is fascinating and repulsive at the same time. It’s not a pleasant experience. There are long hours of worry and anxiety. Most of the time, I do not operate under sterile conditions unless I am at the clinic or at home. When I have to perform surgery at someone’s home I know that I could lose the patient because of infection. Cleanliness and sanitary conditions are for the most part ignored in the Cove." "I know, Poppa. Thank you for agreeing to teach me." "You must not neglect your other studies, Ned. You will have to take an entrance test for college. You must have a solid education in all subjects. It will not be easy. You have set yourself a difficult course ahead of you, son. I have every confidence in you, Ned." "Thank you, Poppa. I will do my best. That I promise you." "Of that I have no doubt," Neil said, as he ruffled his son’s hair with pride and love. End of Chapter Five Title: The MacNeill's Chapter Two / Part Six "Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill" In the remaining weeks of summer, before Ned left for school, Neil, Ned and Charlie went scouting for property. Neil knew his family needed the mountains. They needed access to lands with creeks for fishing. He didn’t want to live so close to El Pano that the town intruded on their way of life. Christy needed her garden. Finally they found a perfect piece of land. It was almost two miles from town. A patch had been excavated for a house. The landowner had paid extra money to have city water and sewer lines extended to the property. The house had never been built because the man’s wife took sick, and they had to move to a drier climate. He wanted to unload the property and Neil was able to buy the acreage, upon Christy’s agreement and approval. Together, they began to look at house plans. Timber was readily available. Construction would begin in September. Neil would commute from the cabin, but only come home on the weekends. This arrangement made it easier for Christy to accept that Neil was correct in his assessment. She wanted her family’s life to be normal, whatever that was! Ned had been a rock during the remaining weeks. He felt guilty about leaving home and the family he loved, to travel hundreds of miles away. He wanted to support both his parents. Uncle David had been offered a parish in Virginia. The Mission would officially close at the end of September. Grammy Alice would live at the Mission in Cataleechie. Christy felt that she was too far away. It was a few more miles in distance from El Pano, but Alice was getting too old to ride through the mountains. She would never slow down, Ned thought, not until they put her in her grave. Momma seemed to be deeply affected by the move. Charlie was extremely concerned about her. He talked with Ned and Cat about it. Ned told them they needed to keep the younger ones in check. The twins were finally settling down. They looked upon the move with a sense of adventure. Amy Jean didn’t seem concerned. He noticed that Catherine was very quiet, but that was probably due to the fact that Luke would be leaving for college too. He admitted to himself that he hadn’t seen their attraction to one another, but after Church last Sunday, they went for a walk. He could sense Catherine’s excitement when they came back. Momma knew, but then, she had an inner beacon when it came to romance. It was like one of those lighthouses by the ocean. Apparently Uncle Jeb was looking long in the face at the thought of Mrs. Parker leaving the Cove. Ned didn’t understand why he had waited so long, maybe it was out of respect for the memory of Luke’s pa, or his own dead wife, Fairlight. Now that Luke was a man, about to embark in a new direction, Uncle Jeb thought it was time to court Mrs. Parker. Ned admonished his Momma that she’d better write to him every week about what was happening in the Cove. He wanted to know all the news. "That’s gossip," she told him. "Yes," he said with a twinkle in his eye, " and you learned that skill so well from Ruby Mae!" She tried to be stern, but looking up into the laughing, dimpled face of her son, Christy went with the flow and laughed with Ned. He was right, as usual. How she'd miss his teasing. Of course the biggest tease of the house would still be home. Ned had learned well from Neil. ............................................. Saying good-bye at the train station was one of the hardest things Christy and Neil had ever done. Ned was on his way to Pennsylvania. Neil had his arm around her, as she dabbed the tears from her eyes. His eyes were moist as well. The rest of the children were solemn. It would be months before they were reunited. "He’s going to be fine, Lass." She nodded. Ned was going to call them when he reached Philadelphia. His father had given both he and Luke a heads up of what to expect once they got to campus. On the train ride to Philadelphia, Ned was assailed by memories. When he returned home in Novemeber it would be to El Pano, not the Cove.Their new house was coming along. In seven weeks, they would be moving in. Ned had helped Neil transplant her rosebushes, so that she would still be able to enjoy them. Things were moving along faster that Momma really wanted them to move. Ned did call his worried Momma when he arrived. He was settling in to dormitory life. His roommate was likeable enough. Ned was overwhelmed by his course schedule. His father had warned him that it would be difficult. Dr. Jonathan Murchison was looking forward to his morning class. Basic Anatomy had a reputation for culling first year medical students. He was one of the strictest teachers in the school. His motto was to never smile before Christmas. He had the reputation of being a nit-picker and a curmudgeon. He loved it. Over the years he had carefully groomed this image. The fact that he was indeed a very kind and thoughtful man would tarnish his image completely. Looking over his class list, one name stood out and piqued his interest. Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill. Was it possible that one of his brightest students could have a son old enough to attend medical school? Thinking back, doing the math, he realized it was indeed possible. Ned was hurrying to his first class. He thought he had allowed himself plenty of time to get there. As he was walking along the street, just a few blocks from the college, he saw an elderly woman falter. She seemed disoriented, Running, he reached her before she fell. "Ma'am, are you all right?" She didn't answer at first, "I feel dizzy, young man." Ned looked around. Everyone seemed to be in a hurry. "I just need to catch my breath." He led her to a bench, and sat with her. "Do you need anything Ma'am? Shall I fetch a police officer?" "Oh no. I'll be all right. I should know better. My son cautions me all the time not to rush about so. I am not as spry as I used to be." Ned heard the college clock chime the hour. He was late for his anatomy class. Dr. Murchison's reputation was well known. Ned felt impending doom. No excuse would be good enough for his professor. The elderly lady studied him and saw his furrowed brow. "Young man, have I made you late for class?" " ‘Tis no matter, Ma'am. How are you feeling?" "A little better. I rush too much. My son always admonishes me to take it easy, but I am too old and too set in my ways to change. Could you please walk with me across the street to the bookstore? I can call home from there and a car will be sent for me. I am sorry that I caused you to miss a class." They slowly ambled down the avenue. "Ma'am, what kind of doctor would I be if I ignored your distress?" "You will become a very good doctor, young man. What is your name?" "I am called Ned, after my father, Neil." "Well young Ned, you have the compassion to be a wonderful doctor." "Thank you, Ma'am. If I am half the doctor my father is, I will be happy." "I do not think so, young Ned. You will be happy only if you can be the doctor your father is. If this morning is any indication, you are on the right path. Study hard young Ned. I hope that I will meet you again." She made her call. The chauffeur came to pick her up, and Ned realized he had no hope to make his class. Making his way to Dr. Murchison's office, Ned saw that his professor had office hours the next day, in the morning. He would make his apologies to his teacher then. Later that day, Esme Murchison welcomed her son for tea. He inquired after her health. "Dearest Jonathan, I had one of my spells this morning. I almost fainted. A young man helped me before I struck the pavement. I believe he is a student since he was carrying textbooks. He was very kind and gentle. When the clock tower chimes rang, I sensed he was upset. I caused him to miss his class. He would not leave me. He stayed with me until I felt strong enough to walk and telephone Drummond to bring the car around. His name was Ned, named he said after his father Neil. He has curly, unruly hair and sky blue eyes. His father is also a doctor. Jonathan, no one else stopped to help me. This young man did. I could sense his distress over missing his class, but he never showed impatience towards me. When I apologized to him for making him miss his class, he asked me what kind of doctor would he be if had ignored me? I am sure he has to take your class sometime, Jonathan. The patient comes first in his mind. I think he is going to make a wonderful doctor." "We'll see Mother, we'll see," said her son. The following morning Ned knocked on Dr. Murchison's office door. "Come in," he said gruffly. "Dr. Murchison, I am Ned MacNeill," he said firmly. I apologize for missing your class yesterday morning." "What is your excuse?" "As I was walking to class, sir, an elderly woman started to faint. I caught her before she fell, and stayed with her until she felt strong enough to walk again." "You mean to tell me you missed your first anatomy class because of an old woman?" "Yes, sir." "If it happened again tomorrow, Ned MacNeill, what would you do?" "I would do the same, sir." "Good for you." Ned hadn't expected that answer. His father had warned him that Dr. Murchison was extremely strict and demanded the highest standards from his students. The fact that Neil had been one of his brightest students would not influence the professor in any way. Ned would have to prove himself in every class, that he had what it would take to be a good doctor. "Sir, what did I miss in class yesterday?" "The first one hundred pages of the text. Had you read them?" "Yes sir." "How many times?" "At least three, sir." "You are your father's son." "I hope so, sir." He was one of the best students to walk these halls. What are your plans for the future, Mr. MacNeill?" "I want to study the eye, sir." "You will be learning from the best, young man." "Yes sir." "How is your father?" "He is well, sir. He sends his regards. He also advised me to take all of the courses that you teach sir. I am not to slack off in my studies, sir. He also told me to tell you that in his opinion you taught him the most and prepared him for what being a doctor was all about. And I'm not just saying that to curry favor with you, sir. My parents plan to come and visit during homecoming weekend sir. My mother needs to know that I am surviving being away from home." Jonathan Murchison broke his cardinal rule and smiled a little. This young man, if he was anything like his father, had the potential to be a truly great doctor. His mother, Esme, was a very good judge of character. Looking up at young Neil MacNeill he said, "I hope that I have the chance to see them. Now young man, you have a lot of catching up to do. There will be a quiz tomorrow on the first two hundred pages of text. Be prepared to diagram and illustrate as well." "Yes sir. Thank you sir." Ned left the office, feeling as though he had dodged a bullet. As he left he passed a beautiful young woman coming up the stairs. She was petite like his mother, but her hair was strawberry blonde and her eyes were gray like storm clouds over the Smokies. The stairs were filled with the smell of roses, again reminding him of his mother. He looked back over his shoulder at the young woman ascending the stairs. Although she was in a hurry, the young lady had noted the young man as she passed him. He was tall and strong, his features were gentle. His blue eyes had a twinkle in them. His hair was a mass of wavy curls which made her want to pass her hands through them. She was startled at her errant thoughts. She quickly gazed over her shoulder and stared momentarily into his deep blue eyes. She quickly averted her eyes and hurried up the rest of the stairs. Knocking on the office door, she heard a gruff "Come in." Smiling, she opened the door. "Good morning, Grandpa. How are you this morning? Are you going to take me to lunch later?" Emily asked. "Who was that young man I passed coming out of your office just now?" "Ned MacNeill, a son of a former student of mine. Your father would know him, they were in classes together." "Ned is a funny name." "It's actually Neil Edward Duncan. Why the special interest, young lady?" "No special reason, Grandpa. I'll see you at twelve-thirty. I have to run." She kissed him on the cheek, and left the office. Neil Edward Duncan, she thought to herself. The names suit him. She smiled to herself and wondered how and when she would encounter the young man again. End of Chapter Six Disclaimer: The story of Christy belongs to the Marshall-LeSourd Family. This fiction is written for my own personal enjoyment. This story uses themes from the book, the CBS series and the PAX movies. Title: The MacNeill's Part Two / Chapter Seven "Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill" ......................................................................... Neil Edward Duncan MacNeill was homesick. He had so looked forward to his parents coming for homecoming weekend. He was saddened when his father wrote that because of the move into the new house, they could not travel to Pennsylvania. Momma had sent a care package of cookies, corn muffins and blackberry jam. Poppa had included peppermint drops. Letters from everyone arrived a few times a week. They were keeping Ben Pentland busy. He was doing well with his studies. Everyone thought he was a goner for missing Murchison’s first class. He’d scored a perfect grade on the first test. He didn’t know it of course, but Professor Murchison was impressed. The eminent teacher had thrown in a few trick questions. Neil had prepared his son well. Ned had studied anatomy for two years with his father, and felt confident. Murchison had his way of unnerving students; he prided himself on culling the herd. If you couldn’t make the grade in his classes, there was no point in going on. Ned MacNeill stood firm and did well. He’d formed some core friendships. They were all of the same mind set. They were here in college to learn, not to party and have a good time. Ned ignored the social scene. Getting drunk was not Ned’s idea of fun. He’d accompanied his father on night calls for the many injuries incurred by drunkenness. Before they left for school. Neil and Jeb took Ned and Luke aside and introduced them to the taste of moonshine. "If you can handle this, you can handle beer or gin. Just don’t be stupid and mix different drinks. You’ll get drunker than a skunk and have a bodacious hangover to boot," said Jeb. The boys laughed, but took the lesson to heart. Most of his free time, including evenings, Ned holed himself up in the Library, studying. He liked his roommates well enough, but didn’t care for the company they kept. Emily Murchison worked at the college as a file clerk. She’d turned eighteen and wanted to work. She didn’t want to get married yet. Her father and grandfather were both esteemed members of the faculty. She had no problem getting a job. Filing and typing were boring, but at least she was working. Work became more interesting when she realized that Ned MacNeill spent most of his time studying at the Library. One of her more onerous jobs at the library was filing catalog cards. She was assigned the Subject Catalog. She half suspected that the director resented her grandfather’s pressure to hire her. She had proved to be an excellent worker. But, there were so many extra cards to file in the Subject drawers! One afternoon the Library’s tables were almost filled to capacity. Papers were due and mid-term exams were approaching. Ned was searching for an empty chair. There were some near the Catalogs, but that area was a little noisy if students closed the drawers with more force than was necessary. He made his way toward the area. Emily decided to get his attention. She’d spent the last hour alphabetizing this stack of catalog cards. She decided to sacrifice a few. The chair Ned selected was at the end of a library table. He needed the room for his long legs. As he pulled the chair out, Emily made sure that he bumped her. She dropped about a dozen catalog cards. "Oh dear," she whispered loudly, as they fluttered to the floor. The cards fell as if they had been choreographed. Ned turned quickly and gracefully. "Pardon me," he whispered. "I am so sorry. Are you hurt?" She shook her head ‘no.’ He bent down to pick up the cards. So did Emily, and they bumped heads in the process. That forced them to look into one another’s faces. Blue eyes met gray eyes and their fate was sealed. Golden curly, unruly locks of hair fell over his forehead. Emily had to resist pushing them out of the way with her dainty fingers. She’d had that same thought the first time she saw him. She smiled at Ned, and he was a goner. He handed her the catalog cards. "Thank you," she said. "I’m Emily." "I"m Ned." "I know," she replied. She turned to the Catalog. She could feel the eyes of her supervisor, Miss Crabtree, boring into her back. She re-alphabetized the dropped cards, and proceeded to file the entire stack. Ned spent the entire afternoon looking at an open book, staring at words that made no sense, wondering to himself.....how did she know my name? End of Chapter Seven *See Author's Note in "The MacNeills Conclusion"