Who Does She Choose? Chapter One By SaraJane May 2001 Sarajane83@hotmail.com **************************************************************** DISCLAIMER: The characters in this story are not my own. They are from the novel Christy by Catherine Marshall and the CBS series "Christy". In no way is this story meant to infringe upon "Christy" rights, as this is purely non-profit, unpublished fan fiction. Catherine Marshal's story of Christy is owned by the LeSourd Family. I am in no way seeking profit or credit for her story. I am continuing the story of "Christy" for my own amusement only. Any additions in story line and characters were invented by the writer. Any similarities to other works of fan fiction are purely coincidental. I have attempted to play a little with the story before I saw Return to Cutter Gap, or Christy the Movie as it is sometimes called as well. I did have this typed up before I saw the first movie. (I have the rest rough-written in a notebook.) I thought the storyline of Margaret was good and bad, but I always wondered how they were going to resolve that issue. In RTCG, Dr. MacNeil simply says she passed away, so we don't know, and since that person in the book died before Christy came to Cutter Gap, well, that would have been an interesting question for Catherine Marshall. I have had a little fun with this so please; don't go taking everything I write so literal. Also, as in my short story, "Ring", I used experiences that happened to my pioneer family, stories passed down to me. The names of some characters mentioned are my ancestors. Incidentally, my father grew up with a family of Teagues down in Southern MO so I was tickled to see the character of Aunt Polly Teague. CHAPTER 1 Christy frequently cast her melancholy blue eyes downward as she walked aimlessly through the lush back woods, weaving to and fro, attempting to avoid stones and fallen branches. "Why didn't I decide to take a walk in more sensible shoes?" she thought to herself. The air held a fragrant perfume. Lodge pine hovered above, clean and crisp, like the disinfectant her mother used at home in Asheville. How she loved that smell. It was one of those summer mornings when the temperature was "just right", before the late morning would cover a heavy, humid blanket over the lush landscape. Still, under the trees one could always find relief from the heat of mid-day. During an early Spring walk over a year ago with Neil MacNeil, she and the doctor had found their way to the ancient ruts left by his ancestor's wagons meandering a path through the wilds of Cutter Gap: MacNeils, McHones, Taylors, Spencers and others, pushing their wagons through this mountainous land now seemingly forgotten by time. They made their way into the cove, but not out; well, not many. Today the people of the cove would just as soon put up signs saying "Do not enter, do not exit". Change would come slow to Cutter Gap, if at all. The low, melodious hooting of an owl in the distance as dawn broke gave a haunting echo as it seemed to vibrate against Christy's heart. Hoo-hoo, ….. hoo...hoo… as if to say, "Who…who…who"? Calmly asking her a question that she could not answer, yet beckoning her soul to explore her deeper feelings. Christy covered her ears. Not now, she thought, I need to know the mind of God for my life. A weariness set down upon her. How could life have become so complicated? Where she longed for peace there was turmoil. Yet Jesus had promised "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid". Here was her answer. Six simple words her missionary Uncle Myron had preached one day to her church congregation in Asheville. "Don't be afraid. Trust in God". Six words. So simple, yet so profound. Three hours ago Christy had awakened to the sound of voices down in the Mission house parlor. Sleep had eluded her until the wee hours of the night followed by an intense dream. A dream that brought confusion. Voices rose in loud whispers. Was someone crying? A man? Pulling her bedcovers aside Christy reached for her robe and put it on. Her feet automatically reached for the carpet slippers that she kept on the floor, the last removed before tucking herself into bed at night. She slowly opened the oak door of her bedroom leading out into the upstairs hallway. Ruby Mae slept in the bedroom across the landing but tonight Christy had no worries about Ruby Mae sneaking out of her bedroom to see what excitement was going on downstairs. Thank goodness she had volunteered to stay with Vina Belle Teague until morning while she waited for her young nephew, Mason, to arrive from El Pano. Ben Pentland would bring him up on the mountain as he had done with Christy that first night in Cutter Gap, almost two years ago, along with the "U-Nited" States Mail. Christy could smell the wood smoke from the fireplace. The mantel clock chimed. It was four a.m. Was someone hurt? In trouble? One of the children? Perhaps Margaret?. Her arrival had shaken Miss Alice and Dr. MacNeil dramatically, bringing a scared feeling into Christy's heart from the moment she saw her that day at the Tea House in El Pano. Scared for Miss Alice. Could a mother's heart continue to forgive and hope? Christy could not begin to put herself in Miss Alice's place and she felt sick inside knowing the woman she loved and respected was tossed aside by her daughter like yesterday's newspaper. She was scared even more for Neil. A man could endure just so much. She tried to understand, allowing herself, for a brief moment, to think of him as a man with needs and desires. She frowned. No, it was best to think of him as the much-needed physician of the cove dedicated to serving these fiercely loyal mountain people. How hard he had fought to forget Margaret those years and throw himself into his work only to have her boldly re-appear without so much as an apology or explanation. He possibly had begun to forgive Margaret, had given Christy an answer "mebbe" as they walked in the field grass that beautiful Sunday morning. Christy smiled as she remembered that Neil had placed a crown of mountain laurel on her head and shared a peaceful smile with her. Christy had pleaded with Margaret that Neil was a man worth fighting for, and it seemed Margaret had taken her advice, at least it looked that way that fateful day near Neil's cabin. This made her heart scared, too, but she didn't quite understand why. Christy made her way to the top of the stairs and listened, knowing she was eavesdropping but compelled, then held spellbound to listen because she had guessed right… the voices were those of Miss Alice and Dr. MacNeil. "Neil, is she dead?" Miss Alice asked anxiously. "No", Neil flatly answered. He began to speak again but couldn't get the words out, his eyes dropping salty tears down his cheeks, anguished sounds caught in his throat. Alice Henderson, though reservedly at first, placed a hand on Neil's shoulder. "Neil, thee must get a hold of thyself. Take a deep breath, let it out, and we'll talk. But first, I'm going to bring us something warm to drink". Miss Alice moved away from the hearth where Dr. MacNeil was sitting and calmly strode into the kitchen. The sound of a kettle and cups tinkled in the air. Alice was frightened by Neil's behavior. Was Margaret all right? She hadn't seen him act so since they thought Margaret had drowned in the river, each blaming the other for disappointing a woman they later found to be insatiable with life. Hold on to faith, Alice thought. Hold on. Neil was acting strange, withdrawn, and very emotional; he'd been too quiet, not brooding, but clearly unhappy. She did not feel any anger from him, though. Christy quietly stepped down a couple of stairs to view the parlor entrance. Her face held a worried frown again as she saw the doctor framed through the doorway. One light was lit and burning on the side table, otherwise the glow from the hearth fire cast a warm color behind Dr. MacNeil. He was quietly weeping, his head held by his left hand, elbow on his left knee. The hair on his head was damp, wind blown, and for one moment Christy was drawn back to the time by the river, in the moonlight, when she had reached out and brushed away an errant curl. He clutched what looked to be a letter? in his right hand and periodically looked at it, devastation mirrored in his face. Whatever news this letter held, it wasn't good. She had never seen him like this, and she had seen him near despair as he worked at getting a heart to beat in a child's chest again. How many times had she comforted one of the children in the classroom, like Mountie, many times after some great disappointment. If only he was a child… her natural instinct was to walk down the stairs and go to him, put her arms around him and tenderly draw him close and whisper gentle assurances in his ear that he wasn't alone and she was there for him as long as he needed her. He seemed so alone, yet Alice was there and so was God though perhaps Neil was not aware of it. Christy's legs were beginning to fall asleep, so she sat down, still within earshot's distance but clearly out of sight. Guilt pangs danced around her head telling her this was none of her business. If Neil had wanted to confide in her he would have asked for her at the door. She was his friend, his dear friend and if he had a notion to share his deep sorrow, he would sooner or later. This was reasonable and logical. But what does reason and logic have to do with love? With love? Christy thought. Christy looked up at the ceiling. Yes, I suppose I love him in a way, just as I love Miss Alice she thought to herself. The love born from God for His children. Water pooled in her deep blue eyes threatening to spill out. "Forgive me Lord, for listening in", Christy thought, "but just this once" she whispered as she settled against the wall to contemplate Miss Alice and Neil's conversation. She shivered. Miss Alice calmly walked back into the room and set a tray on the table near the fireplace though her heart pounded in her chest. Everyone expected her to be strong, relying on that God-given strength she always seemed to muster up but sometimes inside she felt her reserve slip to nothing more structured than a jar of Aunt Hattie's apple jell. She poured some tea into a flowered china cup, (her mother had always told her tea tasted better when you used china. It was one her few indulgences) and added some of Fairlight's sourwood honey. "Drink". Christy's lips curled into a slight smile. This was a first for Neil MacNeil. He was sitting there calmly having tea with Miss Alice. He looked at Alice and drank a healthy swallow and slowly took a deep intake of breath and let it out in a heavy sigh. He took out his handkerchief and wiped his eyes and face. His hazel-green eyes looked at Alice intently. He paused. He was back in control. "Alice, I need to talk to you about Margaret. She's not dead, nor is she gravely ill. In fact, at this very moment she's in El Pano with a man by the name of Jesse Childress, waiting to take the train to Knoxville and from there, who knows. I caught them together in my bedroom when I got back to the cabin at 2 a.m. this morning. Dan and I had been tending to Hartford Risinger's brother, Ralph. Last night he and Hartford were blowing up stumps with dynamite at the edge of his back thirty. I realize there was a full moon but that was just plain foolishness to be doing it at night. They had been drinking. The poor, dumb fool lit the end of the wick and when it didn't go off he came close to see why, and the dynamite exploded. Dan and I were at my cabin doing some late night research, had lost track of the time, when we heard the explosion. We found Ralph about 15 minutes later nearly dying at the very spot. I couldn't help him. He was far too gone. He didn't suffer long, I can tell you that. He died just after midnight. Hartford rode off with a jug of moonshine and Earl Teague spent most of the night looking for him. Ralph, as you know, was his only brother and they were very close. Dan went back to his cabin as I headed for mine. Neil began to jump ahead. You can't imagine my disgust as a man is blown to bits and dying, my supposed wife is throwing our marriage vows in my face, committing adultery and not for the first time. As God is my witness, I have remained faithful all these years, at first to Margaret, and then to her memory when we thought she had drowned in the river. And it wasn't easy for me, I was a young man, and I guess I still am, of sorts. I don't mean to hurt you Alice, but that's not the worst of it." Miss Alice's face was full of concern. She looked at the floor. How many times had her daughter chosen the wrong path. How many times would the Holy Spirit convict before He would choose to come no more? How many times had Alice, herself, blamed Neil when she knew the fault lie mainly in a daughter who's will was strong and defiant? She looked up to face Neil once more. "Margaret was furious when I caught her in a compromising situation last night. She acted like I was the one insulting her. But she didn't forget her manners, oh no. She decided to first introduce me to her lover. Margaret quickly gathered her clothes as this 'Jesse Childress' backed out of my bedroom, his bugged out eyes staring at me,and then at my gun on the shelf by the doorway. If he wasn't so pathetic I would have laughed out loud as he stumbled on his pant's leg and fell into the other room. He ran outside to saddle a horse, I would guess. Margaret laughed at me, called me a dumb hillbilly and said I may have been smart enough to get my medical degree but I was too dumb to recognize a scam when I saw one. After she was fully dressed she pushed me aside and grabbed her reticule on the kitchen table, took out a letter and said I had a big surprise in store for me. Alice, I have the letter right here. It's addressed to both Margaret and myself, from the Asheville County Courthouse. It's dated 3 years ago." CHAPTER 2 Chapter One: Christy is taking a walk in the woods, recalls the events a few hours before over-hearing a conversation between Neil MacNeil and Alice Henderson about Margaret. ***************************************************** Chapter Two "So it is thy letter which concerns thee so. May I read it?" said Alice as she reached for the letter. It seemed Margaret never thought to write her and she somewhat bristled. Again she needed to ask Neil about another of Margaret's missals. Well, that wasn't really true, this time. But it had been addressed to her Margaret and Neil, of course. Neil handed the letter to Alice, stood up and faced the fireplace, placed his hands on the mantle, his veins pronounced due to tension and exhaustion. He further ran his left hand through his hair, then playing with the too-long stands at his neck. He was then very still. Christy was having a terrible time with her conscience now. This was wrong, she shouldn't listen, but what was in that letter? No one could possibly have the willpower to move from that spot. For a second she thought of Ruby Mae. Yes, she felt like Ruby Mae. Red hair and all! While Christy hoped that her manners would rub off on Ruby Mae, it seems Ruby Mae's had rubbed off on her! Then Christy heard Alice clear her throat. Christy ashamedly craned her neck a little farther so she could hear. "It's addressed to Dr. Neil MacNeil and Miss Margaret Seebohn Henderson. That's odd." Alice continued aloud. : "Dear Dr. MacNeil and Miss Henderson." "Our county clerk was recently ordered to review marriage licenses filed in the last decade in our Asheville office. Your records were found to be included in that search. Last month, one of our Circuit Court Judges, Anders L. Roisum, was indicted on three hundred and nine counts of fraud and his license to practice law was permanently revoked. His charges were most grave. Among other things, it was discovered that Mr. Roisum's university credentials were fabricated in entirety thus annulling his law license, subsequent judgeship, and a myriad of other distinguished titles. The ramifications are disastrous. We regret to inform you that the marriage license and ceremony witnessed and performed by Mr. Roisum for you and Miss Henderson is legally null and void. Legally, you understand, and we emphasize the word "legal", here, there was never a marriage. We further make apology to you and any children born of this marriage, as you no doubt may have concern as to their legitimacy. We assure you this office will do everything in its power, upon your recommendation, to correct this grievous mistake. We are willing to undertake the expenses for a new license and will cover any court fees associated to perform a new ceremony. This agency is requisitioning funds for travel should you need assistance. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or my assistant, Andrew Martin at the Courthouse in Asheville. Yours most humbly, Judge Major L. Hunt, Asheville." "It is dated over three years ago", said Alice, who was now looking up at Neil. Neil turned and looked down at Alice. "Alice…yes, it was written over three years ago. Both seemed to want to repeat that fact, it was so incredulous to them. I don't know how Margaret even got a hold of it. It was addressed to us here in Cutter Gap." Neil looked calmly at Alice. Alice stared because she was at a loss for words and was doubly amazed at Neil's calmness. "It's funny", she thought to herself, "how many thoughts can go through your mind in just a matter of seconds. I suppose he's just exhausted emotionally and there's nothing left to muster. At least, not right now." Alice felt numb. Christy sat dumbfounded. "He's not married. He never was married, and I tried to encourage Margaret to try and make a go of her marriage, when Margaret knew all along they really weren't married" she thought to herself, "I feel like a fool. No wonder she thought nothing of being unfaithful." Neil continued. "What amazes me even more is how she could keep this astonishing news to herself." Now Neil's eyes began to glisten. "Three years, Alice. She let me think I was still her husband when she returned, let alone the agony we felt when she let us both believe she had drowned in the river. No doubt the drowning was to cover her leaving because she was no longer tied to me, and I suppose, by her lack of sharing the letter, not wanting to be. She could be rid of the hillbilly doctor. In her melodramatic way, she was going to leave with a grand exit packing her emotional baggage at my door, letting me believe I had forsaken her; mistreated her. Alice, I'm at such a total loss on this…I feel so used, so devastated by it, I don't have any words to console you." "Console me", Alice thought, "Now there was another strange thing out of his mouth." Neil looked down and then slumped back to sit on the hearth, his elbows resting on his knees, his hands clasped loosely in front of him. The lines in his face now deeply etched, exhaustion permeating his expression of total weariness. In all her days Alice had never seen Neil looking so horsewhipped. Alice's mind was going in a hundred directions. She had almost exclusively blamed Neil for Margaret's unhappiness. Had he not stolen her daughter away, given in to her reckless ways? She started to speak several times but wasn't sure where to start. "Lord" she thought to herself, "I sorely need thy wisdom and understanding, and thy words. Tears also began to fall onto her ruddy cheeks. She was moved with compassion. "Neil" she said as she reached out to him, first touching his shoulder, and then his hands, but then pulling away at the awkwardness she felt. Christy watched as Miss Alice looked at Neil in silence. Neil MacNeil, her son-in law no longer. It was now her eyes were open to what injustices were done to Neil, and to herself. Yes, her sacrifices thrown in her face because her child was totally absorbed with her own wants and desires, using people for her own satisfaction and then throwing them to the wind to land where they may. Alice suddenly found her voice. "Neil", she said softly. "Thee and me hath been dealt a hard blow this day, to be sure. I cannot tell thee why Margaret did this evil thing, evil from the very pit itself." Neil sat there quietly and respectfully listening. He didn't agree with Alice often, to be sure, but of a kind he did respect her. Christy sat frozen to the stair step, her heart pounding so hard in her chest she was sure everyone could hear it. The Sunday school children's song was playing over and over in her head…"Be careful little ears what you hear, be careful little ears what you hear". She arose and moved softly from the stairway and made her way gingerly to her open bedroom door, going as quietly as she possibly could. "Oh Lord", she whispered in her smallest voice, "please be with Alice and Neil. Lord, help them get through this terrible time. May your will be done in their lives, even Margaret's life. In all of our lives, Lord. In Jesus Name, Amen." "Though it pains me deeply to utter it" Alice said as she was quietly crying, "could it be Margaret received the letter at thy cabin, or perhaps in the post office in El Pano, and, as you said, in a desperate move she faked her death to ensure our sympathies rather than risking rejection by you and condemnation by me? I can't believe that Ben Pentland didn't say something, after all, he may deliver the mail, but its contents are not sacred with him. Many a time I've had to strongly encourage him to refrain from sharing some tidbit he read on a postcard or gleaned from an address. Surely he would have noticed the return address." "Obviously this one made it past him," Neil countered. The chime on the mantle clock now struck five times. Had an hour gone by already? Taking the doorknob in her left hand she carefully closed the door shut after stepping inside. "Now I know." She whispered. A question came to her. Am I important enough to Neil that he'll share this news with me? Then what was most disconcerting was not so much she was important enough, but what if she was not? Christy suddenly felt as though the air in the room grew stale and pungent. Her heart started pounding and she began to gasp for breath. She needed to get some fresh air. "I'll just go take a walk. It will help me clear my mind," she said to herself as she discarded her robe and walked to her dresser. She poured water in the basin, washed her face, and then brushed her teeth. Quickly. She reached for the towel and patted her face dry, then laid the towel down and picked up her hairbrush. All the while her heart beating more and more. "I've got to calm down," she said to herself. She brushed her long, brown hair until the golden highlights glistened. "I think I'll just wear it down; I've got to get dressed and out of here. Looking in her closet she chose a soft blue gingham dress, one she didn't wear often. It was one of her plainer dresses and a little big on her. "If I'm going to be tired, I might as well be comfortable," she thought. Christy didn't realize how fresh and sweet she looked this morning, her cheeks rosy with emotion, and her hair flowing down her back like a young girl. The color of the dress brought out the blue in her eyes. Christy then slipped out the back door, successfully avoiding any contact with Miss Alice or the doctor. Back in the parlor Neil was ready to call it a night. Or a morning. "I don't know her reasons, Alice, but it's time we stopped blaming ourselves for Margaret's unhappiness and bad behavior. I've heard you caution the children that life is a series of choices, so choose wisely. We can sit her all day and night and speculate as to why Margaret is the way she is, but in the end, it is her choice. She knows the difference between good and bad." Neil reached over and took Alice's hands in his, stood up, and Alice followed his lead and stood. "From this moment on, we are free from the burden of Margaret's life. While I know you cannot "null and void" your role as her mother, I give you permission as one human being to another to let go. Today starts a new beginning. You know I don't understand your devotion to God, Alice. You think I'm a heathen, but you're wrong. You don't know what goes on in my soul. Only God knows. I choose to let go, Alice. I'm sick of the regrets and the bitterness and anger. It's time to let go, if it can be accomplished". Alice listened to Neil for the first time with her heart. "With God, Neil, nothing is impossible. I feel closer to thee this very moment then I have all these years. In our like experience, we are having fellowship. You see, two fellows in the same ship." "Perhaps". Neil dropped his hands and ran his hands through his hair. "Alice, I'm bone-tired. Can I stay here and get some sleep? I don't think I could make it back to my cabin, though Charlie knows the way, I'd probably fall off the horse. I need to consider if an emergency did arise, I'd be able to go". "Certainly, thee knows thee is always welcome at this mission". At that statement Neil raised an eyebrow. "Just give me a blanket and I'll lay out here on the floor. Or what about Grantland's bunkhouse?" "Oh, Neil. I am sorry. I cannot offer thee the bunkhouse. Since Reverend Grantland is away to Knoxville, we've allowed the Holcombs and Spencers use of the cabin. It's their grain and honey. They're loading it up on Tuesday to sell in Ashville and Kentucky way and you can hardly get through the door. No, Ruby Mae is away this night. You can take her bed. I'll bring up an extra quilt and water." "Please don't make a fuss, Alice. I've sometimes felt akin to Jesus, not knowing where to lay my head. I know her room". By the time he got the last sentence out he was already halfway up the stairs. Alice stared at him as he went thinking God had a funny way of working all things together for good. And that last comment of Neil's about Jesus. Neil's defense mechanism must be rock bottom as now he was speaking to her from his heart. "If peace would come to them, it would be by the grace of God" Alice thought as she gathered the quilt and water. Wearily she made her way up the stairs. Standing in front of the door of Ruby Mae's bedroom she lifted her hand and lightly knocked. No answer. Yet again. No answer. She opened the door and peeked her head inside. Neil was already sound asleep. She put the water down on the dresser and turned around and covered him with the extra quilt. How peaceful he now looked. She made her way to the door, opened it, stepped into the hallway and lightly closed the door. She walked across the hall to Christy's room. She listened. No stirring. Well, she'd let her sleep. After she made her way downstairs she wrote a note and left it on the table informing anyone that she and Dr. MacNeil were not to be disturbed unless it was absolutely necessary as they needed sleep after a difficult night. Alice then made her way to her cabin where she moments later sank gratefully under the sheets. Chapter 3 coming very soon. Who Does She Choose? By SaraJane May 2001 Sarajane83@hotmail.com **************************************************************** DISCLAIMER: The characters in this story are not my own. They are from the novel Christy by Catherine Marshall and the CBS series "Christy". In no way is this story meant to infringe upon "Christy" rights, as this is purely non-profit, unpublished fan fiction. Catherine Marshal's story of Christy is owned by the LeSourd Family. I am in no way seeking profit or credit for her story. I am continuing the story of "Christy" for my own amusement only. Any additions in story line and characters were invented by the writer. Any similarities to other works of fan fiction are purely coincidental. I noticed when I sent the first chapter through email; I lost most of my paragraphs and indents. Sorry…. I have written the next chapter for swoon affect. Chapter One: Christy is taking a walk in the woods, recalls the events a few hours before over-hearing a conversation between Neil MacNeil and Alice Henderson about Margaret. ***************************************************** Chapter Two "So it is thy letter which concerns thee so. May I read it?" said Alice as she reached for the letter. It seemed Margaret never thought to write her and she somewhat bristled. Again she needed to ask Neil about another of Margaret's missals. Well, that wasn't really true, this time. But it had been addressed to her Margaret and Neil, of course. Neil handed the letter to Alice, stood up and faced the fireplace, placed his hands on the mantle, his veins pronounced due to tension and exhaustion. He further ran his left hand through his hair, then playing with the too-long stands at his neck. He was then very still. Christy was having a terrible time with her conscience now. This was wrong, she shouldn't listen, but what was in that letter? No one could possibly have the willpower to move from that spot. For a second she thought of Ruby Mae. Yes, she felt like Ruby Mae. While Christy hoped that her manners would rub off on Ruby Mae, it seems Ruby Mae's had rubbed off on her! Then Christy heard Alice clear her throat. Christy ashamedly craned her neck a little farther so she could hear. "It's addressed to Dr. Neil MacNeil and Miss Margaret Seebohn Henderson. That's odd." Alice continued aloud. : "Dear Dr. MacNeil and Miss Henderson." "Our county clerk was recently ordered to review marriage licenses filed in the last decade in our Asheville office. Your records were found to be included in that search. Last month, one of our Circuit Court Judges, Anders L. Roisum, was indicted on three hundred and nine counts of fraud and his license to practice law was permanently revoked. His charges were most grave. Among other things, it was discovered that Mr. Roisum's university credentials were fabricated in entirety thus annulling his law license, subsequent judgeship, and a myriad of other distinguished titles. The ramifications are disastrous. We regret to inform you that the marriage license and ceremony witnessed and performed by Mr. Roisum for you and Miss Henderson is legally null and void. Legally, you understand, and we emphasize the word "legal", here, there was never a marriage. We further make apology to you and any children born of this marriage, as you no doubt may have concern as to their legitimacy. We assure you this office will do everything in its power, upon your recommendation, to correct this grievous mistake. We are willing to undertake the expenses for a new license and will cover any court fees associated to perform a new ceremony. This agency is requisitioning funds for travel should you need assistance. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or my assistant, Andrew Martin at the Courthouse in Asheville. Yours most humbly, Judge Major L. Hunt, Asheville." "It is dated over three years ago", said Alice, who was now looking up at Neil. Neil turned and looked down at Alice. "Alice…yes, it was written over three years ago. I don't know how Margaret even got a hold of it. It was addressed to us here in Cutter Gap." Neil looked calmly at Alice. Alice stared because she was at a loss for words and was doubly amazed at Neil's calmness. "It's funny", she thought to herself, "how many thoughts can go through your mind in just a matter of seconds. I suppose he's just exhausted emotionally and there's nothing left to muster. At least, not right now." Alice felt numb. Christy sat dumbfounded. "He's not married. He never was married, and I tried to encourage Margaret to try and make a go of her marriage, when Margaret knew all along they really weren't married" she thought to herself, "I feel like a fool. No wonder she thought nothing of being unfaithful." Neil continued. "What amazes me even more is how she could keep this astonishing news to herself." Now Neil's eyes began to glisten. "Three years, Alice. She let me think I was still her husband when she returned, let alone the agony we felt when she let us both believe she had drowned in the river. No doubt the drowning was to cover her leaving because she was no longer tied to me, and I suppose, by her lack of sharing the letter, not wanting to be. She could be rid of the hillbilly doctor. In her melodramatic way, she was going to leave with a grand exit packing her emotional baggage at my door, letting me believe I had forsaken her; mistreated her. Alice, I'm at such a total loss on this…I feel so used, so devastated by it, I don't have any words to console you." "Console me", Alice thought, "Now there was another strange thing out of his mouth." Neil looked down and then slumped back to sit on the hearth, his elbows resting on his knees, his hands clasped loosely in front of him. The lines in his face now deeply etched, exhaustion permeating his expression of total weariness. In all her days Alice had never seen Neil looking so horsewhipped. Alice's mind was going in a hundred directions. She had almost exclusively blamed Neil for Margaret's unhappiness. Had he not stolen her daughter away, given in to her reckless ways? She started to speak several times but wasn't sure where to start. "Lord" she thought to herself, "I sorely need thy wisdom and understanding, and thy words. Tears also began to fall onto her ruddy cheeks. She was moved with compassion. "Neil" she said as she reached out to him, first touching his shoulder, and then his hands, but then pulling away at the awkwardness she felt. Christy watched as Miss Alice looked at Neil in silence. Neil MacNeil, her son-in law no longer. It was now her eyes were open to what injustices were done to Neil, and to herself. Yes, her sacrifices thrown in her face because her child was totally absorbed with her own wants and desires, using people for her own satisfaction and then throwing them to the wind to land where they may. Alice suddenly found her voice. "Neil", she said softly. "Thee and me hath been dealt a hard blow this day, to be sure. I cannot tell thee why Margaret did this evil thing, evil from the very pit itself." Neil sat there quietly and respectfully listening. He didn't agree with Alice often, to be sure, but of a kind he did respect her. Christy sat frozen to the stair step, her heart pounding so hard in her chest she was sure everyone could hear it. The Sunday school children's song was playing over and over in her head…"Be careful little ears what you hear, be careful little ears what you hear". She arose and moved softly from the stairway and made her way gingerly to her open bedroom door, going as quietly as she possibly could. "Oh Lord", she whispered in her smallest voice, "please be with Alice and Neil. Lord, help them get through this terrible time. May your will be done in their lives, even Margaret's life. In all of our lives, Lord. In Jesus Name, Amen." "Though it pains me deeply to utter it" Alice said as she was quietly crying, "could it be Margaret received the letter at thy cabin, or perhaps in the post office in El Pano, and, as you said, in a desperate move she faked her death to ensure our sympathies rather than risking rejection by you and condemnation by me? I can't believe that Ben Pentland didn't say something, after all, he may deliver the mail, but its contents are not sacred with him. Many a time I've had to strongly encourage him to refrain from sharing some tidbit he read on a postcard or gleaned from an address. Surely he would have noticed the return address." "Obviously this one made it past him," Neil countered. The chime on the mantle clock now struck five times. Had an hour gone by already? Taking the doorknob in her left hand she carefully closed the door shut after stepping inside. "Now I know." She whispered. A question came to her. Am I important enough to Neil that he'll share this news with me? Then what was most disconcerting was not so much she was important enough, but what if she was not? Christy suddenly felt as though the air in the room grew stale and pungent. Her heart started pounding and she was began to gasp for breath. She needed to get some fresh air. "I'll just go take a walk. It will help me clear my mind," she said to herself as she discarded her robe and walked to her dresser. She poured water in the basin, washed her face, and then brushed her teeth. Quickly. She reached for the towel and patted her face dry, then laid the towel down and picked up her hairbrush. All the while her heart beating more and more. "I've got to calm down," she said to herself. She brushed her long, brown hair until the golden highlights glistened. "I think I'll just wear it down; I've got to get dressed and out of here. Looking in her closet she chose a soft blue gingham dress, one she didn't wear often. It was one of her plainer dresses and a little big on her. "If I'm going to be tired, I might as well be comfortable," she thought. Christy didn't realize how fresh and sweet she looked this morning, her cheeks rosy with emotion, and her hair flowing down her back like a young girl. The color of the dress brought out the blue in her eyes. Christy then slipped out the back door, successfully avoiding any contact with Miss Alice or the doctor. Back in the parlor Neil was ready to call it a night. Or a morning. "I don't know her reasons, Alice, but it's time we stopped blaming ourselves for Margaret's unhappiness and bad behavior. I've heard caution the children that life is a series of choices, so choose wisely. We can sit her all day and night and speculate as to why Margaret is the way she is, but in the end, it is her choice. She knows the difference between good and bad." Neil reached over and took Alice's hands in his, stood up, and Alice followed his lead and stood. "From this moment on, we are free from the burden of Margaret's life. While I know you cannot "null and void" your role as her mother, I give you permission as one human being to another to let go. Today starts a new beginning. You know I don't understand your devotion to God, Alice. You think I'm a heathen, but you're wrong. You don't know what goes on in my soul. Only God knows. I choose to let go, Alice. I'm sick of the regrets and the bitterness and anger. It's time to let go, if it can be accomplished". Alice listened to Neil for the first time with her heart. "With God, Neil, nothing is impossible. I feel closer to thee this very moment then I have all these years. In our like experience, we are having fellowship. You see, two fellows in the same ship." "Perhaps". Neil dropped his hands and ran his hands through his hair. "Alice, I'm bone-tired. Can I stay here and get some sleep? I don't think I could make it back to my cabin, though Charlie knows the way, I'd probably fall off. I need to consider if an emergency did arise, I'd be able to go". "Certainly, thee knows thee is always welcome at this mission". At that statement Neil raised an eyebrow. "Just give me a blanket and I'll lay out here on the floor. Or what about Grantland's bunkhouse?" "Oh, Neil. I am sorry. I cannot offer thee the bunkhouse. Since Reverend Grantland is away to Knoxville, we've allowed the Holcombs and Spencers use of the cabin. It's their grain and honey. They're loading it up on Tuesday to sell in Ashville and Kentucky way and you can hardly get through the door. No, Ruby Mae is away this night. You can take her bed. I'll bring up an extra quilt and water." "Please don't make a fuss, Alice. I've sometimes felt akin to Jesus, not knowing where to lay my head. I know her room". By the time he got the last sentence out he was already halfway up the stairs. Alice stared at him as he went thinking God had a funny way of working all things together for good. And that last comment of Neil's about Jesus. Neil's defense mechanism must be rock bottom as now he was speaking to her from his heart. "If peace would come to them, it would be by the grace of God" Alice thought as she gathered the quilt and water. Wearily she made her way up the stairs. Standing in front of the door of Ruby Mae's bedroom she lifted her hand and lightly knocked. No answer. Yet again. No answer. She opened the door and peeked her head inside. Neil was already sound asleep. She put the water down on the dresser and turned around and covered him with the extra quilt. How peaceful he now looked. She made her way to the door, stepped into the hallway and lightly closed the door. She walked across the hall to Christy's room. She listened. No stirring. Well, she'd let her sleep. After she made her way downstairs she wrote a note and left it on the table informing anyone that she and Dr. MacNeil were not to be disturbed unless it was absolutely necessary as they needed sleep after a difficult night. Alice then made her way to her cabin where she moments later sank gratefully under the sheets. CHAPTER 3 Christy had been walking quite a ways and quickly turned around to find her way back to the mission house. It was going to be a beautiful Saturday, weather-wise. "Coo-coo", Christy heard. It was a pair of morning doves. The gray feathers always looked so soft to her. "Coo-coo". As with the owls earlier, it sounded liked "Who, who?" Christy began to think to herself. "I better get back to the mission, I've got to get back", so she walked faster and faster until she was almost at a run. "Oh, these shoes!". Twenty minutes later the mission house was in sight. "Thank goodness. I should make breakfast, at least, for Miss Alice when she arises. Fairlight was so helpful to complete the laundry chores on Friday morning so that left Christy with just the typical Saturday morning chores, and some ironing. Ironing was relaxing. One could just stare and think. "That would leave me the afternoon to take a nice long nap". Christy smiled to herself. She'd work herself ragged so she didn't have the energy to think. She looked at the beautiful colors displayed around the building. Spring and autumn always displayed the most awesome painting of God's color palate on the cove. Recognition was displayed on Christy's face. That's what her dream had been about! Colors. She wasn't sure of the colors. In her dream she had been sitting with Fairlight looking out over the cove. Fairlight was just relaxing while Christy was creating a watercolor. Christy was working on the painting of a man, defining her subject, and then trying to add in the right colors. Fairlight came over to her and began to grow critical which made Christy discouraged. "You've made him too tall! Your husband ain't gonna be that tall. You'll have to start over". Christy, disgruntled, replied "I'm not starting over! I've put too much work into him". "Don' care if'n you has, Miz Christy. This be the most important paintin' of yer life, and I'm telling you straight out, the man you be paintin' is all wrong!" Christy considering her friend's suggestion. "All right, but no fair looking until I'm done, then you can say your piece." Christy began to work, at first with a studied frown, which later softened. She smiled. The brush flowed from the color palate over the paper. Her creative juices were flying. She dipped her brush into moss green, then yellow, then brown, now red, blue, and using the water to mute the colors, all except for the eyes. She was careful to show his eyes, the window of his soul. Those tiny flecks of color…what color was that? Eyes, which had a penchant for humor, teasing, and could show some fire when he was angry. Now the chin, just strong enough to exhibit that exasperating pride, but the hands open to what life had to offer, doing good for the folk in Cutter Gap. Christy was almost finished as Fairlight stood and stretched. "It's time". Christy kept working. "Well, are ya gonna let me see it? Fairlight smiled at her teasingly. "Yes," Christy said as she backed away a couple of steps, totally at peace with the picture. "This is it, Fairlight. It's done". In the dream, Christy couldn't see it anymore, but she knew who it was, there was no doubt in her mind as to whom she had painted. "Wa'll I'm surely glad ya finally made up yer mind", Fairlight dryly commented. Christy looked at her picture all dreamy-eyed and sighed…"It's David". Fairlight's forehead wrinkled and she walked quickly around the back of the watercolor and now looked at the painting. "Now Miz Christy, don't you be messing with me. That's a mighty fine picture of Neil MacNeil". And that was when she had woke up. If Christy felt anxious before, she was really in a bad way now. "What in the world was I dreaming that for? Imagine that!" She walked up to the mission house steps and took them two by two, and opened the door. She smoothed out her dress and walked toward the dining room where she saw a note on the table. That's where they were to leave notes for one another so there wouldn't be any more wild rides in the night trying to find out where someone was, usually Christy. She read the note and put it back on the table. It was almost 9:30 am. Miss Alice and Neil were still sleeping. It wouldn't be hard to get some work done since she wouldn't be disturbing Miss Alice in her cabin nor Neil in David's bunkhouse. What she needed to do was go upstairs and make her bed and get started on the ironing. Christy made her way upstairs and stopped in front of Ruby Mae's bedroom. The door was shut. "Is Ruby Mae back already?" she thought to herself. "If she's in there sleeping, at least she isn't downstairs making possum oatmeal surprise for breakfast." Christy made a face, then smiled to herself. Poor Ruby Mae. She tried so hard. After last night she was kind of feeling akin to her, at least, to one of her faults. Still, Ruby Mae's feelings could be hurt if she wasn't asked to help with breakfast. If she was too tired, she'd just let her sleep. Christy tapped on the door. "Ruby Mae?" "Ruby Mae?" No answer. She turned the door handle and opened the door. Ruby Mae was still sound asleep in bed. Or was she pretending? Christy thought to herself, "It's time for you to get up!" Christy walked over to her bed and began to jostle the blanket-covered shoulder. Ruby Mae turned and got up on one arm, but it wasn't Ruby Mae, it was Dr. MacNeil! Christy was so surprised to see Neil that she just stood there with her eyes staring and her mouth open with no sound coming out. Neil, half-asleep and half-awake, had felt someone touching him, but was kind of disoriented from being in a deep sleep. Christy knew she was in trouble from the start. Neil didn't have a shirt on, and it only brought back memories of when she had been watching him in the river and ruined their dinner. She knew she shouldn't have been watching then, and she certainly should not be looking now but curiosity got the better of her. She took in his broad shoulders and muscular forearms. She hadn't noticed that before. She remembered the hair on his chest, though. Neil spoke ever so softly, his eyes still closed, "Who is it? Who's there?" Christy began to panic. What should she do. She couldn't turn and run, could she??? She had waited too long. She swallowed hard and then meekly answered, "It's Christy". Neil moved his body back onto the bed until he was horizontal again. He was having this conversation in his sleep. "Christy", Neil stated, "how I wish I was one of your school children right now". Christy was intrigued. "Why is that?" "Did you say something? I can not hear you", Neil said in a far away tone. "You'll have to move closer". Christy looked around. She was scared to death, her heart was pounding, but she moved to the edge of the bed. "I said, why is that? Why would you want to be one of my school children?" "Because, if I was one of them I know I could come to you and you would listen and give me one of those sweet smiles, and comfort me like you do Mountie and Sam Houston." Christy leaned over a little, "Do you need comforting, Neil?" She should wake him further. This was madness. How could she have asked him that? But she waited. She couldn't move. "Yes Teacher", was Neil's reply as he sank back into a deep sleep. Christy just stood and stared. Again. How could this happen to such a good man. She felt such compassion for him, she felt…her heart was racing again. She didn't know what she felt. Then that silly dream came back to her. Her face began to turn a light shade of pink, then absolute crimson. She looked down at his sleeping figure. He wants comforting. Something welled up inside of her. She began to cry softly. She reached over to his face and brushed his hair away from his eyes and stroked his brow, just once. Then, she carefully sat on the edge of the bed. "Neil", she called to him. "Neil", she called again, and then the third time he opened his eyes and looked at her. No, he looked right into her as if seeing her for the very first time. How long had she been there? Neil raised himself up and haltingly spoke, taking in the tears in her eyes, "Christy, lass, as much as it pains me to say it, you've got to leave this room. I can't risk having you found here and compromising your reputation. I'm not sure what you're doing here." He fought the urge to take her in his arms. He'd have to muster every ounce of his willpower. This was certainly not the right moment for an embrace, if the moment would ever come to him. Christy, throwing all caution to the wind threw her arms around him, held him close to her and whispered into his ear that everything was going to be all right. His arms went around her, taking in the wonder of her warmth and the smell of her lavender soap. It was just as she had imagined as she had watched him sitting by the fireplace with Miss Alice only a few hours ago. Only better. Once or twice Christy had let David embrace her, but it didn't leave feelings in her like this. She didn't want to let go. Neil tenderly removed her arms and looked at her with the most surprised look on his face. The event lasted only a few seconds. He thanked her with his eyes. Christy gave him the most serious look and bolted out the room and closed the door. Neil stared at the door. "Where did the dream end and the reality begin?" he thought to himself as he laid back down on the bed, yet another time. "And they say dreams don't come true" he whispered to himself with a satisfied smile on his face ans he fell asleep once more. Chapter Four: Christy quickly made her way back downstairs to the kitchen and contemplated whether or not to start breakfast. "Get busy!" she thought to herself. "He'll be asleep for a while, at least, then I can slip back upstairs when he comes down and I can take a nap". She stepped to the pantry and grabbed a white apron, tied it around her waist and set about a marathon of baking for the next three hours, taking out her frustrations on the bread dough. Three hours later, there was to be found on the kitchen table the most wondrous assortment of goodies at one time such as not seen in the Mission house since Ida Grantland's presence had commanded the kitchen stove. Christy smiled with satisfaction as she looked upon the fruit of her labor. Cinnamon rolls, cornbread, biscuits, pound cake, and two loves of quick-bread completed the ensemble. As well, a simmering pot of chicken vegetable soup added a wondrous aroma to the downstairs. She had been a busy girl, true to her thinking, not allowing herself a moment to analyze, imagine, or dream. She walked over to the sink and piled the dirty pans and dishes inside. Looking over at their water supply she discovered it was low so she'd have to go out to the pump and get enough for the day's work, which would be several trips, not to mention they needed more drinking water. However, there was just enough water left to make a pot of coffee, which she carefully prepared. Miss Alice liked her morning coffee. She got it all ready in the blue enamel pot and placed it on the stove to boil. Gathering two buckets she made her way outside into the sunshine. Meanwhile, Neil had opened his hazel-green eyes and faced the sunshine coming through the window, then blinked. He was confused for just a second regarding his surroundings but it came back to him where he was. Ruby Mae's bedroom. He was warm. Someone had put an extra quilt on top of him. He sat up and swung his long legs over the edge of the bed and stood, then stretched his big frame, hearing his neck "crack". He rubbed it with his left hand and walked over to the window, which faced the southern front of the Mission house. He parted the simple white curtain. "Christy", he said aloud as he watched her make her way to the water pump. "The grace of a woman's walk" he thought to himself. But all that grace was lost when he saw her physically wrestling with the pump, moving the handle up and down madly drowning her buckets. She was talking out loud to herself, though he couldn't hear, shaking her head, looking up, then down again. Then he saw that her eyes narrowed and she stopped pummeling the pump handle long enough to put a smile on her face. Miss Alice walked over to Christy, smiled back, and they began to talk. Neil shrugged. He couldn't hear anything. His eyes looked lost again, like last night, reflecting on when he last saw and spoke with Alice. Was that only a few hours ago? He turned to find the water pitcher and basin and began the task of cleaning up and getting dressed. He stopped to look at himself in the mirror. He needed a shave, but there was no time, yet, for that task. He studied his face again. The sleep did him some good, but he still looked tired, and that dream was sure a puzzle. Here was Christy, in the end, running away from him yet again. Her presence had felt so real. He had even warned her to leave. Neil walked over to the window again and looked at Christy. Her hair was down. He liked it that way. Her hair was down in his dream. The blue dress she was wearing…he had never seen her in it before, but it suited her, and as he recalled her dress was blue in his dream. Neil's heart began to beat rapidly. "Could it be," be said aloud. He closed his eyes and replayed the dream over in his mind. "Yes. Some of it was real. I looked right at her. I had her in my arms and took them away. I remember her warm embrace, her voice a breath on my ear telling me….." It was a healing experience for him but his wound was raw again and wanted for "fixin". "I still remember the fragrance of her." Neil opened his eyes. "What was she doing here?" He was puzzled. As soon as he was done washing up, he'd go down and check on Charlie, then shave, and see if he could get something to eat. "Hello, Miss Alice. Did you have a good sleep? "A much needed one, Miss Huddleston. I feel fine as frog's hair as Little Burl would say. I see the sun is shining in the swamp." "Christy moved her buckets of water, one to each hand and was moving to walk back to the Mission house. She turned to Alice as they walked. "I made some soup and baked a few things, and I didn't forget to make you some coffee, and she emphasized "coffee" knowing Miss Alice would be pleased about that. "Wonderful! Miss Huddleston. Thee hath made my start of the day a good one. But Christy, I need to make an apology to thee." Christy kept walking balancing her buckets of water with Miss Alice beside her. "Whatever for?" "Well", Alice continued, "I did make a considerable error in judgment this morning, early this morning. I just wasn't thinking. Perhaps my thought processes at four a.m. are just plain befuddling to me. Christy continued to respectfully listen. What was Miss Alice getting at? "Dr. MacNeil was here in the early morning hours regarding a matter of serious nature and he and I had talked ourselves to exhaustion. May I say, Christy, that it would please me and the Lord if you could go out of your way to be gentle with him. What I mean is, don't provoke him with discussions that lead to your arguing for a few days. Now, don't look at me like that. Thee knows how you two tangle at times. He's tired all around, Christy. He wanted to sleep in David's bunkhouse but I couldn't offer it with all of that stuff stored in there. It won't be out of there until Tuesday. "I had forgotten about that", Christy remarked absently. "I let him have Ruby Mae's bedroom, so he was in the Mission house last night, with you, while I was in my cabin. What I should have done is given him my cabin and taken Ruby Mae's bedroom. Neither one of us thought anything about it and by the time I took him a quilt and some water, he was soundly asleep. I apologize for putting you both in a compromising position, though I trust you, Christy, and I trust Neil. It's our friends and neighbors who wouldn't understand. Will you forgive me?" As they reached the Mission steps Alice grabbed one of the buckets from Christy's hands and looked at her. "There's nothing to forgive, Miss Alice", Christy replied looking sweetly at her dear friend. "Let's get inside as I'm anxious for you to try some of my baking, and oh, remember, I made a big pot of coffee which I left it boiling on the stove!". And with that remark she dashed into the kitchen with Miss Alice in tow. Entering the Mission house through the back kitchen door, Alice quickly set down the water on the counter and went to rescue the coffee. She quickly took it off the burner and remarked, "It's fine, Christy". Next Miss Alice chose a large cup from the cupboard and poured herself some of the hearty brew. She took a sip. "Ahhh. It's wonderful. No harm done. Now, I shall go and investigate your labor. I am hungry." Miss Alice took a plate from the shelf and went to the table and sat down. "There's some soup, too, if you're interested". Christy poured water into a pot to boil for cleaning dishes. She suddenly yawned and discovered she was feeling kind of tired. Just then the phone rang. "I'll get it", said Miss Alice as she hesitatingly left the table. "Why does the phone always ring when you're eating?" She picked up the receiver. "Hello?" "Yes, this is Alice Henderson". "Yes, I think so". "There is?" "I'm sure it's too early to worry. Yes, I'll be there. I'll leave shortly. Thank you for calling." Alice hung the receiver up and walked over to Christy. "I'm going to need to make a trip into El Pano. There's a special letter there for me from Dr. Ferrand, as well as some supplies we've been waiting for. I guess Mrs. Beal also asked that I check in on her Sadie Rose. She's due with her first in about six weeks. I also could pay a visit to Mr. Pentland, too. His foot has the gout. I may need Dr. MacNeil to take a trip out there and do a thorough exam if he's not improving. But, oh, there's the problem of Neil…" "And how am I a problem this fine day, Alice?" Neil questioned to her as he strolled into the kitchen. Christy turned at the sound of his voice and noisily washed pots and pans. Neil looked over at the ruckus. "She's scrubbing that pot mighty hard", he thought to himself, "with the same vim and vigor she used with the pump. What has gotten into her?" he thought to himself. "Oh, Neil," Alice continued, "I need to ride to El Pano for a number of reasons and I am concerned about thee and Christy". "I think I am capable of taking care of Christy", Neil said, barely above a whisper. Alice went about packing some cinnamon rolls, an apple, and cornbread into her satchel, which had lain over one of the chairs. She reached for a jar of applesauce from the counter, a knife and fork from Christy's pile of clean dishes, and placed them all inside. Neil watched her in silence waiting for her reply and Christy had just about dried the design off on off two plates. "Neil stood there with his hands on back of one of the chairs and looked at Alice for an explanation. At that moment, Christy turned around, wiped her hands on her apron and took a cup, fork, and plate from her drying rack. She poured a generous portion of coffee into the cup and placed it on the table in front of where Neil was standing, along with the plate and fork. She kept her face from finding his, made a small "good morning, Doctor" and went back to the business of drying the dishes. Alice looked at Neil. "Well, David's gone and I'll not be back until nightfall. I don't like leaving Christy alone here at the Mission." Christy turned around before Neil could answer. "I'll be fine". Her voice sounded a little defensive. "You've left me here, alone, with David before and nothing happened." Alice cocked her head. "Go on, Miss Alice. I'll see you later tonight if not in the morning", and Christy turned away, her cheeks feeling hot. "Boy, it sure is warm in here," she thought to herself. "She's right, Alice", Neil said flatly. "Of course", Alice remarked. "I'll be back tonight and Lord willing I'll be able to try some of your hearty soup, Christy. Is there anything you'll be needing while I am in El Pano?" "Not that I can think of,", Christy replied as she dawdled on task. "Alice, if you've a mind", said Neil as he sat down and began reaching for some bread, "could you check at the General Store to see if a small pocket knife came in for me. It's already paid for. I've got an arrowhead-hunting friend of mine who could use it when he's out with me, though I'm not sure how to handle the gift with him yet. It's got an engraving of a buck on it". Neil looked at Alice and smiled. Alice returned his smile. "I'll be sure to stop in and ask Mr. Grayson if it's arrived. Well, I'd best be on my way." Christy turned to Miss Alice. "Be careful. Please call from El Pano when you leave so we know when to expect you", Christy intoned in her most convincing voice. "I'll be fine, too", Alice remarked as she picked up her coat and hat, swung the satchel over her arm and made her way out the kitchen door toward the barn to saddle her horse. "Christy. Would you come join me?" "I don't think so" she replied looking down. "How about trying some of my soup, Neil?" "That sounds good right now. Yes. Please." Neil took a knife and buttered his piece of bread. Christy took a bowl and ladled several spoonfuls inside and placed it in front of him. He looked up at her but she had already turned to put away the dishes. "Christy, can you stop playing house for a few minutes and eat a little something? Come and sit with me. I won't bite you. I promise. I'll be on my best behavior." His eyes pleaded with her but she still wouldn't look over at him. Thoughts were dancing in her head. "I can't look at him. He'll find me out for sure". "Well, just for a few minutes. I have a lot of chores left to do and already I have wasted some time going for an early morning walk." She grabbed a cup and poured a ladle of soup into it, opened the drawer and took out a spoon, and sat down in the chair directly across from him. She could see he was already eating but she bowed her head and silently prayed. "Thank you for this food, Lord, when so many are doing without, and thank you for your goodness to us. Forgive me of my sins and help me not to get into any trouble while Miss Alice is away. In your precious name, Amen." She picked up her spoon and began to eat. Neil watched her at first, then studied her subdued manner. She was usually so expressive. Ready to give her opinion, with fire and conviction. His brow furrowed as he said, "Christy, are you feeling alright? You're so quiet this morning". Christy sighed out loud and spooned some soup into her mouth and swallowed. "I think I'm just over tired. All of a sudden I feel exhausted". "Do you think you need me to check you, I mean, you could be coming down with something", he said with concern in his voice. "Yes, Doctor, I'm coming down with something, all right," Christy thought to herself. She felt kind of flushed again. "I'm just tired, that's all. Really". They sat in silence again, Neil feasting on Christy's cooking, marveling there wasn't a burnt item in the offering. Finally he leaned back a little in his chair and began to expound on her cooking ability. "Christy, that was the best meal I've eaten in ages. You did a really wonderful job. I don't know what prompted your ambition this morning, but my stomach greatly thanks you for it," Neil said with a nice smile on his face. Christy slowly looked up and a smile came creeping out from within her. "You're welcome". She couldn't take her eyes off his face. She knew she shouldn't have looked at him. He was looking more rested, though not entirely so, his whiskers gone, hair combed, as much as Neil's hair would allow itself to be put it place. Those eyes. She looked deeply into his eyes. "Gold", she decided. "That was the color of those flecks in his eyes. Fairlight had been right. The picture was of Neil," she thought and as she looked she felt she was drowning, her eyelids getting heavy. Very heavy. "Christy", you look tired. Your eyes are almost closed." Christy straightened herself up. "You need to march yourself upstairs and get some rest. I'll stay here if you want me to. But tell me something before you go to sleep," Neil enquired. Christy turned her face away. Neil reached across the table and gently took the right side of her face in his left hand. "No, now look at me. I want to ask you a question." She turned her face back to him as he had bidden and looked into his eyes once more. Neil calmly asked, "Were you walking in your sleep last night?" Chapter Five "What was that, Doctor?" Christy asked as she pretended not to hear his pointed question. Neil kept his curious eyes focused on her guarded face and took his hand away gently. The action had achieved its purpose. She was looking at him as well and as usual her clear blue eyes told him he might have hit his mark. Christy smiled cautiously and rested her chin on her hand trying to vocalize a strong retort to ward off further questions from him. "I don't walk in my sleep, Neil." She had told him the truth. She didn't. *I just barge in bedrooms and wake up sleepy doctors*. She did not realize she was still staring at him, her eyes on him, but no longer focused. Neil continued to look thoughtfully at her. She acted like she was studying a peculiar knot hole in the wood clear through his head and on the wall behind him. Just then the rustic front door of the Mission House creaked noisily open and the voice of a certain young redhead could be heard firing question after question off to David Grantland's dismay. "Oh my stars, Preacher, an did ah tell ya Mason said that his pa once sparked ma Aunt Anna B. Mattingly who lived down tha road a piece or so from where the Teague's was. Said he brung her flowers an now," she said dramatically, "It's like time repeatin' itself." "What about Rob Allen and Will Beck?" "Wall, ya shoulda seen ma face when I saw Mason Teague. We was expectin' a little feller and he's pert near 17! He has the finest face ya ever did see. Miss Vina Belle told me tha' he's the spittin' image of his Daddy. Did ya know his Daddy's name was Mason, too?" "No, I did not," David remarked absently. By this time he just wanted to get away. Ruby Mae was like his pocket watch when it had been over wound and only time could ease the tension and bring it to rights. She was certainly the queen of loquacity. "Wait till ya sees him. Kin he holp with tha' road? I told him we was building a road in Cutter Gap. Well, you was and Mr. Spencer and enyone ya could find ta holp. Can he come fer supper one night? I promise I'll cook us a right fine supper up and ta please ya, Preacher, thar won't be no possum in sight for nary a mile! Ya suppose that'll be alright? I need ta know soon so's I can git a note to 'im." All the while David and Ruby Mae were conversing they were bringing in supplies from Knoxville which David had purchased at Bingham and Beales. Someone had donated a credit for the Mission schools and David had volunteered to pick up the supplies thanks to the use of Jeb and Fairlight's wagon. It had been agreed they would load up the wagon with the goods stored in the bunkhouse when he returned and David arrived a day earlier than he had expected due to good weather and the motivation to keep going after Ruby Mae entered into the journey. If Ruby Mae had been on the ark with Noah he was sure the possibility may have existed to throw her overboard, however; wasn't Noah the most patient man trusting God to keep his promise and Noah was faithfully building that ark for many a year. David chuckled to himself. He recalled only last Sunday when asking his Sunday School class who the wife of Noah was, Burl Allen gleefully answered, "Joan of Ark". "What's so funny, Preacher?" "Oh, nothing Ruby Mae. Come outside and let's get the last of those bundles, shall we?" Both Neil and Christy's eyes had turned to the other room. Neil spoke quickly. "Christy. I believe the person who is sleep-walking doesn't know they are doing it. They move about in the shadows of the night idly entering bed chambers doing great kindnesses. Would you care for me to elaborate?" *Oh, he knows. He knows*. She looked at Dr. MacNeill and her face softened and deep inside she felt her heart react with a restless flutter. As Ruby Mae and David's footsteps could be heard approaching the kitchen Neil stood, walked to the counter and promptly grabbed his leather gloves. "I think I'll go check on Charlie in the barn. A pity our quiet time together has passed unless", he paused, "you'll be needing some repose. If so, you'll know where to find me for the next few minutes." He stayed where he was standing, waiting for the possibility of a quick confession of sorts. Christy turned back to look at Neil actually grateful for the noisy interruption from David and Ruby Mae. She had missed them. Rising from her chair she began to clear the table of their dirty dishes and move them to the dry sink. *Why doesn't he leave? He said he was leaving. He's just standing there staring at me. I'm sure his eyes can see what I'm thinking*! As Christy poured some water into a basin to wash the dishes she finally looked up at Neil. He looked in low spirits. Sweetly, as Miss Alice had requested of her earlier, she asked, "Are you sure you got enough to eat"? He paused and then an ever-so-slight smile formed on his face. Perhaps she did care. He emphasized his answer. "Yes, Teacher." With that said he walked out the back door as David and Ruby Mae entered the kitchen. "Welcome home, Ruby Mae." "Did ya miss me Teacher"? "Yes I did", she smiled. "I even checked your bedroom this morning looking for you." "I missed ya, too. Did ya miss ma cookin'? Miss Vina Belle showed me how ta make ma biskits be a might higher. Mason said they was the best he had ever 'et." Ruby Mae spied all the food on the table. "Lordy Miz Christy... "I mean, my stars Miz Christy, ya probly done worn yerself to a frazzle with all this here cookin'. I kin take over from here now that I gots all tha' cookin' learnin' tha' last few days." "Are you hungry, David"? He smiled at Christy. She sure was a sight for his sore ears and eyes. How he had missed her sweet smile and companionable ways. "Let's just say, Miss Huddleston, if you set a plate in front of me, I could be tempted." "Temptation is a sin, Preacher," piped in Ruby Mae. Nothing got past her. "It's just a figure of speech". David looked at Christy to rescue him. "It means I would enjoy having some of this fine cooking to eat right now if it wouldn't be too much trouble. In fact, I can help myself." He started to get a plate. "You just sit down, David. I don't mind getting you a plate and some dinnerware. Christy walked over to the cupboard, and as before with Dr. MacNeill, returned with a plate, knife, fork, and spoon for David. "Thank you." "You're welcome." Hesitatingly she continued. "I'd really like to get caught up on all the interesting things you must have to share about your trip but to tell you the truth, I didn't get much sleep last night. I'm feeling a little poorly, but nothing serious. I wonder if you wouldn't mind my going upstairs and taking a nap. I know that would help me to feel better. Ruby Mae, would you be so kind as to clean up after Reverend Grantland has his meal? "Yessum." Christy took off her ric-racked red and white apron and handed it to Ruby Mae. As she passed David on her way upstairs he lightly grabbed her arm. "You sure you're just tired"? "Absolutely. I'll be fine." "I promise no one will interrupt your sleep if I can help it." Christy walked through the kitchen entrance gratefully on her way up the stairs. She was feeling so weary, as Neil had correctly diagnosed. As each foot raised to a stair step she felt like she was climbing the highest point of the Smokies. She was sure her feet had turned into small mill stones. *I just need some sleep. In a few minutes I will be able to just let my eyelids fall and dream. This time I know exactly where Neil and Ruby Mae are, so no surprises*. She forgot she didn't have any control over her dreams. Dr. MacNeill opened the back door to greet Ruby Mae. "Howdy, Doc," she warmly addressed him as she started tidying the kitchen. "Hello Ruby Mae. Grantland. Since you two have arrived early I'll be heading back to my cabin. Alice and I didn't think it was a good idea leaving Christy here alone. Did you hear anything on your way about a band of men moving through the cove? Was there any talk of them towards Cosby?" David looked up at Neil. He wasn't too happy that Christy had been alone with the doctor. He and Neil had already had a terse discussion about who was right for Christy, and David knew it was him. They had the most in common, and she loved him while she felt sorry for the Doctor. Feeling sorry for someone isn't love. Besides that, Neil already had a wife which made David the right and only choice. He had her best interests in mind but deep down inside he knew that Neil MacNeill did as well, but in his situation, he could really have nothing to offer her except friendship. Christy and the Doctor had an unusual friendship. They had become close. He wished he could see them continue to spar, and he hated himself for it, but that was when Christy would turn to him, and not the doctor, for advice and companionship. Seeing Dr. MacNeill for any other reason wasn't proper and Christy was a good, sweet girl. "We saw Uncle Bogg a few miles from here. He mentioned it to me. Said they caused a few problems in Low Gap, just mild stuff." "I see. Where's Christy?" Ruby Mae was ready to report. "She went upstairs ta her bedroom ta take a nap. She said she was feelin' poorly." "Maybe I should return later to check on her?" "No need, Doctor. I can take care of Christy. She's just tired and needs some sleep, nothing more." David looked up from his plate long enough to emphasize those last few words. For a moment he thought he saw something in Neil's eyes. The lines around them appeared deeper than normal. He sensed a sadness there, too. He suddenly felt ashamed because here was a man who's soul needed saving and all he could think of was getting him as far away from Christy as possible. He didn't like that feeling and immediately asked God to help him with it. *Lord, Christy will never be able to see a clear path to our relationship with the Doctor continually distracting her. If it were not for my feelings for Christy, I think I would really like the man*. Neil turned to the door and began to exit the kitchen, then turned again and spoke. "I think I'll prescribe something for all of us - a little peace and quiet, especially for Christy, though I'm sure, Grantland, you could use some after your trip. And, I know you can take care of Christy. Thank you," and with that he made his departure. Ruby Mae looked at David. "I sure am glad ta be back home agin. What did the Doc mean by 'Night Riders'"? David's demeanor softened. "I don't expect they'd be stopping here at the Mission. We must be cautios just the same. Anytime people are riding out in the night they're usually up to no good." "Tha' Doc..." "Except for Dr. MacNeill, of course. They were spotted a long way from our roughed out road. With it uncompleted it's my guess they wouldn't try it. It's not easy to get through the woods right now; too much over-growth. "Well, tha's jest fine with me." "Did you want to join me in something to eat, Ruby Mae?" "I'm too excited ta' eat, but I'll pour me a nice glass of tha' swayt tay." She walked over to get a glass off the counter and poured it to the full. "I thought I'd put tha' dishes on in a litty bit. I'd like ta set on the porch a might and do some resting and dreaming if'n tha's alright with you, Preacher." That's fine. I'll finish up eating and start to unpack the rest of the supplies. Will you come find me when Miss Christy awakens, please." "Awl-righty, Preacher. Did I ever tell ya bout tha' time...." "Not now. Please." Ruby Mae turned back the way they had entered and happily skipped out the front door of the Mission House letting the door slam behind her. "Oops, I done did it agin. Sorry," she yelled loudly. "Oops, I has ta be quiet. Lord, put one hand around my shoulders and one over ma mouth, please." A group of men were moving ever so slowly through the brush of the dense woods. Trees were shooting upwards, and rightly so but their tangled trunks were a mystery of half-done sailor's knots. Trails had become narrower as they invaded the landscape of the hollow. Passing a few gravestones to their left, one of the men craned his elongated neck to peek at a name. Time and the elements had worn the letters off making each an unknown soldier, their ultimate home only the good Lord knew. The wind sang a minor chord across his ear and the hairs on his arm stood up. He was a restless sort by nature but graveyards filled him with a mixture of curiosity and fear. His three companions, now several feet ahead were almost lost to him as they had gone from ridge to ravine and back to ridge again. Normally shaped pines stared back at him contorted into odd shapes, some from run-ins with a thunderbolt. As the four men continued down into the ravine, a rather steep meeting place of gray-brown rocks and fallen oak branches lay before them. The men stopped as the first put up a hand signal. The figure of a mountain man with a rifle, held like it was a third arm, stepped cautiously yet aggressively from behind a tree and faced the assemblage. "Howdy Birds-Eye." Chapter 6 to Follow