Friday, October 21, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 19:

It seemed that all the wonderfully laid plans had worked their magic.  Carly was so amazed at the immediate transformation in Jonathon.  Even Elspeth noticed the difference and praised him for it. 

He simply beamed. 

Carly knew that he had received much needed reassurance from the one he needed it most; and that he was, indeed, loved.  Carly thrilled at the success and the change in him. 

At every turn, she encouraged the children, praised them, and loved them.  Often, she made sure there was well-earned playtime upon the pirate ship.  Carly exacted from the children the best of manners and the following of rules and lessons completed, but she thoroughly enjoyed showering her affections upon these two delightful children. 

            Several times already, they had included the ship into their lessons by confiscating the globe from the study for their own purposes upon the ship and plotted their own course on trade routes around the world.  They explored, through their studies, the different textiles and spices, etc., that were traded upon these routes and studied further what would have been exchanged at these ports as well. 

Carly found that the children were avid learners, devouring the fun way in which they were learning their lessons on these excursions.  They would picnic upon the ship, pretending that they were eating the foreign foods from the various lands they visited.  In fact, May had gone as far as to plan around these expeditions, planning meals from her vast knowledge of cuisine from foreign lands.  Of course, there were the favorites…and the not so favorites. 

Life was good at Huntington Manor. 

*******

Many ladies and gentlemen of rank and position had called at Huntington Manor since the master’s return from London.  Carly was curious about these people.  The ladies seemed most desperate for Lord Huntington’s presence, his attentions.  One in particular. 

He, however, seemed bored by the whole affair. 

Why? 

Would the master not remarry and give these sweet children a mother?  He should, Carly thought. 

How judgmental I am?

Some of the ladies seemed quite upset at Carly’s presence when accidentally come upon in a secret garden or room. 

Disdain was something Carly was getting used to in this house of important people.  But she did not care.  She had her charges and her growing friends amongst the servants.  She was content. 

Or so she told herself…                              

It's always satisfying when our plans work out, especially when it involves the happiness of other people.  And what of satisfying curiosity?  I don't think Carly has had hers satisfied yet. 
Ellise

Monday, August 22, 2011 -- The Governess -- Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 13 continued:

At that moment, Heather, the shy parlourmaid, entered the salon and curtsied to her bringing forward a silver tray with a letter placed upon it.  Smiling kindly, she said, “A letter ‘as arrived for you, milady.” 

            Carly smiled happily, and thanked Heather again and again for bringing her this welcomed diversion.  Placing the book of poetry down, she thought to herself that she would read no more of this gloom.  She was, in her mind’s eye, already returning it to the library shelf. 

As Heather quietly exited the room, Carly welcomed the reading of her sister’s response, enjoying the constant rhythm of the rain. 

Dear Carly,

            I was so happy to receive your letter today!  I have been so lonely for you, my sweet Carly.  I wholly regret our separation, but know that it must be.  Put your mind at ease, though, dear sister, for I too have a loving family and children to be with.  The Radford’s are kind and their staff as well.  The children are Mary, 8, Thomas, 10, and George, 12.  It seems so very odd teaching children that are almost as old as I am.  After all, eighteen is not that far removed, is it? 

            You do make me worry about your master, Carly.  Is he good to you?  You must watch your tongue.  You have a way of getting yourself into trouble.  I am afraid I always let you do the talking and so I am not good at negotiations. 

            Now this situation with the little boy, Jonathon.  How sad that he is troubled.  But if anyone can pull his heart strings, it will be you, my dear Carly.  I am so happy to know he has you to rely upon.  When reading your letter, the most wonderful idea occurred to me.  What do you think of a treasure hunt, just for him, your little pirate?  I thought it intriguing and wondered if you thought it a fun plan to put into action?  Let me know how things go between the two of you.  I find it difficult to believe that his heart could remain unattached from yours for long. 

My mistress has told me that I may visit you anytime that it is convenient, except when we are on holiday, so please let me know if I may.  The weather is awful here, so, I too, think of our walks in the gardens.  How I do miss home and mother and father, and you.  I am so lucky to have you.  I always count my blessings, and give thanks in prayer.  I pray for you daily, as well, knowing that the good Lord will watch over you better than I. 

            I will write again soon, for I know how much I will treasure each of your letters. 

                                                With all my love,

                                                Susannah

What will become of these sisters?  Thanks for joining me today!  Join me Friday for more.

Ellise ;)

Friday, August 12, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 12 continued:

The new gown Carly was stitching was coming along splendidly.  It would be simple, but it would fit her much better than any other she owned.  “I think it quite lovely,” she said to herself.  The green fabric would complement her eye color, a comment that would have been made by her mother, if she were here.  Deftly, her fingers sewed the tiny stitches so that they were hardly noticeable.  Within the week, she was sure to be finished. 

Carly had felt numerous occasions to pray in gratitude for the plentiful blessings she was receiving.  So long had she and her sister been scraping a living, she had almost forgotten what gift bounty was? 

            Elspeth would often join her in her off time, asking questions of her project.  Carly was determined that she must make the most of this little girl’s interest in sewing and start her upon it very soon.  She must ask permission to take the children to town on an outing to procure a sampler for Elspeth and maybe something for Jonathon that would ignite his interests. 

            Smiling to herself, she enjoyed her quiet solitude, humming softly.             

*******

Tittering laughter sounded down the hallway as Carly walked towards the salon.  Only realizing then that the room must be occupied, she halted.   Another assortment of giggles assailed her ears as she wondered who was here.  And then she heard a sound she had never before heard. 

Could it be? 

Was it even possible? 

She doubted it!  Highly! 

But she could not help herself as she secreted a peek into the room to see for herself. 

            There he was, in all his greatness.  Laughing with the most delightful young lady.  Of all things!  A real, true-to-it’s-name, belly laugh! 

            Who was she?  She seemed to have Lord Huntington’s undivided attention.  Exclusivity without the yelling?  Was it possible? 

            She was harsh, was she not?  She must strive to be more kind. 

Judging others is hard not to do sometimes.  However, it is best to see the good in people.  Carly will attempt to be less judgmental of her harsh master, but Lord Huntington will try her patience.  Thanks for reading with me today.  :)  Join me on Monday for more!

Ellise ;)

Monday, August 1, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 cont'd:

Quickly, they ran back to the picnic blanket, frightened looks upon their young faces.  Carly sat up in time to see him jumping off his horse, quickly running toward them.  Seeing that he was furious, she had difficulty standing hastily in her gown, but soon stood before him. 

Grabbing her by the arms, he yelled, “Do you not know the dangers of children around water?”  Madly gripping her, he again yelled, “I thought I had left my children in safe hands, and now I am disappointed to find that I have not!”  After bellowing at her, leaving her confusion growing by leaps and bounds, he let go of her abruptly and bent down on his knees as he hugged both children to him at once.  They hugged him back, but Elspeth was now in tears.  Carly looked at the shallow waters at the shoreline perplexed by the perceived danger. 

“Jonathon, Elspeth, please…please walk back to the house at once.  I know it is a long walk, but I shall join you shortly.”  Watching them as they started quickly back to the house, they both saw Jonathon take Elspeth’s little hand to bring her comfort.  Lord Huntington stood, waiting until they were out of hearing range. 

He turned on her, fury boiling over. 

Carly’s hand was already at her throat. 

Standing inches from her, he spoke in a harsh voice, saying, “I have trusted the safety of my children to you, Miss Blakemore!”  The fear in his eyes made her step backwards, but he moved forward, capturing her arms not intending for her to escape his wrath.  “How could you be so careless?  I thought you were more vigilant than this,” he said more to himself than to her.  Dropping her arms, his hands raked through his dark hair back and forth with worry written over his face. 

Distraught over his behavior, she tried to be sensitive to his chaotic emotions, but could only reply, “Your children were safe, Lord Huntington.  I…I would never do anything to harm them.”  

“The lake,” he shouted, pointing at the water.  “You brought them to the lake!  You were not watching them just now, for I was watching you.”  Pacing back and forth, he asked with disbelief evident in his voice, “Did you not know that this is where their mother died?  Here, in these very waters?”  Grasping her arms again, he continued frantically, “They could have drowned, and you were not even watching.” 

With great shock, Carly trembled at this new information. 

Looking down upon her, truly seeing the woman standing here for the first time since coming upon their picnic, Lord Huntington saw her emotion growing, saw that she was violently trembling. 

Then, she burst into tears.   

Growling at himself remorsefully, he began to say to her, “For heaven’s sake…” 

Pulling her into his arms, he held her, resting his chin upon her head.  Noticing her hair was loose and hanging around her shoulders, his hands could not resist touching the sunlit tresses, trying to bring comfort to her.  “I have made you cry.” 

Instead of receiving comfort, the obviousness of his comment made her cry even harder. 

Stroking her long, beautiful hair, he felt repentant as she sobbed against his chest, her hands covering her face as if in shame.  He tried to give her his handkerchief, but she was too busy sobbing.  He wasn’t sure what to do with himself now. 

His outburst, his disclosure had upset her terribly, not having known previously how his wife had died.  How could I have been so careless, she thought?  Why has anyone not told me?  Will no one tell me the secrets of this house? 

How will this end?  Why such anger from Lord Huntington?  And how is it possible for Carly to stand up to him as she does?

Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Friday for more...

Ellise ;)

Friday, July 29, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 continued:

Carly was busy spreading the old patchwork quilt for the fifth time in one week, while Jonathon helped Elspeth carry the picnic basket over to her.  She had been excited to find out that Jonathon loved the outdoors, so made their picnics work to her advantage. 

“Shall we put this here, Miss Blakemore?”  These were the first voluntary words that Jonathon had spoken to her since the day of their introduction.  Smiling an encouraging smile at him, she said, “That would be fine, dear.”     

            Taking in a deep breath of fresh country air, she exclaimed, “What fresh air!  Mmmm!  I think the lake was a fine choice for our picnic today, do you not think so children?”  Only Elspeth agreed. 

            Jonathon hesitantly volunteered, “It has been a long time since we have come here.” 

            “Well, I think it is absolutely gorgeous!  We shall come here often, I think,” Carly exclaimed, laughing as she spoke.  As they sat down upon the quilt and started to unpack the delicious-looking food, Carly said, “Mrs. Cooper has spoiled us again today!  Look at all this food!  We could feed an army!”  Apparently Elspeth thought this was funny, that they could feed a whole army, and she giggled about it while they passed out freshly-made sandwiches.  “Look here, she has packed some early berries, lemonade, and even chocolate cake!”  The children gasped excitedly, and they looked at each other in surprise. 

            “Chocolate cake,” Elspeth sighed. 

            “That is the second time in one week,” Jonathon said.  Carly was glad to see that he was excited too. 

            “Yes!”  Elspeth agreed in amazement. 

            Jonathon was showing remarkable improvement today by contributing so much to their conversation.  “I believe we have had more desserts than normal since you have arrived, Miss Blakemore.”  Jonathon looked at Miss Blakemore as if she were some magical genie with powers to snap her fingers together and produce sumptuous chocolate cake! 

Smiling at his excitement, she laughed as she said, “Well, let us hope we do not get fat!”  As Carly and Elspeth laughed, Jonathon smiled. 

Having been here for nearly two weeks, Carly was hopeful that things were beginning to improve as she watched both children enjoy their lovely outing.  She had not had any more trouble from their father, and Jonathon had been fresh out of tricks for three days.  Both children were exuberant, but Carly’s youthful energy and excitement could match their own.  Jonathon had been a difficult child, but she would catch him smiling and laughing from time to time; and now, during their picnic today, seemed to have made a decision that it was not so unpleasant for him to talk.  Carly would find him watching her frequently, as if he was trying to figure out her secrets. 

Elspeth, on the other hand, had completely accepted Carly.  Finding that she loved sitting in the governess’s lap, hugging and spreading sweet kisses on her cheeks, Elspeth reminded Carly again of what this dear child’s father had told her of their mother’s unkind ways.  Elspeth was very affectionate and ate up any loving tenderness that was shown her.  She loved Carly’s hair and would, most often as not, undo the pins and run her fingers through it like a comb.  By the end of their picnics her hair would be cascading down her shoulders and back.  Elspeth loved this and would then insist upon Carly doing the same to her hair so they would be twins. 

“I will grow my hair to be as long as yours!” Elspeth told Carly.  “In fact, I am determined to grow it to be even longer!”

“Well, then.  Let us see how far you shall have to grow it!”  Carly placed her finger between Elspeth’s shoulder blades showing the little girl how long her hair was and how far she had yet to go. 

Carly had tried each day to make sure there were plenty of hugs to go around for both children, drawing understanding from the words Lord Huntington had shared with her about their mother’s cruel heart.  Jonathon never welcomed these hugs, unlike Elspeth, but Carly always pretended not to notice.  She felt that if she altered this new routine, having been established, he would feel selectively different, immediately noticing her change towards him.  This would not do.  Eventually, she was sure he would give in to this much needed affection. 

Each day, Nanny, as she became even to Carly, took charge by bathing the children, feeding them dinner, and getting them to bed after stories each night.  “You shall be the death ‘o me yet!” she always mocked. 

Following dinner with Lord Huntington, Carly would sneak into their bedroom kneeling with them for prayers.  She made sure she always snuggled and tucked them back into bed, as though they were her own precious treasures.  Once in a while, Carly would slip in a bedtime story, making up a funny one, or telling them of her youth.  The children were growing to love this special story time with her, especially the stories about her and Susannah and always begged for more.  This affection from Carly, she could already see, was working on Jonathon’s tender heart.  She only wished his father was here to shower affection upon him too. 

After they had finished their cake, Elspeth skipped over to the water and Jonathon excitedly followed.  They began throwing rocks into the lake listening to the splashes, laughing as they watched the ripples getting bigger, enjoying the tiny minnows as they darted here and there.  Looking back at her, they would laugh, even Jonathon, and she would laugh with them and wave.  As they excitedly pointed at the minnows, she thought to herself that she must remember to bring a jar next time to show the children how to catch them.  The children would enjoy that, she was sure.  It had been a favorite pastime of hers and Susannah’s.  She found herself relaxing on the blanket gazing up at the cornflower blue sky, her favorite happy color.  Hardly even a cloud on this pleasant day, they had enjoyed exceptional weather this spring, and she was determined to enjoy every minute of it, especially with the children. 

Suddenly, she heard Lord Huntington yelling at the children as he rode up on his steed.  “Jonathon!  Elspeth!  Get away from that water!” 

So what's next?  Why would Lord Huntington be upset about the children being next to the lake?

Thanks for reading today!

Ellise ;)

Monday, July 25, 2011 -- Twice Weekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 cont'd:

Dear Susannah,

            How I miss you, dear sister!  I think of you daily and miss our walks and talks about anything and everything.  I hope this letter finds you well and happy.  Tell me how you are doing and be completely honest.  I must know if you are healing from our loss of mother, and also what is actually taking place in your life so that I will not worry.  At least if I cannot do anything about it I can always pray for you, which, of course, I do anyway.  But help me be specific in my prayers, dear sister.  How are the children?  The staff?  Your master and mistress? 

            Huntington Manor is a very grand house with a large support staff that has been kind to me.  I even have my own personal maid, Millesant.  She is a dear girl and loves doing my hair even more than you do, if that is possible.  My rooms are lovely and adjoin to the children’s.  I say rooms, for I have a dressing and bathing room in my chambers!  Quite spoiled!

 I do love the children, Elspeth, 7, and Jonathon, 8.  They are good and rather brilliant, which, of course, makes my occupation much easier.  However, I need your help, please.  I must find some creative ways to bring Jonathon out more.  He has been deserted over and over again for two years by previous governesses and is distrustful.  I believe he thinks I will desert him also.  He finds satisfaction in playing tricks on me.  Any suggestions?  At least Elspeth loves me. 

            Lord Huntington, on the other hand, is quite troublesome.  Do not worry, sister.  I only tell you this because we are still working at establishing a relationship that we both can tolerate and live with, I suppose.  You know me and my opinions.  Have you had any trouble in this respect?  I suppose not since your temperament is quite perfect. 

He is an extremely generous master though as he has seen fit to have a new wardrobe made for me.  I must look frumpy?  This prospect is exciting, but I worry about you, so I will be sending you my frumpy old gowns just as soon as I can.  Even though you are taller than I am, you work miracles with needle and thread.

            Well, I must retire and will write again soon.  Please write back.  I know you will, silly me. 

                                                Your loving sister,

                                                Carly

Communication in any age has been important.  We love those whom we love, and love to hear from them, even in this instant digital age. 

Thanks for reading with me today!  Join me on Friday for more!
Ellise ;)

Friday, July 8, 2011 -- BiWeekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 10 concluded:

            Lord Huntington nodded his head to his private secretary, Mr. Baldwin, unnoticed by Carly until now.  As he opened the door, Nanny shuffled the children in, scooting them forward, curtseying and turning, and quietly leaving.  Silently, they came in seemingly especially well behaved.  They both acted timid around their father, let alone Lady Blakemore.  Lord Huntington came around his desk and sat on the sofa patting it for them to come to him.  “Come children.”  They gathered on either side of him.  Smiling at them, he said, “Jonathon, Elspeth, I would like to present you both to your new governess, Lady Carly Blakemore, but you may call her Miss Blakemore like most governesses like to be called.” 

            Elspeth smiled a cute knowing smile and curtsied as she said, “How do you do Miss Blakemore?” 

            Jonathon said, more stiffly, as he made a slight bow, “How do you do, Miss Blakemore?” 

            Carly nodded to them both, saying, “I am well, thank you—and you?” 

            “Very well and thank you,” they said simultaneously. 

            Carly saw the pride in Lord Huntington’s face, even reaching his eyes.  She was pleased. 

Lord Huntington continued, “Jonathon is eight years old and Elspeth is seven.”  Touching little Elspeth’s nose when he said this, Carly was glad to see him show some affection.  Then Lord Huntington became serious.  “Jonathon, Elspeth.  I would like you to take exceedingly good care of Miss Blakemore, is that understood?” 

They both nodded, saying, “Yes, sir.” 

“You will do as she asks please, and you will work hard at your lessons.  No tricks.”  He particularly eyed Jonathon.  Even Elspeth peeked at Jonathon for a quick second. 

Again, they nodded, saying, “Yes, sir.” 

“She in return will treat you very well, I am sure.  I have every confidence in her.”  These last words were said while looking directly at Carly, his feelings being that he, indeed, was turning over his children into good hands. 

Carly was hopeful for his confidence. 

            “Now, I wish for you to get to know each other today.  No lessons.”  The children’s eyes brightened with excitement.  “Be extra good and there will be a special dessert for you tonight.”  This brought a smile even to Jonathon’s face, since Mrs. Wilder, their nanny, did not spoil them with many desserts.  “Lady Blakemore, you may choose how you wish to spend your day with the children, getting to know each other.”  Lady Blakemore was in agreement with a smile upon her face. 

He could tell she was excited to get on with their day, as she nodded her head, so he said, “You may be excused, and…have a wonderful day.”  Smiling at each of his children, and also at Lady Blakemore, he felt satisfaction that she was as excited as she seemed to be with his children, and they, also, seemed excited to be with her.  This was a first and very rewarding to behold. 

                                                                                                    

            As Carly left the study with her new pupils in tow, she said with a smile.  “What shall we do today, any ideas?”  Stopping in the middle of the hallway, she turned to them, waiting for an answer. 

Both Jonathon and Elspeth just looked at her, but Elspeth had an extra little wiggle about her person.  Carly could tell she was excited.  Jonathon was quiet. 

“How about if you show me the rest of your rooms, the schoolroom and any rooms I have not seen that you would like me to see?”  Elspeth quickly nodded in agreement.  Jonathon just stared.  Carly must break through his reserve, she thought. 

“But first, let us stop by the kitchen and ask Mrs. Cooper, if she would mind terribly, packing us a picnic lunch.” 

This got a reaction from both children.  Elspeth clapped her hands as she squealed, and Jonathon timidly smiled as he rejoiced by watching Elspeth celebrate for both of them.    

         

            Lord Huntington was watching all of this from the door to the study, feeling emotions that he was not quite sure how to express:  happiness for his children; satisfaction with Lady Blakemore; and, was it peace that he, himself was feeling? 

I hope you've enjoyed this chapter.  Getting to know Elspeth and Jonathon is an adventure as is getting to know 'the formidable master.'  Join me on Monday for the beginning of a new adventure that will eventually lead to another encounter with Lord Huntington...of course! 

Thanks!
Ellise ;)

Monday, June 13, 2011 - BiWeekly Blog - Chapter 9 continued --

Excerpt from The Governess, Chapter 9 cont'd.:

As soon as she got to the privacy of her room, Carly threw herself on her bed, sobbing until she had no emotions left to spill. 

Since the closely-timed deaths of her parents, and now the separation from her dearest sister, Susannah, Carly found that she had been on the extreme side of all emotions.  Never in her life had she been so prone to tears!  But it seemed she could easily cry at the drop of a hat nowadays!  This eruption from Lord Huntington took away all her reserves of strength.  Trying to calm herself, she lay numb for awhile as doubts began assailing her ability—or desire—to help this family. 

Were these outbursts a regular habit of Lord Huntington’s?  If so, she was sure she could not endure.  But what of the children?  After getting to know them well, it would certainly become harder for her to leave them.  In this instance, her deep feelings of loyalty would be a detriment to her. 

Desperately thinking of what she should do, she contemplated leaving now before attachments had grown.  Immediately, she went into the dressing room and flung the doors wide open on the wardrobe.  Gathering her clothing and flinging all onto the bed, she went to see if at least one of the trunks was still in her room.  Walking hurriedly about the room, she was unexpectedly halted…

“Are…are you leaving?”  A tiny voice squeaked, stopping her dead in her tracks.  Looking over towards the nursery door, Carly spotted Elspeth in a pretty pink nightgown and nightcap, peeking through from her room. 

Again, Elspeth asked, “Are you leaving us?” 

            Carly stood quietly for a moment, awkwardly looking at the little girl, not knowing what to say.  Wishing Elspeth had not heard her preparations to depart, she thought to herself, who will be here to set things right for this little one?  Sitting down with a plop onto the bed, suddenly depressed and fatigued, she wiped at her dry, tear-stained face. 

Patting the bed beside herself, she kindly insisted, “Come here, darling.” 

            The little girl ran to her and climbed right into her lap.  Carly was stunned at Elspeth’s reaction.  As the darling girl looked up into Carly’s eyes, she timidly begged, “Please do not leave us.  I already like you.  You are not like the others.  Jonathon says to not get my hopes up, but I keep telling him I cannot help it.  You are different, I just know you are!”  Throwing her arms around Carly’s neck, she gave her the biggest hug. 

Carly began crying all over again, touched by the little girl’s honest, heartrending words spoken with the sweetest little voice. 

            “There, there.  You must not cry.  Nanny says that it makes one all red and puffy.  You are much too lovely to be red and puffy, I think.”  Elspeth smiled up at her shyly, tenderly wiping a tear from Carly’s cheek. 

“Oh, I cannot help crying because you are such a little dear, are you not?”  Trying a smile upon her face, she calmly said, “Come then.  Help me splash some cold water on my face so I do not get red and puffy, shall we?” 

They went over to the wash basin, and little Elspeth gently tried to splash cold water on Carly’s face.  They laughed a little, and then Elspeth quickly grabbed the linen so she could dry Carly’s face all by herself.  Little droplets of water splashed onto the turquoise fabric of her gown, and Elspeth gently pressed the towel to dry them as well. 

Squatting down eye level to this little angel, Carly gently said, “Thank you, Elspeth.  You have made all the difference showing me you care.  What a kind little girl you are.”  Holding out her arms to the little girl, she was nearly knocked backward when she jumped into her outstretched arms.  “We should get you back to bed.” 

Both stood and tip-toed over to the door.  Jonathon was in his bed pretending to sleep.  Aware of his disapproval of her, she did her best to ignore it knowing that he was curious as well. 

Carly pointed to the empty bed, and the little girl quickly obeyed climbing up into it.  Pulling the crisp, clean covers up snuggly tight, she tucked Elspeth into her bed.  A knot formed in her throat as she breathed in the mild fragrance that accompanies freshly-washed children.  Gently kissing the little girl’s head, she inhaled her clean, golden tresses, stealing the scent away into a secret pocket of her heart that would have been saved for her own child. 

Elspeth interrupted her thoughts by whispering, “My mother never tucked me in at night.” 

Carly stared at her, openly gaping, astonished that a mother could not tuck in her own sweet child.  She stood frozen with the shocked look on her face not knowing what to say.  “Father always did though, that is…until he became unhappy.”  So matter-of-factly spoken, Carly trembled with emotion at what she knew so far of this child’s life story.  “You will not leave, will you?” 

So, it was back to this unpleasant topic? 

            Carly shook herself out of her dazed stupor and put on a smile for this little girl who had already woven a spell around her heart.  Quietly, she said, “Not unless your father wishes me to, Elspeth.  Then, I could not do anything about it, I’m afraid.  Now, do not you worry your pretty little head about things we cannot control.  It makes terrible wrinkles between our brows.  And we must not have that!” 

A quick thought occurred to Carly, and she voiced it without thoroughly thinking it through, “However, you could say a prayer for me, if you wish to.  I would very much like to stay, especially after all you have done for me tonight.”  Softly touching the little girl’s cheek, the cutest dimple appeared as she smiled.  Not having noticed her dimple before, her heart skipped a beat at the beauty of her smile.  Strangely, it seemed almost familiar. 

            “Was my father angry with you tonight?” 

Color immediately crept up Carly’s face.  Sighing a little embarrassedly, she said, “Yes, he was.  Very!” 

“And you were going to leave because…because he frightened you?” 

Amazed at this young child’s wisdom, she responded, a bit shocked, “Yes, Elspeth, I was.” 

“All the other governesses left too, but you are the first to make him angry so quickly.” 

There was a slight giggle from the next bed. 

For the first time, Jonathon joined the conversation, forgetting that he was pretending to sleep.  To Elspeth, he said, “That was not kind, Elspeth.  You must apologize.”  As much as he tried to show his censure, he couldn’t help a small grin.  But it seemed he had good manners and wished his sister to as well. 

Worry etched Elspeth’s pretty little face.  “I am terribly sorry for saying something wrong.” 

Carly wished to alleviate her fears.  “Thank you, Jonathon.  I appreciate your thoughtfulness, but it was innocently spoken.  I am not quite as sensitive as that.”  She nodded at his sensibility, showing her approval.  “Now where were we?  Would you like to offer a prayer, Elspeth?” 

“Yes ma’am, I would be glad to…only…would you help me?  Nanny mostly forgets to say prayers with us because we make her so tired that she is just ready for bed when she finally can be rid of us,” and in a funny, made-up voice, she acted out Nanny’s words, “You children are going to be the death o’ me yet!”  Wagging her finger all the while she performed, Elspeth made Carly giggle at her funny presentation. 

            “You are a little tease, are you not?” 

            “Yes, ma’am,” smiling sweetly in response, she showed off her darling dimple again. 

            Helping Elspeth out of her bed to kneel beside it, Carly hesitated for a moment, turning around to see Jonathon’s curious eyes watching them.  Smiling at his innocent gaze, she asked him, “Would you like to join us, Jonathon?  We certainly could benefit from your faith as well.”  After a few seconds of careful deliberation, he nodded his head and scrambled out of bed on his own.  Kneeling beside Elspeth, he folded his hands together ready in prayer. 

Elspeth whispered, “Miss Blakemore, you promised me you would help.  How shall I start?  I very much want this to be a good sort of prayer.” 

            “Well, I do believe our Heavenly Father is already aware of our conversation, for we are His children, and He listens to us.  He truly is a special father who loves each of us individually.  I talk to Him just as I am talking with you, as if I were kneeling at His feet, conversing with Him about whatever I wish to talk about.  Do you think you can do that?” 

            “I am not sure.  What words would I use?” 

            “Imagine that He is sitting here on the bed next to us, and you wish to talk with Him.  What would you wish to say, Elspeth?” 

            “Well…I do love Him…,” Carly smiled at Elspeth’s effortless faith, “…and I do wish you to stay.” 

            “That is very kind, Elspeth.  Why not express yourself as simply as you have to me.” 

            “Yes, ma’am, I will try.”  Closing her eyes and bowing her head, she began, “Dear Father in Heaven, I want you to know that I love you…and miss you.  Thank you for listening to me.  I hope you remember who I am.  I wish to tell you something, please.  I do not want Miss Blakemore to leave us.  I wish her to stay.  Can…can you help my father not to be so angry, please?  I love him so very much.  Help him to be happy.  Thank you, and Amen.”  Both Carly and Jonathon said ‘Amen,’ simultaneously.  Looking shyly up, Elspeth waited for Carly to say something. 

            Smiling tenderly at Elspeth and Jonathon, Carly said, “That was a beautiful prayer, Elspeth.  And I am quite sure that our Heavenly Father heard your plea.  We should always be grateful for the opportunity to pray anytime, anywhere, for whatever reason.  He is always there, listening for us to reach out to Him.  Well done, darling.” 

Quietly, Elspeth smiled her pleased little smile, glad of the approval.  Jonathon, however, looked nervous and stood quickly.  Carly could only think maybe he would not like to pray, and, therefore, did not extend the invitation. 

Carly tucked both children in cozily.  Another thought occurred to her, and she spoke her conviction immediately.  “Children, I wish for you to understand that you may pray, day or night, with help or by yourself, whenever you wish it.  It is a wonderful gift given to us to use regularly.  So do so.”              Together, they whispered, “Yes ma’am.” 

            “If I return to my room now, will you both sleep well?” 

            “Yes ma’am.  Goodnight, Miss Blakemore.”

            “Goodnight, Elspeth.” 

            Almost inaudibly, Jonathon added, “Yes ma’am.  Goodnight…Miss Blakemore.” 

            “Goodnight, Jonathon.  Sleep well, both of you.” 

            “You have a very pretty name.”  Elspeth did not want Carly to leave, so she kept talking. 

            “Thank you, so do you.  Very unique, I think.” 

            “I was named after two of my grandmothers, did you know?” 

            “No, I did not.” 

            “My father’s mother’s name is Elisabeth, and his great-something grandmother’s was named Elspeth—which is Elisabeth in Scottish.  Did you know that?  She was from Scotland!” 

            Laughing softly, Carly said, “No, my dear, I did not know Elspeth was Elisabeth in Scottish or that you had an ancestor from Scotland.  That is very interesting.”  Smiling tenderly at the little girl, she touched her pretty, blonde ringlets.  Noticing the dimple on the right side of her cheek again, she wondered if the dimple came from her mother or from her father.  What a little beauty she was. 

“Goodnight, Elspeth darling.” 

Quietly, Carly reached over and swept Jonathon’s dark hair aside from his forehead, caressing softly.  Noticing again that his hair resembled his father’s thick, dark, slightly curly hair, she smiled and said, “Goodnight, Jonathon.  Sleep well, dear.”  And she quietly turned and exited the room. 

Sweet little children make all the difference in our lives!  Hope you like Elspeth and Jonathon!  Thanks for reading with me today!
Ellise