Summary: Adam is living and working in Paris during the World Exhibition of 1867. He meets a young flower vendor and is immediately smitten. The story is based on the Louis Marie De Schryver painting, La Rue Du Havre. A serial writing challenge done in short chapters. The chapter titles are in alphabetical order. A prequel to For The Love Of Maggie.

Rating: T WC:34378

For the Love of Maggie Series

For the Love of Maggie
Adrielle

ADRIELLE

His coffee grew cold as his eyes remained fixed on a beautiful young peasant woman standing next to a cart overflowing with flowers. There were conversations humming at the tables all around him, but they were of no interest to him today. Adam was lost in the glow of the red highlights that glinted off the woman’s golden brown tresses. Framed by the colorful backdrop of her wares, she was a glorious sight, and Adam was transfixed.

La Closerie Des Lilas was a popular spot for artists and writers in Paris. Adam had become a regular, mostly just to observe those who were busy sketching or writing in their notebooks. The conversations he overheard helped him better understand the culture. He had worked hard to improve his French and always used it rather than English unless there was no other option. Still, he felt every bit of the Nevadan rancher that he was. Even after several months in the city, he did not consider himself on equal footing with the sophisticated gentlemen that sat at the tables nearby. He wondered what they would think of his interest in a street vendor, beautiful or not.

To hell with what they think!

Adam noted the woman’s polite words and genial smile as she conversed with the haughty women of much higher standing. It made his desire for her that much more intense, and he knew he must meet her. He dropped a coin onto the table and made his way toward the street. As he passed the last table nearest the flower cart, he happened to notice the open sketchbook of the man seated there. Adam could see the outlines of the scene he had been taking in for the better part of the past hour.

He pointed to the silhouette of the young woman on the paper. “She is beautiful, yes?”

Startled from his concentration, the artist first offered a look of confusion before understanding registered on his face. “Oui, monsieur. You have an eye for true beauty.”

“Will you paint this someday?”

“Oui, monsieur. That is my hope.”

“Best of luck to you.”

“Merci monsieur. And to you.”

Adam took a wide path around to the backside of the flower cart and waited for the current customers to complete their purchases. He pretended to focus on the flowers in front of him while sneaking furtive glimpses of the woman in the striped tunic. She busily, albeit gracefully, trimmed the long stems of the chosen blooms and deftly tied them into bouquets with cord from a spool hooked to her cart. He continued to play coy until the woman came his way.

“Good morning, monsieur! It is a lovely day, yes? How may I help you?”

“They are all so beautiful. I cannot decide. Would you be so kind as to make a large bouquet for me, please?”

“I would be happy to. For the lady of the house?”

“No, mademoiselle, just for my own enjoyment.”

“Of course!” Her bright and sincere smile made his heart skip with delight.

He watched, entranced, as she danced about the cart choosing flowers for his bouquet. After completing her selections, she held out a large bundle to Adam.

“Here you are, monsieur. I hope you will find these to your liking.”

“Perfection.”

Adam’s hazel eyes locked onto the woman’s sparkling blue ones. Embarrassed by his obvious meaning, she blushed and began to fuss and adjust the flowers on her cart.

Adam leaned over the cart. “Thank you so much – excuse me – your name, please?”

All too accustomed to men’s questions, she was hesitant to oblige him. Still, there was a sincerity in his eyes, and she was drawn to the melodious sound of his voice.

“Adrielle.”

“Adrielle. Like the blue of the sea?”

Adrielle turned to face him and offered a shy smile. “Yes, monsieur, like the sea.”

Adam held out several coins, more than enough for the payment of the flowers and her effort, but not so much that it would create awkwardness. “Thank you again for making this lovely bouquet for me. I do hope we meet again soon.”

“Thank you, monsieur. You are most kind.” Emboldened by his good manners and dimpled smile, Adrielle continued. “But now you have me at a disadvantage. Your name, sir?”

“Adam Cartwright.”

Have a wonderful day, Monsieur Cartwright.”

Adam tipped his hat and walked away. He sighed with satisfaction, buried his nose in the flowers, and began to ponder his next encounter with Adrielle.

Author’s Note:

La Closerie Des Lilas Cafe and Restaurant was established in Paris in 1847 and is still known for its fine cuisine to this day. Many well-known artists and writers have dined there through the years.

 

BLUNDER

The following day, Adam went to La Closerie Des Lilas per usual. His days had been filled with pure pleasure since he left his job. He was due to set sail for Boston in six weeks and wanted to pack in as much of the sights and sounds of Paris into his remaining time. However, today he did not linger at the cafe. He questioned his waitress concerning the possible location of the flower cart. Yesterday was the first time he had seen it and Adrielle. The waitress recommended that he check near Montparnasse Cemetery, but confessed that it was simply a guess based on conversations she had overheard from some patrons of the cafe.

Adam hurried on his way. He had visited the lush cemetery grounds previously and taken time to read the inscriptions on the ornate gravestones of renowned French men and women. This time he was on a mission and walked all around the perimeter of the grounds which took him close to an hour. He happened to notice a woman carrying a bouquet of flowers as he neared where he had begun his search. Adam inquired where she had purchased her flowers and was told there was a cart just a short distance away near the Eglise Notre-Dame des Champs. It was impossible to suppress his dimpled grin when the colorful cart came into view. The young woman arranging the flowers had her back to him as he approached. Her hair was pulled up into a knot, however, today she wore a bright red scarf around her head that was tied at the back of her neck.

“Bonjour, mademoiselle! I believe I am in need of another LARGE bouquet of flowers!”

The woman spun around. “Bonjour, monsieur!”

Adam’s mouth dropped open when he saw that she was not Adrielle, but a girl in her teens.

“Monsieur? Is something wrong?”

“No, no, mademoiselle. I apologize for my rudeness. I thought you were someone else.”

A knowing smile came to her lips. “Would you be looking for Adrielle?”

“Yes. How did you know?”

The girl laughed cheerfully. “Monsieur, Adrielle is my sister.”

Adam’s eyes narrowed a bit and he emitted a nervous chuckle. “Ah, yes, I do see the resemblance now. Again, my apologies for being so forward.”

“An honest mistake, monsieur, and may I say it is not the first time that it has happened to me. You are not the only gentleman to ask for Adrielle.”

Embarrassed, Adam cleared his throat. “Yes – yes – I guess I should not be surprised to hear that.” He hesitated for a moment not sure how to proceed.

Noting Adam’s genuine discomfort, Adrielle’s sister broke the silence.

“How is it that you know my sister?”

“I purchased some flowers from her yesterday when your cart was near La Cloiserie Des Lilas.”

“Yes, she mentioned that she had a very good day there. It was the first time we took our cart there. Funny, though, she did not mention you.” The girl gave him an impish grin.

Her tease broke the tension for him. “No I don’t suppose that sisters share everything, now do they?” He arched a brow. “At least I have found it to be so with my brothers.”

She cocked her head and smiled when Adam evened the score with his playful banter. “You seem like a nice man. Who shall I tell Adrielle was asking for her?”

“Adam. Please tell her that Adam Cartwright would very much like to purchase another bouquet from her. And when and where might I find Adrielle again?”

Tomorrow, monsieur. She will be with the cart near the Pantheon. Shall I tell her to expect you?”

“Yes – yes, and thank you – uh – I’m sure you also have a lovely name like your sister.”

“Celeste.”

“Ah, yes. I was correct. A lovely name for a kind and helpful young lady. Thank you, Celeste. Good day.”

“And to you, Monsieur Cartwright. Au revoir.”

Adam turned to leave and then had second thoughts.

“Pardon me, Celeste. Which flowers are Adrielle’s favorite?”

“Ah, that is not a difficult question, Monsieur Cartwright. These.” Celeste pulled a large pink bloom from her cart. “The peonies.”

“Excellent! They are lovely. I’ll take three.”

“Of course!”

Celeste quickly had his bouquet ready and Adam paid for them including a good tip.

“Thank you again, Celeste. I hope to see you again.”

“Au revoir, Monsieur Cartwright.”

Though he did not turn to confirm his suspicions, he was certain that Celeste was watching as he walked away. Her comment about other men had his mind churning.

What I wouldn’t give to be a fly on the wall when those two meet this evening. Please speak well of me, Celeste. Tomorrow, Adrielle. Tomorrow!

 

CONVERSATIONS

Adam paused occasionally to take in the scent of the peonies he was carrying. He bought them in part to show gratitude to Celeste for her kindness, but mostly because he needed something to fill his need for Adrielle. The large blooms were delicate, fragile, and had a subtle, pleasing fragrance that drew his mind to her. He touched the velvety pink petals and reveled in the

thought of stroking Adrielle’s rosy cheek. And yet, he found it disconcerting that the peonies lost many of their outer petals as he walked along. He hoped that it was not some kind of mysterious sign.

Adam spent the remainder of the day walking about the city. He still felt uneasy that his apparent desperation to find Adrielle had prompted him to embarrass himself in front of Celeste. He was all too aware that the years were slipping away and that thus far there had been no woman who met his standards and lived or been willing to commit to a life with him. He could not sort out exactly why Adrielle had captured his heart and mind, but regardless of what happened tomorrow, he knew that the image of her standing by her cart of flowers was forever etched into his memory.

After considerable pondering, Adam settled on a gift for Adrielle. He had never before had to factor flowers out of the equation of gifts for a lady. He knew that it had to be something small and not too expensive or she would likely consider it inappropriate. Soon after coming to Paris, he had sampled Debauve and Gallais chocolates and found them to be delicious. He decided that chocolates would perfectly fit the bill and pick some up in the morning on his way to the Pantheon.

Sleep was elusive; so Adam rose early and prepared for the day. He chose simple clothing rather than the suit that he usually wore for his work. He hoped that it made him appear more rather than less sincere about his intentions and put her at ease. He carefully wrapped two small glasses in cloth napkins and a bottle of wine that he had been saving into his canvas sling bag. Besides the chocolates, he planned to pick up bread and cheese before meeting Adrielle. He headed out the door with his wallet and Barlow knife in his coat pocket and his bag crossed over his shoulder.

His first stop was Cafe’ Procope for breakfast, then west a couple of streets to the chocolatier. There was a heavenly aroma when he entered the shop. The number of chocolates in his box kept growing as he had difficulty making his choices. He knew there would likely be a few for Celeste, as well. Next he stopped at a bakery and then a cheesery. With his bag well supplied, Adam headed in the direction of the Pantheon.

City life had changed Adam’s method of getting about. Life on the ranch meant riding Sport or in some type of horse-drawn conveyance. In Paris, he was almost always on foot as most every shop or cafe that he frequented was within a mile of his room. Today, the miles would add up, but he could always hire a carriage if needed. Truthfully, he was too nervous to sit and craved the exertion of a brisk walk. He tried to quell the dialogue running through his head.

As he approached the Pantheon, he stopped to take in the grand sight. Patterned after the original structure in Greece, the meticulous architectural detail boggled his mind. He scanned the area; the streets and walkways were busy. When he saw no flower cart in front of the magnificent building, Adam chided himself for not asking Celeste when to expect Adrielle. He comforted himself that it was still early and located a bench across from the columns where he could see the traffic coming on both sides of the Pantheon.

He waited for what seemed an eternity, but was actually only about an hour. Adam first noticed the cart loaded with flowers in the back of a large wagon. Then he saw that Adrielle was seated on the front seat beside an older man. He wanted to leap up and help her with the cart, but resisted the urge to do so. The wagon soon stopped on the south side of the Pantheon. The driver helped Adrielle down and then unloaded the flower cart for her. The man kissed her cheek before departing, and she returned his farewell wave. Adrielle’s obvious familiarity with her driver left Adam wondering.

He left the bench to move toward the cart, however, it took only moments for Adrielle to get her first customer of the day leaving Adam still an onlooker. Several other passersby were showing interest by the time he drew near. He joined them hoping to make his presence known. Eventually Adrielle looked his way.

“Bonjour, monsieur! How may I help you?” A look of pleasant surprise came to her face. “Monsieur Cartwright. My apologies for not recognizing you.”

Adrielle’s reaction made him wonder whether it was his clothes or if she truly did not expect him to show up today.

“Bonjour, Adrielle. It is quite all right. Please, call me Adam.”

She gave him a demure smile and lowered her voice. “Adam – um – are you interested in some more flowers?”

“Always! I came looking for you yesterday, but instead met Celeste. There is no mistaking the two of you for sisters. She treated me very kindly in spite of my mistake. She told me that I could find you here today.”

“Yes – and here you are. As you see, it can be very busy at times. Surely you have other things to do, yes?”

“No, I am free. I have some bread and cheese for lunch and I’m happy to share.” Adam gave her a boyish, dimpled grin.

Her musical laugh pleased him more than she could ever know. “I do not have a set time to eat, but you are welcome to share MY bread and cheese and some fresh milk.”

It was Adam’s turn to be embarrassed and he chuckled. “I am happy to spend whatever time you have and we will have a grand meal of bread and cheese. If you like, I also have a bottle of wine.” He pulled the top of the bottle from his bag.

Again Adrielle laughed. “Monsieur – Adam – Thank you, but I don’t usually drink wine while working. It does not suit me well.”

“Oh, yes, of course.”

Worried that things were not going well, Adam was relieved when two women came up to make a purchase. He loved watching Adrielle’s every move. She stirred something fresh in him, feelings that he had not experienced in many years. He was trying hard to figure it all out. Was it truly Adrielle, or the beautiful sights and sounds of Paris in the beginning of summer, or the fact that he would be leaving all this behind in several weeks? There was no doubt that Adrielle was young and beautiful. Her natural beauty could not truly be emulated by the highly fashioned Parisian ladies. All he knew was that he wanted to be near her and know everything about her.

Once the ladies got their bouquets and moved on, Adam tried a new tack.

“Do you grow all these lovely flowers?”

“Yes, on our family farm just outside the city.”

“So you drive into the city?”

“My father drives our wagon to the ferry to cross the Seine and then he brings either Celeste or me into the city.”

A relieved Adam nodded and smiled when he found out the identity of Adrielle’s driver. He purposefully chose not to mention that he had been watching them earlier. He pulled a large, pink peony from a bundle on the cart.

“These are magnificent. What is the name?”

Adrielle’s brow shot up. “That is a peony, my favorite flower – but then you knew that already, did you not Adam?”

Adam’s hazel eyes twinkled. “So Celeste told you about the peonies?”

“Yes, she said that an American man asked for me and wanted to know my favorite flower.”

Adam laughed outright. “She did not mistake me for a Frenchman? I am astonished!”

Adrielle joined his laughter, but so much attention was making her rather uncomfortable. She tried to change the subject.

“I do not know much about the United States. Where are you from?”

A woman stepped forward to make a purchase before Adam could respond. Soon the cart was crowded with people eager to buy the lovely, fresh flowers.

When the flurry of customers passed, Adrielle looked at Adam and sighed. “This is how my days go. Sometimes very busy and other times not.”

She paused and took a bag from a hook on the cart. Next to the hook was a latch that released a board with a leg that dropped down making a small stool to sit on. Before sitting Adrielle pulled a small covered tin pail from inside the cart.

“I will try to get in a few bites before the next sale. Sorry I do not have another stool.”

Adrielle proceeded to break off bits of bread and cheese to eat, keeping her head down and focusing on the contents of the bag in her lap. With no conversation coming, Adam leaned on the cart and began doing the same with the food he had brought. There was a period of silence and then Adam chuckled.

“Well this is not exactly how I imagined things would go.”

Puzzled, Adrielle looked up at him. “How so, Adam? What did you expect?”

“Somehow in my mind it seemed so romantic – Paris – all the pretty flowers – a beautiful woman -.

His honesty and sincerity made Adrielle blush and look at her bag in her lap. Adam squatted down on one knee and ever so gently touched his finger to her chin to bring her eyes to meet his.

“Adrielle, I have no idea how this is going to work, or if you even want it to. But I do want to know that my intentions are honorable and sincere and that it will be up to you to show me where we go from here.”

Lost in each other’s eyes, the tender moment ended all too soon when an obviously annoyed customer cleared her throat. Adrielle jumped up and put her bag back on its hook and the pail of milk into the cart. Adam helped by latching the stool back into place.

“I will just take a little stroll and see you in a bit.”

She gave him a quick nod and went to attend to her customer.

Adam walked about the Pantheon plaza for a time, but remained at a distance just observing Adrielle at work. During a lull, she pulled out her pail of milk and took a long drink. She made the simplest actions look graceful. After she replaced the pail, Adam walked over and rested his elbow on the cart.

“You’ve been busy and that is a good thing I am certain, but I wish we had not been interrupted.”

“Adam – I” Adrielle paused when he held up a finger.

“Will you be back in the city in two days?”

She nodded. “At the Eglise Saint-Jacques du Haut Pas.”

“And I have your permission to stop and see you?”

Adrielle gave him a sweet smile. “Yes – but ”

Again Adam held up a finger. “Wonderful! I promise not to turn it into such a long affair.”

Adrielle laughed. “I will look forward to your visit, Monsieur Cartwright.”

“I have a little something for you before I leave.” Adam pulled the box of chocolates from his bag and handed it to Adrielle.

“Thank you, Adam. You are very kind.”

“My pleasure! And now I bid you farewell, Mademoiselle – Your surname?”

“Perrot”

“Adieu, Mademoiselle Perrot.”

“Adieu.”

References:

The Café Procope, in rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 6th arrondissement, is called the oldest café of Paris in continuous operation, however it was closed 1872-1920. It was established in 1686 by the Sicilian chef Procopio Cutò and was a hub of the artistic and literary community in 18th and 19th century Paris.

Debauve and Gallais Chocolate: Sulpice Debauve (1757–1836), former chemist to French king Louis XVI, devised “the novel combination of cocoa, cane sugar, and medicine after Marie Antoinette complained to him about the unpleasant taste of the medicines she had to take.” The queen was so pleased that she named those exquisite coin-shaped chocolates Pistoles. Debauve continued to create a variety of flavored Pistoles for the queen. Finally in 1800, Debauve opened his first chocolate shop on the Rive Gauche of Paris, at Faubourg Saint-Germain.

In 1816, Debauve was appointed as the sole chocolate supplier to the French royal families. In 1819, Napoleon’s official architects Percier and Fontaine designed the new shop, which is now classified as a historical monument, located at 30 Rue des Saints-Pères. In 1823, Debauve took in his nephew Jean-Baptiste Auguste Gallais (1787–1838), also a chemist, as an associate in order to create and distribute his dietary chocolates; known then as “healthy chocolates” they were made with almond milk, vanilla and orange blossom water. Gallais published four years later in 1827 his Monographie du cacao ou manuel de l’amateur de chocolat which offered a scientific approach to chocolate.

Sulpice Debauve died in 1836, followed by his nephew Jean-Baptiste Galais in 1838. Their trade was then acquired by Mr. Théry who handed it over, in 1857, to Nicolas-Eugène Hugon. The later built in 1857 a factory powered by a steam engine, located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. He was awarded a bronze medal at the Universal Exposition of Art and Industry of Paris in 1867.

The Panthéon – pántheion, ‘[temple] to all the gods’ is a monument in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, France. It stands in the Latin Quarter, atop the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, in the center of the Place du Panthéon, which was named after it. The edifice was built between 1758 and 1790, from designs by Jacques-Germain Soufflot, at the behest of King Louis XV of France; the king intended it as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, Paris’ patron saint, whose relics were to be housed in the church. Neither Soufflot nor Louis XV lived to see the church completed.

By the time the construction was finished, the French Revolution had started, and the National Constituent Assembly voted in 1791 to transform the Church of Saint Genevieve into a mausoleum for the remains of distinguished French citizens, modelled on the Pantheon in Rome which had been used in this way since the 16th century.

 

DOUBTS

For the second day in a row, Adam was frustrated with the way his previous day had gone. He had managed to learn a little more about Adrielle, but mostly she seemed confused and occasionally irritated by his attention. Thankful that she was still willing to see him again, Adam tried to think of ways to fill his time knowing that Adrielle would not be back in the city until the following day. The hours crept by despite his returning to see some of the wondrous sights of the World Exhibition. It had been his original reason for coming to Paris, and he had visited the exhibits often during the past months. Though standing in front of a magnificent sculpture and clockwork, he was unable to keep from thinking about Adrielle and hired a carriage to take him to a ferry crossing on the east side of the city. Adam then made some inquiries of the workers if a wagon carrying a flower cart ever used this ferry. Though the men thought his question a bit odd, they confirmed that this was likely the crossing the Perrot’s used.

The next day, Adam ventured to the cathedral of Eglise Saint-Jacques du Haut Pas in the mid afternoon. He waited until then because he wanted to make sure that Adrielle did not feel pressured by an early arrival and so she would have time to eat her lunch without him hovering over her. He decided to watch her from afar until there was a lull in the flow of customers before approaching.

However, much to his chagrin, her father and a much younger man pulled up to load the flower cart just as he was preparing to go and speak with Adrielle. Adam moved closer to get a better look at the strapping young peasant man whose voluminous blond hair stuck out from under his flat billed cap. The man handily pushed the cart up the ramps into the back of the wagon. Because of the distance and the constant interruption of his line of sight by the pedestrian traffic, Adam could not tell for certain whether the man resembled Adrielle or her father. He was conflicted and uncertain about risking another embarrassing situation by running up. He so badly wanted to let her know that he had not forgotten her and knew that he would not be able to keep up on foot once the wagon got going. Adrielle was soon sandwiched on the seat between her father and the younger man. Adam bristled at the thought of another man vying for her attention. He then made a split second decision to force an encounter that would at least let her know he had shown up and possibly get him an introduction to both men. He clapped his hand against the side of the wagon and reset one of the bolts holding up the back gate.

Adam shouted toward the seat, “Please excuse the intrusion, but the bolt was not securely fastened.”

Immediately three heads turned his way. Again, Adam smacked the side board letting them know that all was well. He smiled at Adrielle, and threw up a hand. The men’s looks were a mix of surprise and frustration. Though Adrielle had recognized Adam’s voice, he was taken aback by the shocked expression on her face. Gathering herself, Adrielle opened her mouth to speak, but changed her mind. Adam’s smile faded quickly when she chose not to acknowledge him. Still, he offered them a kind farewell and walked away.

“Merci, monsieur!”, Adrielle called out.

Adam did not see the strange looks that her father and the other man shot at her. By the time he turned around to wave in response to Adrielle’s gratitude, the wagon was pulling away and no one was looking in his direction. Dejected, he walked away berating himself for allowing his feelings to override his judgment. He wondered if he had totally misread Adrielle and if she was already in a relationship with a man much closer in age. Still, the thought that he might never see her again was devastating.

References:

The International Exposition of 1867 was the second world’s fair to be held in Paris, from 1 April to 3 November 1867. A number of nations were represented at the fair. Following a decree of Emperor Napoleon III, the exposition was prepared as early as 1864, in the midst of the renovation of Paris, marking the culmination of the Second French Empire. Visitors included Tsar Alexander II of Russia, a brother of the emperor of Japan, King William and Otto von Bismarck of Prussia, Prince Metternich and Franz Josef of Austria, Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz, and the Khedive of Egypt Isma’il.

There were 50,226 exhibitors, of whom 15,055 were from France and her colonies, 6176 from Great Britain and Ireland, 703 from the United States and a small contingent from Canada. The funds for the construction and maintenance of the exposition consisted of grants of $1,165,020 from the French government, a like amount from the city of Paris, and about $2,000,000 from public subscription, making a total of $5,883,400; while the receipts were estimated to have been but $2,822,900, thus leaving a deficit, which, however, was offset by the subscriptions from the government and the city of Paris, so that the final report was made to show a gain.

Henri-Eugène-Adrien Farcot (20 February 1830 in Sainville – 14 March 1896 in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés) was a French clock-maker, industrialist, inventor, mechanical-engineer, aeronaut, occasional writer and one of the most celebrated conical pendulum clock makers. Throughout his career path, Eugène Farcot was awarded with one honorable mention and four medals in the following expositions: Besançon 1860 (bronze), London 1862 (honorable mention), Paris (1863 bronze, 1867 bronze & 1878 silver), as well as Henri Wandenberg, both with a silver medal in Paris 1889 and a gold medal in Paris 1900.

 

EVALUATION

The next several days resulted in Adam wandering aimlessly around the city. Lost in the throngs of people that were in Paris to attend the exhibition, he grew less hopeful by the day of finding Adrielle again. The days spanned a weekend and he doubted that the Perrot’s would be working on a Sunday. Though Adam had not discussed religion with her, he assumed that Adrielle’s family would attend Mass on Sundays. He had visited many cathedrals and attended a few Masses while in Paris. He found the structure and the liturgy comforting though overall the services were much different than those he was accustomed to in America. Searching for solace, Adam went to the church nearest his room to listen and reflect. However, he left the service conflicted and with a heavy heart.

With only five weeks left until he was due to set sail for the United States, Adam pondered on the rationale of even trying to connect with Adrielle. There was a position waiting for him with Henry Hobson Richardson’s architectural firm in Boston despite the fact that Adam had done little in that field for many years. He had remained in contact with his friend from his time at college and was looking forward to getting back into his area of study. This made his obsession with Adrielle all the more difficult to sort out and understand.

Having no success after returning to all the places where he knew Adrielle had sold flowers, Adam hired a buggy and went to the ferry crossing early on a Tuesday. His instincts were rewarded. He was relieved and even somewhat excited to see that only Adrielle’s father was on the seat with her when the Perrot’s wagon came off the ferry. Adam instructed his driver to follow them. His surreptitious journey eventually ended at the cathedral of Saint-Sulpice when Perrot stopped and unloaded the flower cart. Adam ignored the skeptical look of his driver as he handed the man a handsome tip for his unusual task. Once again, Adam waited in the fringes until there was an opportunity to speak with Adrielle.

“Adam? I was wondering if I would see you again.”

He was not sure how to read her surprised expression. “As was I. By a stroke of good luck, I found the ferry where you cross the Seine. Otherwise, I am not sure that I would have ever seen you again.”

Adrielle turned her attention back to the flowers on her cart for a moment.

“Adrielle, I – I – uh – would really like to speak with you somewhere when you are not working. I am willing to come to your farm if you are willing to see me there.”

The smile that first graced her countenance faded quickly. “I would be willing, but my father and Adrien would not.”

“Adrien? The man sitting beside you in the wagon.” Adam sighed.

“Yes. He is – very interested in getting married.”

Adam’s heart sank. “But you said nothing of having a beau.”

“I am sorry if I hurt you or gave you the wrong impression, but to be honest, men say things to me all the time. How was I to know that you were different.”

“Because I told you so. I said that my intentions were sincere.”

“Adam, as I said, many men proclaim their love one day and are never seen again.”

He loathed the thought of her having to put up with such nonsense, but he knew it was likely the truth.

“I am sorry that you have to endure the unwanted and insincere attention of rogues. You do not deserve that. I want to again assure you that I am not one of those men.”

She looked at him trying to read his face before he continued.

“So you said that Adrien wants to marry you. Do you want to marry him?”

Adrielle looked intently at Adam and grew uncomfortable with his scrutiny. “I – yes – I suppose -”

Just then, a customer came up and began looking at the flowers. Adrielle walked away to find out what flowers the woman wanted. There were others waiting by the time she had completed the woman’s bouquet. It took some time before Adrielle was free again. Adam had waited nearby the entire time so that he would not miss an opportunity to speak with her. He watched her closely as he moved near the cart. She gave him a weary smile despite that it was still morning.

“Looks like it will be a busy day for you.”

“Yes, I hope so, otherwise we will have to give away what is left.”

“I was wondering about that.”

“Really?” Adrielle was taken aback by his interest.

“Yes, really. I would like to know all about what you do.”

Adrielle shook her head in disbelief. “Well then, yes, We drop all of our excess at a hotel. It is convenient because it is on our way to the ferry.”

A man stopped at the cart and gave Adam a skeptical glance. Adrielle attended to his request which Adam was happy to determine was all business. Adam continued their conversation once she was free.

“Does your father work in the city?”

“Yes, he does deliveries for some small businesses.”

“Would it be possible for me to meet him this afternoon when he comes to get you?”

Adrielle shrugged. ” I suppose so – but he will not be able to be delayed for long or we will miss the ferry.”

“I understand. I would like to ask him about seeing your farm. I grew up on a cattle ranch so I am curious to see your farm.

Adrielle looked at him with amusement. “A cattle ranch? You? You do not look or act like someone who would have worked with animals. Your family must be very wealthy.”

“I suppose to many people it would appear that way, but my father, brothers, and me built it from nothing but the land. It was a lot of hard work, day in and day out for years.”

She cocked her head and contemplated what he had said, but just as she was about to ask more, another round of customers came up. After completing several bouquets, she reached into the cart for her pail of milk and took a drink.

Feeling a bit awkward, Adrielle held out the pail to Adam. “Would you like a drink?”

Adam’s hazel eyes lit up. “Yes, thank you.” He took a sip and gave her a dimpled smile. “It has been quite a while since I had milk this fresh.”

She paused for a moment taking in this strange American man standing before her. Adam licked his bottom lip and returned the pail to her.

“Yes, it is very fresh. I milked the cow myself early this morning.”

Adrielle watched Adam closely for any sense of disdain or aversion to her admission. Seeing none, she put the pail back into the cart. She then set work rearranging the flowers on the cart.

“A job that must be done, but it does have its benefits.”

“True , but I would like to hear more about you. You spoke of your father and brothers but not your mother.”

“My mother died right after I was born. My father married two more times but lost both those wives as well. I have a brother from each marriage.”

There was genuine sadness in Adrielle’s eyes when she turned to face Adam. “I am very sorry Adam. That must have been very hard for you.”

“Thank you. Yes, there were some very difficult times.”

“Yes, I understand in a small way. My mother passed away five years ago. Like you, I am the oldest. I have two other sisters besides Celeste and two brothers.”

Adam’s eyes went soft. “I am sorry to hear that you lost your mother. I would imagine that many of her responsibilities fell to you.”

Adrielle tipped her head to the side acknowledging his insight. “We all have our jobs, but, yes, until the last year or so.” A woman walked up to the cart as she was speaking. “And it appears that I need to be doing mine.”

Adam nodded and stepped back. He was pleased that they had managed to converse as much as they had. He also felt like he was gaining Adrielle’s respect and trust. The day continued on in much the same fashion, however, Adam left for a time when Adrielle ate her lunch. He returned a little while later with a pastry for her which earned him a sweet smile and her thanks. Though she thoroughly enjoyed the delicious treat , Adam sensed that Adrielle was growing uncomfortable as the afternoon wore on.

“Are you concerned about me meeting your father?”

Adrielle heaved a sigh. “I am sorry it is so obvious, but yes. You should know that my father likes Adrien very much. He is a hard worker and an honest man. Though there is nothing binding us yet, I believe Papa wants us to be married.”

“Earlier you seemed unsure about your feelings for Adrien. Is that true?”

Again she shrugged. “I have known Adrien since I was a child. Our families are close. We understand each other’s lives.”

“But do you love him?”

“Adam, I barely know you. I am not sure that is a question you should be asking me.”

He knew she was right, but it still galled him that she might marry a man she did not love strictly out of obligation. Frustrated as he was, he understood he was out of line.

“You are right. I should not have asked that. I apologize.”

Confused, Adrielle opened her mouth to speak and then refrained.

“What were you going to say?”

“I am not sure you would want to hear it.”

“No, please. You must not leave me wondering.”

“It is just – well – Papa says that Americans are loud and coarse, and selfish.”

She paused, but Adam surmised there was more.

“Go ahead. Say it all.”

Adrielle sighed as though it pained her. “And that they have come to Paris in droves to eat and drink and ruin our beautiful city. Though I do not share his opinion as far as you are concerned, Adam, you would have a huge obstacle to overcome in his mind.”

He nodded with understanding. “Unfortunately, I would have to agree with your father. There are many Americans who are leaving a very bad impression while they are visiting this lovely city.” He then offered her a knowing smile. “But – maybe I am here to change his opinion – at least of one American. Yes?”

Adrielle suddenly burst out with a giggle, intrigued by his persistence. “Maybe, but I would not hold your breath.”

Adam chuckled. “I promise to be on my best behavior.”

As it turned out, lady luck smiled on Adam following a very cold reception from Adrielle’s father. One of the wheels on the flower cart broke off as Henri Perrot was pushing it up the ramps. Adam quickly moved into position and helped to push it up into the wagon. He retrieved the wheel and propped it securely in the wagon bed. He also helped with the ramps and the bolts for the gate.

“Thank you, Monsieur Cartwright. Your help was greatly appreciated.” Perrot pulled out a wrinkled handkerchief and wiped his brow.

“You are welcome, Monsieur Perrot. Happy to be of assistance.” Adam held out his right hand.

Henri Perrot awkwardly stashed his handkerchief in the pocket of his coat and accepted Adam’s gesture.

Adam looked at Adrielle and was pleased to see that she was trying very hard to keep her amusement about the situation from her father.

“Here, please allow me.”

Adam deftly helped Adrielle up into the front box. She thanked him and then turned to her father and whispered something as he was climbing up to take his seat.

Perrot leaned forward and spoke. “Monsieur Cartwright, we would be happy for you to join us for dinner this Sunday. Adrielle can explain how to find our place on Thursday at La Closerie Des Lilas.”

Adam gave the older man a warm smile. “Thank you, Monsieur Perrot. It would be my pleasure.” He waved in parting. “Until then.”

“Au revoir”, Adrielle called.

Adam’s wink did not go unnoticed by her.

Reference:

The Church of Saint-Sulpice is a Roman Catholic church in Paris, France, on the east side of Place Saint-Sulpice, in the Latin Quarter of the 6th arrondissement. It is the second largest church in the city. It is dedicated to Sulpitius the Pious. Construction of the present building, the second church on the site, began in 1646.

 

FRIENDSHIP

On Thursday, Adam went to La Closerie Des Lilas as soon as it opened. He consumed several cups of coffee and a few pastries which he enjoyed immensely. However, neither helped him to wait patiently for Adrielle to arrive. He released a deep sigh when the Perrot wagon came into view, then repositioned his chair so that Henri Perrot would not see him as the wagon pulled up near the cafe.

Once again, Adam chose to give Adrielle ample time to get set up and receive her first few customers before approaching her. Watching her at work brought him great pleasure. Adrielle was gentle and nimble. She reminded him of characters he had read about in a work of Shakespeare.

“Good morning Mademoiselle! Lovely day, yes?” Adam beamed a boyish grin.

“Oui, monsieur! A beautiful day indeed!” Adrielle returned his smile and lowered her voice a bit. “I was wondering when you would stop by.”

“Oh, were you expecting me?” Adam teased.

She propped a hand on her hip. “Well, you said that I should take you at your word.”

“Absolutely! And voila, I am here.”

Adrielle laughed cheerfully.

“But as much as I would like to stay for most of the day, I do not intend to be a bother.” It gave Adam hope to see a hint of disappointment in her blue eyes. “I came to visit for a short time and get the directions to your farm.”

“You are not a bother. In fact, I now know that you can be a great help. Or was all that just to impress Papa?”

“He needed help and I believe you should offer it if you are able. But maybe it helped a little with his opinion of me, yes?”

“Yes, Papa was quite impressed. He never expected an American to risk dirtying his hands for a French farmer.”

“Ouch, that is a harsh critique, but sadly it may be well deserved. So I take it that the invitation still stands.”

Adrielle gave him a knowing smile. “Of course. My father is also a man of his word.”

“Excellent!”

“Papa is looking forward to giving you a grand tour.” Her sarcasm did not go unnoticed.

“I am looking forward to it. But more importantly, will there be an opportunity to take a walk with a certain young woman after the tour?”

“Possibly.” There was a lilt to her response.

Adam leaned in and whispered, “It will be the highlight of my day.”

Adrielle could feel the warmth of his breath on her neck causing her body to tingle with excitement. She had never felt this way with Adrien and it caused her to blush. Adam backed away. He felt it best to leave her wanting more especially with the possibility of a more private walk on Sunday. After she regained her composure, Adrielle explained to Adam how to get to the Perrot farm. This would be the last he would see her before Sunday since neither she nor Celeste worked in the city on Saturday.

The next few days passed very slowly, but when Sunday finally arrived, Adam rose early. He put on clothing that would not set him apart from his hosts and hastily ate some bread and cheese. His first stop was the livery for a horse. He had not ridden in quite some time. The minimal French saddle Adam was given reminded him more of riding bare-back with his Paiute friends as a boy than his large western rig he was accustomed to. From the livery, he rode to the ferry and waited for the next crossing. He had been on the Seine for a pleasure excursion, however, this was quite different. He was riding with the working class and not the high society crowd. Because of the early hour, the river was busy with freight traffic rather than pleasure boats. After crossing the river, he rode south a short distance through Charenton-le-Pont and secured a room for the night. The ferry ran a short schedule on Sundays and the Perrots were not in a position to handle an overnight guest.

Adam was soon riding through the tranquil rolling countryside which helped to put him more at ease. He took his time while keeping an eye on the sun overhead so as not to arrive too early at the Perrot place. At the crossroads in the next small village, he took the road to the east. Soon there were patches of flowers dotting the landscape on both sides of the narrow dirt road. A modest home and barn stood on the left. He stopped and dismounted by the gate in front of the house. Two brown-haired boys, who Adam thought to be about twelve and fourteen, seemed to appear out of nowhere. Mattieu and Lucas had been expecting him. Lucas took his horse as Mattieu went to the house. Within moments Adrielle appeared on the doorstep. Her hair was pulled up with a bright orange scarf and she was wearing an apron which showed signs of use, but to Adam she was every bit the vision he had conjured in his mind.

Adrielle welcomed him warmly, albeit a bit nervously, into her family’s humble home. The downstairs was predominantly a kitchen with a long table that had two benches and a chair at each end. A door behind the table exited onto a back porch. There was a small sitting area in one corner of the room and a landing for the stairs in the other. A door to a bedroom was beside the stairway. He greeted Celeste and the last introduction was made to the youngest member of the family, Chloe’. Adrielle then showed Adam to the wash stand to freshen up beside the back door. Henri Perrot entered as Adam was drying his hands.

“Monsieur Perrot.” Adam held out his hand. “Thank you for inviting me to your home for dinner.”

Perrot nodded with little expression. “You have already washed. Welcome to our home.”

Adam dropped his hand. “Yes, thank you.” He replaced the towel he was holding on the hook beside the stand and moved out of the way.

Soon they were all seated at the table for the prayer. Adrielle and Celeste brought two chicken pies, wilted greens, stewed apples, and two round loaves of rustic bread to the table. Milk was poured into cups for all. The women took their seats again. Despite his ambivalent greeting, Perrot served Adam a piece of chicken pie and told him to help himself to the other dishes. Adam filled his plate and then waited for the others to serve themselves before taking his first bite.

“Delicious! My compliments to the cooks! Thank you again for allowing me to join you today.”

Perrot paused mid bite and looked at his older daughters who were beaming at Adam’s praise, but then went back to eating. It was quiet around the table for a while except for the sounds of silverware on the plates. Adrielle finally broke the silence.

“We do not have much contact with people from the United States. Monsieur Cartwright, please tell us about where you are from.”

Adam set his fork down on his plate. “Certainly. Well, for most of my life, I lived on a cattle ranch in the western part of the country in the state of Nevada. We grew our herd from just a few steers, to hundreds. Every year we would drive them to market. A long, hot, dusty journey. There are small parts of Nevada that are lush and green like it is here. We graze our cattle in those places, however, much of Nevada is rocky and dry. There is also a lot of mining for silver and gold. The town near our ranch is known for one of the largest silver strikes in the country.”

Mattieu’s and Lucas’ eyes went wide at the mention of silver and gold. Adam could tell he had their interest, but because of their ages they were probably not yet allowed to say much during meal time. He paused and took a bite of the chicken pie.

“This really is wonderful. It reminds me -” Lost in a good memory from the past, Adam suddenly stopped. He was not sure how to speak of Hop Sing without it sounding ostentatious or lead to a discussion of the loss of his mother and step-mothers and put a damper on the dinner-time conversation.

“Please go on.” Adrielle prompted.

“Someone I knew growing up used to make chicken pies similar to this. That is all.”

“Let the man eat, daughter. That is why he came.” Henri Perrot gave Adrielle a hard look.

Adrielle’s cheeks went red and everyone’s interest suddenly went back to their plates. There was little conversation after that except for requests to pass the food. Adam glanced over at Adrielle every now again to let her know he understood. When it appeared that everyone was done, Celeste and Chloe’ began clearing the table.

“Come Monsieur Cartwright. We will take a walk.” Perrot’s words sounded more like a command than a polite request as he motioned toward the back door.

“Yes, I would like that and thank you again for dinner.” Adam nodded to Adrielle.

“Papa, there will be berry galette when you return.” Adrielle offered cheerfully.

“Good” Perrot responded without turning around.

Adam’s silly expression when he looked back over his shoulder let Adrielle know that he was looking forward to dessert even if her grumpy father was not. She put her hand over her mouth to stifle a giggle.

When Adam and Adrielle’s father returned a little over an hour later, Perrot seemed in a better mood. The family returned to the table for the delicious mixed berry dessert with beaten cream. When they had eaten their fill, Perrot made a request.

“Monsieur Cartwright, tell my boys how you and your father traveled across your big country in a covered wagon when you were just a young lad.”

Adam’s brows shot up in surprise. The topic had come up on their walk and had apparently made more of an impression than he first thought.

“I would be happy to. Guess I have a lot of my father in me. He loves to tell stories to anyone who will listen.”

Perrot chuckled at Adam’s comment. Adrielle pulled a face in shock and had to turn away until she recovered.

Adam proceeded to share some of his childhood experiences foregoing the tragic ones. Time passed as the Perrot family sat totally absorbed in Adam’s stories. When he paused to take a sip of coffee, he realized that the sun had dropped in the sky and that he should be going.

“Well, I believe I should take my leave before it gets too late.” Adam pushed back his chair. “Thank you again for a wonderful meal and the tour of your farm. I have not had a better afternoon since I am not sure just when.”

Henri Perrot told Lucas to retrieve Adam’s horse from the barn. He then held out his hand to Adam.

“It was a pleasure to have you in our home, Monsieur Cartwright. Best of luck to you.”

“Thank you, Monsieur Perrot, and to you and your family as well.”

There was a finality to Perrot’s words that Adam was not quite sure how to take. He was shown out the front door and Lucas quickly had his horse standing along the road.

“I will accompany Monsieur Cartwright for a little way, if you do not mind, Papa.” Adrielle’s look was firm though her tone was pleasant.

“As you wish, daughter. “Au revoir, Monsieur Cartwright.”

“Au revoir”, Adam called and waved to the family before taking the reins from Lucas.

Adrielle and Adam, who was leading his horse, walked slowly away from the Perrot’s home. They did not speak until they were beyond the point of being heard. Adam waited for her to begin the conversation.

“You made quite an impression with Mattieu and Lucas.”

Adam chuckled softly. “That is all well and good, but it was not them I had hoped to impress.”

“Yes, well, I believe father finds you a very interesting man, but I am not sure he knows quite what to make of you,” Adrielle kept her eyes fixed on the horizon.

“And what about you? What do you think?”

She stopped and turned toward him. “I am not sure what to think. I – I – have never met anyone like you before.”

Adam reached out and gently touched her cheek. “Nor I you.”

Adrielle looked away, but he tenderly pulled her back to face him. “All I am asking for now is that you give us more time.”

“Adam, I just do not know how it can possibly work.”

“Trust me to think about that. Can you do that?”

Adrielle heaved a great sigh. “I will try, Adam.”

“That is all I ask. But maybe this will help.”

He leaned down and lightly brushed his lips over hers and then kissed her forehead. Adrielle’s eyes remained closed savoring the moment. When she opened her eyes, she found a radiant, dimpled smile on his face.

He hated to break the spell of the moment, but knew he must. “I need to go, but before I do where will I find you next?”

“I will be at the Pantheon on Tuesday.”

“All right. I will see you there.”

“Au revoir, Adam.”

“Au revoir, sweet Adrielle.”

Adam reached out to mount his horse, but then quickly turned to kiss her lightly once more. “I am going now.”

He grinned mischievously at her which made her laugh out loud. He mounted the horse and waved as he trotted off. Once out of Adrielle’s sight, Adam had to resist the urge to shout with satisfaction and delight. He was not in a hurry since he only needed to make the boarding house before dark. However, he was suddenly startled from his pleasant thoughts and reined up short when a beefy young farmer wielding a scythe jumped out into the middle of the road.

 

GAMESMANSHIP

The large young man brandishing a scythe abruptly pushed Adam’s pleasant thoughts of his afternoon with the Perrots and his parting kisses with Adrielle into the background.

“Can I help you? It is Adrien, yes?”

Adam held his jittery horse steady and noted the weight of his Derringer in his coat pocket. He carried it primarily to deter petty thieves that were common in Paris, and would use it only if it was absolutely necessary.

“So Adrielle has told you about me. Did she also tell you that we are going to get married?” Adrien raised the sharp blade of the scythe causing Adam’s horse to shy.

Adam handily kept control of his horse. “No she did not.”

He knew that he was offering the angry man only half of the truth, but from Adrielle’s perspective he believed he was in the right.

“You dirty American dog! You have no right to be sniffing around Adrielle like a filthy animal!”

Adrien spat out the ugly words and lifted the scythe higher this time. Adam backed his horse up hoping to avoid being thrown.

“You should know that I was visiting the Perrots at their invitation.”

“I do not believe you! Henri Perrot does not like Americans. He would never do such a thing.”

“Well, either you are mistaken or he has changed his mind. If you do not believe me, go ask him yourself.”

Beads of perspiration slipped down the big peasant’s face. He had expected Adam to be afraid and found the dark-haired older man’s confident piercing gaze disconcerting. Seeing that Adam refused to be cowed, Adrien lowered the scythe and stepped aside.

“Be on your way and do not come back here again. Do you hear me?”

“I hear you, but if I receive another invitation from the Perrots, you will definitely be seeing me again if you come snooping around. Understood?”

Adrien growled. “Just go!”

Adam kicked his horse and rode off toward the village leaving the frustrated young frenchman standing in the middle of the road, his knuckles white on the handles of the scythe.

Adam’s mind was swirling as he rode to Charenton-le-Pont. Though Adrien seemed to be mostly bluster, he could not help but worry that the large man might hurt Adrielle. He fought the urge to return to the Perrot’s, but then chastised himself for being the catalyst for setting this and potentially even more turmoil into motion. In his heart, he knew that Adrielle’s concerns about them having a future together were valid and in truth highly improbable. And yet, he could not just let her go.

His sleep came in bits and pieces as his mind was still roiling. Despite a leisurely breakfast and refreshing trip across the Seine, Monday dragged by. Adam managed to restrain himself until mid morning on Tuesday to arrive at the Pantheon. Adrielle’s expression when she saw him made his heart sink.

“Adrielle? What is it?”

Her head was down, focused on rearranging her flowers.

“Adrielle? Please?”

Her voice was a whisper. “I know what happened after you left – well – at least, I am fairly certain.”

“Adrien came to the house?”

She nodded.

“Did he hurt you in any way? Because if he did…”

She turned to face him. The tears in her eyes nearly broke him.

Adrielle shook her head. “No. No. Nothing like that. Celeste let him in – I was doing dishes – he stormed past me and out the back door to talk to Papa on the porch.”

“I see. And did you hear their discussion?”

“Pieces here and there, but enough to get the idea that he must have threatened you.”

Adam took her hands and held them. “It was nothing. Really. I think he thought he could scare me – ” He paused and smiled. “But I do not scare easily.”

Adrielle’s eyes narrowed. “Do you think this is some kind of a game? Because I do not want to play games and definitely not one where the people I care about will get hurt!”

Her body was quivering. Adam looked about to make sure there was no one near the cart and then pulled her close.

“I am sorry. I should not have made light of Adrien’s actions. He obviously has feelings for you.”

When she was calmer, he released her. “What did your father say to him?”

“I could not hear everything, but I think he told him to be patient. And that I was just some flight of fancy for you that would pass.” She looked at him, her eyes glistening with tears. “Is that what I am to you, Adam?”

Again he pulled her close, not caring who saw or what they might think. “Absolutely not!”

They heard a female voice coming from the other side of the cart. She asked if it was the flowers that were for sale or the side show. Adrielle pushed Adam away. She swiped at her tears and then smoothed her tunic and apron and went to attend to her customer. He cursed the arrogant woman under his breath for coming up at that exact moment. Adrielle took her time with the woman in spite of her snide remark and gave her an extra large bouquet. Even though no other customers came up, she remained on the opposite side of the cart from Adam fiddling with the buckets of flowers. He slowly moved closer but gave her some space.

“I am sorry for embarrassing you. That was not my intent.”

Adam wanted to go on and say that the woman had been rude, but he knew there was no point.

Adrielle still refused to look at him. “Whether or not you meant it to be, it was. Maybe you should go.”

“Is that really what you want?”

She turned to look him in the eyes. “That is the problem. I do not know what I want. My life used to be simple and orderly. I knew what to expect from day to day. It was not an exciting life, but I felt happy, even content. And then you came along, and -”

“And upset the flower cart?” Adam could not help but give her a little smirk.

She cocked her head in frustration, but then a funny little laugh squeaked out causing them both to burst out laughing. It was good, cleansing laughter.

“What am I to do with you, Adam Cartwright?”

He reached out to stroke her cheek. His hand hovered for a moment, but then not wanting to embarrass her, he brought his hand back down. “What am I to do with you, Adrielle Perrot? ***Avoir un coup de foudre pour quelqu’un.***”

Puzzled, Adrielle tipped her head to the side, and then shook it in disbelief.

He took her hand. “I know it is difficult for you to believe, but I promise you it is the truth.”

“But how do you even know this saying?”

Adam smiled. “My step-mother taught me French. She used the saying in reference to my father. Apparently, he had a similar experience with her. She was a beautiful woman. But you, my dear Adrielle, are even more lovely because your beauty radiates from within and fills your whole being.”

For a few seconds, Adrielle felt as though she was in a fairy-tale, lost in the sincerity of his warm hazel eyes and his velvety smooth voice. As she came back into reality, she quickly scanned about to make sure that she was not neglecting her duties. She sighed in relief and frustration.

“Your words make me feel like a princess, but I am not a princess. I am a common peasant. I am not educated like you. My family does not have the means to travel about the world. I want to believe you, Adam, but then what? My family is here. Your roots are in America even if you never go back to your family’s business. It is just so hard to sort out and it frightens me.”

“Then I will stay and prove myself to you.”

“Stay? What do you mean?”

“I have a job offer in Boston. It is a standing offer. I have put it off for years. It can wait.”

Adrielle could not believe what she was hearing. “You would do this for me? But what will you do here? You told Papa that you had been working for a shipping company and stopped to have time to visit the exhibition.”

“I will find something. There are jobs to be had with all the visitors in Paris right now. I may even be able to get my previous job back. But I will find work and then I will speak to your father about courting you.”

“And if he says no?”

“Then I will just have to persuade him otherwise.” Adam gave her a cheeky grin, however, Adrielle still looked conflicted. Suddenly crestfallen, he continued. “Unless you would prefer that I do not stay.”

“Adam, you do not understand. I have no say in the matter. I will have to do whatever Papa says. I believe the only reason he has not given Adrien permission to marry me is because he needs me yet to take care of things on the farm and help with Chloe’. It matters little that I am older than most girls who marry. Everything changed when Mama passed.”

A fashionably dressed couple came up to the cart putting a stop to the conversation. The gentleman asked his lady what flowers she would like, and Adrielle assembled the bouquet for her. As often happened, other customers approached upon seeing someone else buying flowers. Adam stepped away so he would not be a bother, but remained nearby. When the last of the customers walked off, he went back to the cart. The weary smile Adrielle offered made him wonder whether she was truly tired or just tired of his attention.”

Adam spoke to her in hushed tones. “Your feelings may not matter to your father, but they matter very much to me.” He could see the tears building in her deep blue eyes. “You give so much time and energy to your family and put your feelings aside. It may be hard to believe, but I do understand some of what you are feeling.”

“But you left.”

“Yes, finally. I probably should have gone sooner. My father still had the final say on all matters of significance, and things were often very tense with my youngest brother. It made my middle brother very sad, but he knew in his heart it was for the best. That was the hardest part. We were as close as brothers can be. There were things I wanted to do and places to see. It was not going to happen if I remained on the ranch. My brother Joe did not understand. My father did not really seem to understand either, even though he had followed his dream to move to the western part of the United States from Boston -” Adam got a painful, far away look in his eyes and averted his gaze. “And I helped him build that dream into reality.”

Adrielle sensed the pain of his memories. “I can tell that it was a difficult decision for you, but do you not miss your family?”

“Yes, there were many wonderful times, but I cannot go back to the way things were when I left. It just would not work.”

“And so you came to France to live out some of your dreams. Yes?”

“Yes. And then I met you.”

Adrielle shrugged and shook her head not knowing exactly how to respond. “But even if I wanted to leave, which I am not sure that I do – well – it would be impossible.”

“It would be possible with me.”

Then it was her time to look away. “I just do not know, Adam. This is the only life I have ever known.”

He could see that his words were disturbing her and reached out to gently stroke her arms. “Please, it was not my intention to upset you. I am not going to push you. Lord knows it took me years to make my decision. But I can stay in France – I would like to stay in France – that is, if you want me to.” Adam cocked his head to the side. His expression was filled with hope as he searched Adrielle’s eyes and waited for her reply.

“Yes”, she whispered.

“Yes?”

“Yes.”

Reference:

*** Foudre means “lightning”, and a coup de foudre is a lightning bolt. “Avoir un coup de foudre pour quelqu’un” means to “have a lightning bolt for someone”. It means that you’ve fallen in love with someone at first sight, or fallen head-over-heels in love with them.

Comments:

As in most societies of the 19th century, French women held things together and had very few options and almost no power unless they were part of the upper class. My goal here was to try to make that clear with Adrielle but also explain that there was common ground with Adam and that he was offering her the possibility of a life that would otherwise have been unattainable.

 

HAGGLING

As Adam bid Adrielle goodbye on Tuesday, he did so with renewed hope for the possibility of having a future together. He hired a cab and made his way to the shipping company where he had worked for several months to explain that he would be staying in France. However, several weeks had passed since he left his job, and his position had been filled. His former supervisor thought well of Adam, though, and gave him the name of a freight company and a contact.

On Wednesday, Adam dressed in his business attire and went to check about the job opportunity. He came away that morning with a broad smile and start date of the following Monday. Later that afternoon, he surprised Celeste at Eglise Notre-Dame des Champs. Adrielle had told him that messages he had for her were safely kept in confidence with Celeste. He asked Celeste to pass along to her sister that he would see her on Thursday with good news. Adam got the feeling that Celeste enjoyed this bit of intrigue, but was also a little envious.

Late the following afternoon, Adam watched from a distance as the Perrot wagon rolled onto the ferry. Then he boarded as a foot passenger and waited for the boat to launch. Once it was moving he approached the wagon knowing that he had only about fifteen minutes of time to execute his plan.

“Bonjour Monsieur Perrot. Mademoiselle.” Adam nodded to both when their heads suddenly jerked his way.

He was unfazed by the shock on their faces. Henri Perrot’s eyes narrowed in question.

“Monsieur Cartwright. I was not expecting to see you here. To what do we owe this – uh – pleasure?”

Adrielle bit her lip nervously wondering what Adam was doing. He tried to offer her a reassuring smile.

“If I could have a few moments of your time, sir. Would you mind stepping down so we can speak along the rail?”

Perrot gave Adam a skeptical look, but then handed the reins of the team to Adrielle and got down. Adam motioned for Perrot to thread his way through the other carts and horses over to the railing of the boat.

“So what is it that is so important that you would follow us onto the ferry?”

“Yes, sir, it is very important. I have come to tell you that I am staying in France and that I have taken a job with a freight company.”

“Well then, good luck to you.” Perrot turned to go back to his wagon.

“Monsieur Perrot, please, wait!”

Perturbed, Perrot swung back around. “What?”

“I would like to court Adrielle.”

“Court Adrielle? Do I look like Henri d’ Artois?” Perrot scoffed.

“Monsieur Perrot, I am asking for Adrielle’s hand in marriage and I am willing to wait as long as necessary.”

Perrot scowled. “I need to get back to my wagon. I do not have time for this nonsense!”

Adam pulled a paper from his jacket and held it out to Henri Perrot. “One more moment. Please? Here is a letter verifying who I will be working for. Adrielle says that you are a man of your word. I am giving you my word that my intentions are honorable.”

“Well, Monsieur Cartwright, Adrielle is correct.” He pushed back on the paper. “And I do not need proof of your job. It makes no difference. I believe you have met Adrien Fournier.” There was a hardness in Perrot’s face and a steely look in his eyes. “I have told him that he can marry Adrielle when the time is right. Good day to you.”

Adam’s right hand dropped to his side with the paper still clenched tightly in it. His jaw tightened as he watched Henri Perrot’s purposeful stride back to his wagon. Adam could just barely see Adrielle and her father conversing for a moment. She leaned back trying to find Adam on the crowded ferry. Even from a distance, Adam could see her sad expression and it cut like a knife into his heart.

Reference:

Henri d’Artois was born on 29 September 1820, in the Pavillon de Marsan, a portion of the Tuileries Palace that still survives in the compound of the Louvre Palace in Paris. Henri and his family left France and went into exile on 16 August 1830. While some French monarchists recognized him as the sovereign of France, others disputed the validity of the abdications of his grandfather and of his uncle.

 

INSECURITY

The image of Adrielle in the Perrot wagon rolling away through Charenton-le-Pont played over and over in his mind as he stood by the railing on the ferry. He refused to believe that this was the end, and yet, he chided himself for misreading Henri Perrot’s interest in him as a sort of permission to pursue a relationship with Adrielle. Adam wondered if his asking for her hand would now shorten the timeline with Adrien. There were a multitude of questions swirling in Adam’s brain as the ferry made its way back across the Seine.

Friday morning after a mostly sleepless night, Adam went to La Closerie Des Lilas to get his breakfast. He sat nursing his coffee, in essence torturing himself even being there, this place where it had all begun. He had upended his life pursuing Adrielle and now it appeared that it had all been for naught. He was committed to starting his new job on Monday. Part of him was craving the structure that a steady job would provide, however, he doubted there would be time for a rendezvous with Adrielle any time soon, something he craved even more. His only hope for any contact at the moment was speaking with Celeste. He was thankful that she had been willing thus far to serve as his liaison and hoped she would continue to do so.

Adam left the cafe mid morning and found Celeste at Saint-Nicolas du Chardonnet. She was busy with customers when he arrived. While he waited, he watched her movements about the cart and the way she engaged her customers. The similarity between the sisters was remarkable and it was no surprise that he had mistaken Celeste for Adrielle on their first meeting. Only a few years younger than Adrielle, Adam wondered if there was also a young man biding his time for Celeste. When the last of the current stream of customers left, Adam approached the flower cart doing his best to be cheerful.

“Bonjour, Mademoiselle Perrot!”

“Monsieur Cartwright – Bonjour.”

Adam knew that her hesitancy was justified. “You were probably wondering if you would see me again, yes?”

Celeste shrugged. “For Adrielle’s sake, I hoped so, but I am not sure that I understand why.”

“What did Adrielle tell you of yesterday’s events? That is, if you are able to share that with me.”

“I see no reason not to, but I am not sure it will be of help to you.”

“Please. I want to know.”

“My sister was upset when she got home, but I did not hear the full story about what happened until bedtime when we were alone. She said that you have taken a job and are staying in France and that you asked to court her, but Papa has promised her to Adrien.

“That pretty much sums it up. I had so hoped that she would be sharing good news, but sadly you father has other plans for Adrielle.”

Celeste stared at Adam in essence questioning the point of their conversation.

“I get the idea that you think I should just give up and go away.”

“Well?”

“I am not a man who gives up easily when I know I am right about something or in this case someone. I believe Adrielle and I are supposed to be together and I fully intend to make that happen.”

Celeste’s eyes went wide and she shook her head back and forth, but remained silent.

“You are not saying anything. You do not think what I am saying is possible?”

“Many things are possible Monsieur Cartwright, but some things are not likely to happen, and I am afraid you marrying my sister is one of them.”

“I hope and pray that you are wrong, Celeste, and that some day soon I will be calling you sister.”

The young woman chortled. “I would not share this with Papa, but I do hope you are right, Monsieur Cartwright.”

“Then you had better start calling me Adam for good measure, yes?”

She laughed again. “Yes – Adam.”

“So, I am going to ask you to help keep Adrielle’s hope alive. I have not yet figured things out, but I will. Just know that if someone comes to you or Adrielle with messages from me, please accept it as truth. It pains me that I will no longer be able to come see her whenever I want, but I will find a way to remain in contact with Adrielle directly or through you. Will you please help me do this?”

Celeste could not help but be bolstered by Adam’s enthusiasm. “Certainly. I will do all that I am able for my sister.”

Adam sighed heavily with relief. “Thank you so much!” He pulled an envelope from his coat pocket. “Would you be so kind and deliver this letter to your dear sister?”

Celeste reached out and took the envelope. “Yes, of course.”

“Wonderful. Now if you can give me your schedule as far into the future as you know it. I cannot promise that you will hear from every day, but I will try. And please encourage Adrielle to write back. Nothing would please me more.”

She gave him a warm smile. “I will give her your message.”

“Thank you, Celeste.” Adam pulled a pencil and paper from his pocket. “All right, I am ready.”

Celeste gave him the locations where the flower cart would be for the next week. So grateful for her help, Adam kissed her cheek before bidding her good day. Her beaming smile faded as she watched him walk away. Still holding Adam’s letter in her hand, she suddenly brought it up and pressed to her bosom.

“Bonne chance, Adam.” She whispered.

Reference:

Saint-Nicolas du Chardonnet is a Roman Catholic church in the centre of Paris, France. A chapel was first built in the 13th century, in a field planted with chardons (thistles), hence the name. It was later replaced with a church. The clock tower is part of an earlier structure, built sometime prior to 1600. The church was reconstructed between 1656 and 1763. In 1612, Adrien Bourdoise founded a seminary at Saint-Nicolas.

 

JULES

Adam found himself struggling with all of the unknowns after meeting with Celeste. He was grateful for her willingness to help and that she was Adrielle’s confidante. Celeste seemed more forthright and adventurous. There was no doubt in his mind that in a different set of circumstances, Celeste would have readily agreed to run off with him. But it was not Celeste who had captured his heart. More than ever, he worried that Henri Perrot would finally give his blessing to Adrielle and Adrien’s marriage. And even if Perrot allowed the status quo to continue, Adam wondered if Adrielle would lose hope.

When he got back to his room, Adam opened the bottle of wine he had picked up and layed out some bread and cheese on his small table. He sipped the wine and allowed the warmth of it soothe his troubled mind and heart. Two things immediately came to the forefront as he pondered what to do. He must find a way to connect with Adrielle. He had a courier at his despatch at his previous job. He hoped that would also be the case at this one as well. If not, he knew that he must hire one and pay for it out of his own pocket, if necessary. The other was that he needed to blend in more with the culture; so he decided to let his hair and beard grow. He would keep it neat for his job, but it gave him options if he needed to become a peasant in order to meet Adrielle surreptitiously. With so much out of his control at the moment, Adam retrieved some paper, his quill pen, and ink and began pouring out his heart.

My Dearest Adrielle,

How I long to see you. Since that first day at La Closerie Des Lilas, you have stolen my heart forever. You were and are a vision of beauty. Even now I can see your lovely hair burnished by the sun. You cannot imagine the joy it brings me to watch the gentle way you tend your flowers and put together lovely bouquets. The gentleness of your soul is on full display….

He went on for hours writing his thoughts and plans, wondering when Adrielle would read any of them.

The weekend passed slowly as Adam mentally tried to prepare himself for going back to work. His previous job had him scheduling the off-loading of goods from ships. Now he would be on the other end coordinating and scheduling for an overland freight company. The volume of goods needed in Paris alone was astounding. The company he would be working for was only recently established and trying to find its niche in the market. Adam came with an excellent recommendation from his previous employer. This also created an expectation for his performance. He knew it would require intense focus, something he was having great difficulty in doing except when it came to Adrielle.

Monday morning Adam arrived at Durand Freight. The bulk of the morning was spent meeting with the head of the company, Pierre Durand and Adam’s immediate supervisor, Maxou Roche. After lunch he was shown to his office where he met with the foreman of the teamsters. Following that meeting, Adam began sorting out schedules and the volume of goods he was dealing with. Late in the afternoon there was a knock at his door. A lanky young man with short cropped hair who looked to be about twenty entered cautiously upon hearing Adam’s invitation.

“Excuse me, Monsieur Cartwright?” The man swiped his cap from his head.

“Yes? How may I help you?”

“I am Jules. The courier. Monsieur Durand sent me to introduce myself.”

“Jules?”

The man gave Adam a shy smile. “My apologies, monsieur. Jules Arnaud.”

“No apology necessary, Jules. I just make a point of knowing everyone’s name.” Adam stood and held out his right hand. “Pleased to meet you.”

Understanding his station, Jules awkwardly returned the gesture. Adam took note of Jules’ youthful attempt at growing facial hair and thought to himself that the boy had no idea just how happy he was to see him, but kept his expression business-like.

“So, your schedule?”

“Yes, I make a run around nine and try to return about one to collect papers again and leave around two. It just depends how far I must ride whether I can do two runs in a day.”

“I understand. You must be a good horseman to ride in all the traffic every day.”

“Horseman? No, monsieur. I ride a velocipede.”

“Really? One of those boneshakers?”

Jules laughed. “Yes, but you get used to it. Still better than a horse. No food or water necessary.”

Adam chuckled. “Except for the rider. Looks like a lot of work to me. I think I will stick with a horse.”

Jules nodded in deference. “Each to his own liking, I guess. I will stop by tomorrow morning to see if you have any deliveries, yes?”

“Thank you, Jules. Good day.”

“And to you, monsieur.”

Once the door was closed, Adam began drumming his fingers on his desk. Jules seemed like an agreeable young man. However, asking him to run errands, questionable ones at that, did not seem like the right way to start off their relationship knowing the level of friendship and trust that was going to be required. Adam suddenly became aware of his mindless drumming and then smacked his desk with both hands.

“No time for this right now. You’ve got work to do!”

Adam worked late and then stopped at a restaurant for dinner. He was exhausted by the time he reached his room. Still, his mind was a jumble of freight schedules and schemes for connecting Jules with Adrielle and Celeste. Though he detested outright lying, he finally settled on something he thought might work and decided to give it a try the next day. Only then was he able to sleep.

The following morning when Jules stopped by Adam’s office to see if he had any papers to be delivered.

“Bonjour, Monsieur Cartwright. Do you have anything for me this morning?” Jules held a backpack in his hands.

“Ah. Bonjour Jules. Yes, I have two items. Here is the first one. The name and address are written on the envelope. The other is more of a request. It’s only to be done when your other work is finished or it happens to be right on your way.”

Jules cocked a brow noting that it was an unusual request.

“Yes, well, you see, my maid has been after me to get a letter she has written to a family member who sells flowers in this part of the city. Someone in the larger family has been ill and she has been hoping to find out more about how they are doing.”

Again Jules gave Adam an odd look.

“Yes I know. I am happy to pay you out of my own money to make the delivery. My maid is a nice lady, and she said that the flowers are lovely if you happen to need some for a special young lady.” Adam pulled an inquisitive face.

Jules laughed. “Monsieur, I will be happy to deliver the letter if there is time and it is not too far out of my way.”

“Thank you, Jules. She said the flower cart would be near Saint Sulpice.”

Adam handed Jules the letter along with some money for his trouble.

Jules placed both envelopes into his backpack. “Au revoir.”

“Au revoir.”

After the courier left, Adam spoke to himself aloud. “Well that was a bit dicey. Not exactly your best work Cartwright, but at least there is hope that Adrielle will get your letter!”

Reference:

Velocipede: The precursor to today’s bicycles with minimal or no seat and metal wheels and wood rims.

 

KAISER WILHELM

Jules reported the next day that he had delivered the letter to a woman named Adrielle.

“A note for your maid, monsieur.”

Adam suppressed the smile that was daring to cover his face. He was thrilled to get a note from Adrielle and could not wait to read it. However, he kept a controlled demeanor.

“Thank you, Jules. I am certain she will be thrilled to hear from her family.”

So over the next few weeks, Jules served as Adam’s personal courier. Some days it was Adrielle and others it was Celeste that he encountered. However, one day when Jules delivered a letter to him Adam happened to notice a far away, dreamy look on the young man’s face.

“Did you have a good day, Jules? You seem particularly happy this afternoon.”

“Oh – uh – it is nothing, monsieur.”

“Really? You have the look.”

Jules flushed. “Look?”

“Of a man in love.”

Jules hesitated.

“You are done for the day, yes?”

“Yes, monsieur.”

“Then please, have a seat.” Adam motioned to the chair in front of his desk.

The young courier set his backpack down beside the chair and tentatively sat down.

“We are friends, yes? I mean, I consider you a friend. You have been doing me a great service. What is on your mind.”

“It is your maid’s niece, Celeste.”

“Ah – Is she pretty?”

“She – she – is beautiful – and funny, and she floats like an angel and…”

Jules’ words were suddenly coming forth with an enthusiasm that Adam had not seen before.

Adam sighed deeply. “Sounds like love to me.”

“Oui, monsieur. I have never felt this way about a girl before. Is this – normal?”

There was a rumble in Adam’s chest. “Oh yes, Jules. Quite normal.”

“But what shall I do? She lives on a farm outside the city. It is too far to see her often.”

Adam brought his hand up and stroked his beard. He had a dilemma. Should he come clean with Jules about Adrielle and if so what would a young buck like him think of him? Would Jules feel that Adam had taken advantage of him?

“Men in love find a way. In fact sometimes they do things that are a bit strange.”

“They do?”

“Yes. Well especially this man.”

“You, monsieur?”

“Yes, me. But I must have your word that you will keep my confidence and I will keep yours and will do what I can to help you. Do we have a deal?”

Adam held out his hand across the desk. Jules eyed Adam strangely, but realized that he had paid him more than fairly for the extra work required. Also, it was through those errands that he had met Celeste, and for that he was grateful.

Jules reached out and took Adam’s hand. “We have a deal, Monsieur Cartwright.

“Let us begin with you calling me Adam.”

“Alright, Monsieur Adam.”

“No, just Adam.”

Jules emitted a nervous laugh. “Adam.”

“Believe me I understand your predicament. First, you need to know that I have no maid.”

Jules’ eyes went wide. “No maid, monsieur – Adam.”

“That is correct. My goal in this charade was to remain in contact with Adrielle.”

“You – are – related to Adrielle and Celeste?”

Adam laughed outright. “No, I am afraid not. But – I would like to be.” It took a moment for Adam’s words to sink in. “So you see, Jules, we have the same problem; you with Celeste and me with Adrielle.”

“What? But how? When? I do not understand. You?”

“Yes, me. It is a bit of a long story that I am not sure we have the time for right now, but rest assured, I am on your side and will do what I can for you and Celeste. That is, if you want my help.”

The young man sat quietly for a moment staring at his hands. Adam worried that he had shocked Jules into silence.

Finally the young man looked Adam squarely in the face. “But what will we do? How can this possibly work?”

“I am not entirely sure. I am working on that part. But your help has been immensely important. And I will need you to continue delivering correspondence for me. The benefit to you is that you will get to visit Celeste. So we will be partners, yes?”

Jules shrugged. “Yes, partners, but I think I should still call you Monsieur Cartwright here, just in case someone hears us.”

“Probably a good idea.” Adam sighed with relief. “It is good to get this out. I did not like the game.”

“As you said, men in love do strange things, yes?”

“Definitely!”

Adam rose and came around his desk and smacked Jules on the shoulder before bidding him good day. Then he dropped back into the chair at his desk wondering what he had just done. Though he felt Jules was trustworthy with a calm and thoughtful temperament, Adam wondered if coming clean about Adrielle was a step too far. Time would tell.

The following day, Jules returned from his afternoon run with a letter. Adam had been worried how the events of the previous day would affect their next encounter. The look on Jules face when he entered the office did not help his concerns.

“Bonjour, Monsieur Cartwright.” Jules gave his regular formal greeting as he entered Adam’s office.

“Have you heard what everyone’s talking about?” The young courier dropped his backpack and handed Adam the letter.

“No. I have been very busy today. I did not even take time to go out for lunch. Please fill me in.”

“It is Wilhelm, the KIng of Prussia. An agreement was signed to confederate many of the German states.”

“I see. That does sound concerning.”

“Some say it is just a matter of time until the southern states will join and then -”

“Yes?”

“Many believe that he will become Kaiser Wilhelm, emperor of Germany.” Jules shuddered. “So much power right next door to France.”

Adam flexed his jaw and then stroked his lengthening beard while pondering what the young man had shared. The effects of the Civil War in America had been devastating, but aggression from a hostile power the magnitude that Jules spoke of was unfathomable.

“Please keep me abreast of any news you hear as I am often too busy to catch the gossip.”

“Believe me, Adam, I will. Do you need anything else from me today?”

“No, thank you. I would imagine I may know more after I read this.” Adam held up the letter and smiled. How is Celeste?”

Smile washed briefly over Jules concerned countenance. “Good, but this situation with Germany has me very worried. Just last year there was war between Prussia and Austria. And I am of age now and could get a letter any day pulling me into the army. My family is not rich enough to buy another poor soul to serve in my place.”

“I see. War is a terrible thing and I hope you do not get called to serve in the army, my friend.”

“Thank you, Adam. I love my country, but have never been outside of Paris. I have heard dreadful stories from older men about war, and I would consider leaving if necessary.”

Adam nodded in understanding. “Let us hope it does not come to that. We have enough on our plates with these Perrot ladies, yes?”

Adam’s attempt at lightening the situation did bring a smile from Jules.

“Yes, you are correct. I must go. See you tomorrow.”

“Yes, thank you, Jules. I am forever in your debt. Au revoir.”

“Think nothing of it. Au revoir.”

Despite the disturbing news, Adam quickly opened the envelope and pulled out the letter. Several peony petals fluttered out as he opened up the letter, the telltale sign that it was from Adrielle and not just an informational note from Celeste about their schedule. He picked up a few of the velvety petals, closed his eyes and inhaled. The vision of Adrielle standing by her cart immediately appeared in his mind.

My Dear Adam,

I miss you so much. I am so looking forward to the day you will be able to get away from your work long enough to come see me. Even if only for a few minutes. You are going to look like a true Frenchman with your beard and long hair…

Adam chuckled softly thinking about how different he would look when Adrielle next saw him. But then, he thought about the traces of silver beginning to show is his beard. He worried that she would think of him too close to her father’s age to be desirable. He grew even more solemn at her mention of Adrien. She wrote of working hard to avoid him, but that sometimes it was not possible.

He ran his finger over her signature when he finished reading. Through their correspondence, Adam felt there was genuine love growing between them. He knew that they needed more time, but time was not their friend, not with Adrien still in the picture. Adam needed a bargaining tool. He settled on some prime livestock and planned to look into it as soon as possible. Adam then scooped up the peony petals onto the letter and placed it back into the envelope. As much as he wanted to bolt and try to catch Adrielle before she left the city, it was not possible and he still had a lot of work to do.

“I will come soon, my dear Adrielle. Soon.”

Reference:

Wilhelm I: On 2 January 1861, William (Wilhelm the German form) ascended the throne as William I of Prussia following the death of his father, Frederick William IV. In 1867, the North German Confederation was created as a federation (federally organised state) of the North German and Central German states under the permanent presidency of Prussia. William assumed the Bundespräsidium, the presidium of the Confederation; the post was a hereditary office of the Prussian crown.

Notes:

Conscription into the French army at this time was done by lot. The middle and upper class families often paid for a member of the lower class to serve for them.

 

LOTTERY OF LOVE

The following day while having lunch at a nearby cafe, Adam met with his supervisor, Maxou Roche. They discussed work issues for a time, and then Adam asked Maxou for some advice.

“I have an opportunity to invest in a farm not far outside the city. I was wondering if you could recommend a source of good breeding stock for dairy cattle.”

Maxou’s eyes widened. “Really? You mentioned that you grew up on a cattle ranch in America, but that is not the same as a farm, yes?”

“You are correct. They are different.”

“So how did you find out about this farm while working in Paris?”

Adam conjured up a half truth to get by.

“Well, I happened to help a man who was having a problem loading a cart onto a wagon. Just part of my upbringing, I guess, when I see someone struggling like that. Anyway, as it turned out he was a farmer, and he invited me to his place for Sunday dinner as thanks for helping him. He could use a little help with his livestock and we worked out a possible deal.”

“Interesting. I do not know anything about raising animals -” Roche paused and took a piece of cheese from the plate on the table. “but I do know that the best Comte comes from the milk of Normande cows. You could go to a cheesery and ask who supplies their cheese.”

Adam followed Roche’s lead and sampled another piece of the Comte. “Excellent suggestion.” He took a sip of wine after his bite of cheese and then went on. “I am also interested in a new breed of pig. I know from my previous job that Berkshire pigs are being shipped in from England. I have heard that they are being crossed with one of the French breeds to produce better meat. But that is all I know on the subject.”

Roche lifted his wine glass to Adam. “You already know more on that subject than I do, but it seems like a lot of bother just for a farmer.”

Adam shrugged. “Yes, possibly, but sometimes a little bother has big benefits in the end. ***Qui vivra verra.*** Thank you for your help.”

Over the next few days and with Jules assistance, Adam was able to locate suppliers for the livestock he wanted. However, his plan to deliver the animals to Adrien’s farm was far from clear. Adam only had a vague idea where it might be. He needed to speak with Adrielle and made plans via Jules to meet her at the small village near her farm on the Saturday. More than to work out the logistics of his plan, his heart yearned for her. He prayed that nothing would interfere with their meeting.

Having purchased a broad hat, long double-breasted vest, and tall, cuffed boots, Adam felt less conspicuous for his meeting with Adrielle. He arrived at Joinville le Pont mid morning driving a horse and small cart he had rented as part of his disguise. Adam was vigilant as he crossed over the bridge into the quaint village. There were a number of people moving about, but none appeared to be Adrielle.

Adam tied off his horse and walked toward the church. His heart skipped when he saw a woman wearing a bright orange scarf and carrying a basket. He decided to do a little test to see how well his disguise was working and deliberately crossed her path and nodded. Adam got several feet beyond when he heard Adrielle call out.

“Bonjour monsieur. Would you happen to be looking for a member of the Perrot family?”

Adam whirled around and grinned. “Bonjour mademoiselle. Indeed I am!”

He back-tracked, kept an appropriate distance though what he wanted was to swoop her up in his arms.

Adrielle kept her voice low. “Adam! Were you trying to trick me?”

“I wanted to know if you still recognized me with a beard and longer hair. What do you think.”

Adrielle giggled. “I think you look like a farmer and am thankful that you do not smell like one.”

“I too am thankful for that since there have been many times in my life when you would not have wanted to be this close to me.”

“Shhh. I must go about my business or people will get suspicious. Meet me not far outside the village on the road to farm. I will be there in about thirty minutes.”

“See you soon.”

And with that, they parted company. Adrielle went toward the village bakery and Adam back to his cart. A rider dressed in a French military uniform rode past him on a smart looking horse. Adam watched the soldier from afar as he led his horse to a community watering trough. The rider stopped and dismounted at the church where he pulled a paper from a leather valise that was attached to his saddle. The soldier forced the paper onto the nails on the community board by the doors of the church. After making sure that the paper was secure, the soldier mounted up and rode on through the village.

Though he would have liked to read the posting, Adam knew he must not risk it as an outsider. Instead he followed Adrielle’s instructions and drove his cart toward her farm. However, by the time she came out of the bakery, there were villagers gathered at the church gossiping to one another. Adrielle went over to see for herself. It was an official paper from the French army announcing that fifty single men, age twenty and older, from the Canton of Charenton-le-Pont

were to be chosen by lot and conscripted into service, ten from the village of Joinville-le-Pont and surrounding area. Adrielle understood that the leaders of the village would soon meet, put the names of the adult males that met the criteria in a basket and choose ten names. Those men were to report for duty in two weeks in Charenton-le-Pont. She also knew that Adrien Fournier’s name would be among them unless he was able to press her father into a marriage ceremony in the next few days. Fearing what she knew would be coming, Adrielle hurried off to find Adam.

By the time Adam saw her coming toward him in the awkward jog her sabots allowed, he could tell she was exhausted.

“Adrielle!” He shouted and ran to her.

She fell into his open arms, her chest heaving.

“What happened? What is wrong?”

Adam helped her to the cart so she could sit down. He placed her basket in the back and helped her up. He stood beside the cart carefully stroking back the strands of hair that had worked loose from her scarf with exertion.

“When you get your breath, you can tell me.”

Adam kissed her forehead and continued to stroke her cheek, thumbing away the tears that were now coming. She leaned into him, allowing his arms to encircle her still heaving body.

“You are safe.” He whispered with his mouth pressed to her ear. “I will take care of you – no matter what has happened.”

When her breathing began to slow, he released his hold to look into her eyes. The moments slipped by, but Adrielle still did not speak. The pull between them grew. Adam parted his lips and gently took her bottom lip. When Adrielle did not resist, he pulled her close and kissed her with passion. She responded by grabbing his beard and pressing her lips to his. He lifted her off the seat of the cart and pressed her body to his as they continued kissing. Adam fought the urge to carry her off into the brush and take her completely, especially when Adrielle seemed to be inviting it.

“Adrielle -”

Her kisses stifled his words.

“Adrielle – my love -”

She continued to shower him with kisses.

Adam pushed back and pressed a finger to her advancing lips. “Please, Adrielle.”

Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment and her head dropped.

Adam tenderly lifted her chin. “Believe me when I say that I do not want to stop – ”

Adrielle shook her head. “I am so sorry Adam. I do not know what came over me.”

There was a rumble in his chest. “Knowing that you do not want me to stop makes me happier that you could ever know.” He brushed his lips over hers. “But the time must be right and the place must be right.”

Adrielle nodded and heaved a great sigh. “But there is likely to be trouble with Adrien. There was a notice that the army is calling up more men. Adrien is of age and single. His name will be in the lottery.”

“That explains the soldier in the village.”

“Yes, and I am afraid that he will go to Papa and demand that we get married immediately.”

Adam pursed his lips. “So much for my plan to pay him off in livestock.”

“What?”

“I was going to tell you today that I was planning to give Adrien some prime livestock in exchange for releasing you from your father’s agreement.”

Adrielle shrugged. “He might have taken your gift and still demanded to marry me. It matters little. There is no doubt what he will do. I do not wish Adrien ill, but I do not love him, and do not want to marry him!”

Adrielle threw herself into Adam’s arms and buried her face in his chest. He wrapped her up momentarily before pushing her back to look into her deep blue eyes.

“Then there is only one solution.”

“What is that?”

“Come with me to Charenton-le-Pont. We will find a priest.”

“I – I – what will Papa say? What will Adrien do? And my sisters and brothers?”

“I do not know, but if we are legally married there really is not much they can do.”

“Adam, I do not want to hurt my family.”

“If you stay and are forced to marry Adrien, then you will be the one to get hurt. I do not want to see you hurt because I love you, Adrielle.”

She gazed up into his hazel eyes that were filled with hope and reassurance.

Adam held out his hands to her. “I want you to be my wife, to love and cherish you all of our days. Come with me?”

References:

Normande is a breed of dairy cattle from the Normandy region of north-west France. It is raised principally for its milk, which is high in fat and suitable for making butter and cheese, but also for its meat, which is marbled and good-flavoured.

Bayeux pigs are descended from a cross beginning in the mid 19th century between Normand and Berkshire (English black pig). This rustic pig adapts very well to the outdoors and the quality of its marbled meat, perfectly adapted to the preparation of cooked cold meats, is very much sought after.

***Qui vivra verra.”He/she who lives, shall see.” This phrase is usually used when an outcome is unpredictable or uncertain, like in the English “the future will tell.”

A sabot is a clog from France or surrounding countries such as The Netherlands, Belgium or Italy. Sabots are either whole feet clogs or a heavy leather shoe with a wooden sole

 

MARRIAGE?

The feeling of Adrielle nestled into his side with her fingers resting in the dark hair on his chest gave Adam the sense of calm and comfort that he had been yearning for. The past twelve hours seemed like a glorious dream. They had made love until exhausted, each experience seemingly more satisfying than the last. He reached out and ran his fingers through her hair, the luminous tresses that had first caught his eye at La Closerie Des Lilas. Adrielle stirred, a faint smile played at her lips that were slightly swollen from their hours of passionate love-making.

Despite feeling a great sense of obligation to her family, Adrielle had placed her hands in Adam’s on the road between Joinville-le-Pont and her farm. She gave in to what she truly wanted which was to be his wife. She agreed to go with him to Charenton-le-Pont to get married, however, she stopped at the bakery before leaving her little village. Certain that someone would come looking for her when she did not return home by early afternoon, Adrielle wrote out a message for her family saying only that she would return on Sunday. Once in Charenton-le-Pont, Adam purchased a new dress and shoes for her and a suit for himself before they went to the nearest church. They were not the first couple to make such a request of the priest. The woman who was cleaning the church and the parish gardener served as witnesses to their nuptials. The priest blessed their union and sent them on their way to enjoy a sumptuous meal before securing a room at the best hotel in the sprawling village.

Shy at first about approaching the marriage bed, Adrielle relaxed when she found her husband to be a patient and gentle lover. His tender and yet precise encouragement unleashed her passions and he eagerly responded with vigor. Now as they lay together, Adam knew it would take very little to rekindle their passion. The sun’s rays were beginning to peek in at the sides of the curtains. Their intimate time for now would soon come to an end. He leaned in and kissed her rosy lips and then whispered so near they were almost touching.

“Bonjour, Madame Cartwright.”

Adrielle lifted her arm and stretched revealing her soft, supple fullness. “Bonjour, Monsieur Cartwright.”

Adam found himself unable to resist the lovely sight. His hand drifted upward to caress her, and his lips soon followed. Her sighs of delight were only the beginning of their final love-making before they washed and dressed for what they both knew would be an emotionally intense day.

After eating their breakfast, Adam exchanged the cart for a more comfortable rig. They retraced the previous day’s journey arriving at the Perrot farm in the early afternoon dressed in their wedding clothes. Lucas spotted them and ran into the house. Soon, Celeste, Mattieu, and Chloe’ joined him by the gate. Adam brought the horse to a stop and reached over to grasp the hand of his nervous wife. Shocked into silence, Adrielle’s siblings stood open-mouthed at the sight before them. Adam helped Adrielle down and greeted the family. It was young Chloe’ that finally ran and wrapped her arms around her sister. The others quickly followed. The look on Celeste’s face told Adrielle that she had correctly assessed the situation.

“Where have you been? We were so worried!” Chloe looked up at her sister with tearful eyes.

Celeste placed a hand on Chloe’s shoulder. “I believe our sister has an announcement to make, yes, Adrielle?”

Adrielle drew a deep breath. “Yes, Monsieur Cartwright -” she paused and glanced up at her husband. “Adam and I were married yesterday.”

“Married?” Her three youngest siblings echoed.

Adam took Adrielle’s hand. “I know this is a big surprise, but I love your sister very much and promise to take very good care of her.”

Celeste’s expression softened with Adam’s declaration. She did love her sister and wanted her to be happy. She threw her arms around Adrielle and the two shed happy tears for a time. After releasing her sister, Celeste embraced Adam and kissed his cheek.

“Welcome to the family – Adam.”

“Thank you, Celeste.”

Chloe’ did not wait to be asked and hugged Adam’s waist. He responded with a kiss on the top of her head.

Mattieu and Lucas were more reserved and just nodded to the couple.

Adrielle gave Celeste an apprehensive look. “Papa?”

Celeste took a deep breath. “On the back porch.”

Adam pulled Adrielle close to his side and then motioned. “Ready?”

 

NAGGING FEARS

After an amicable meeting with her siblings, Adrielle and Adam proceeded toward the Perrot house, bracing themselves for the conversation with her father.

“Wait.” Celeste called out.

The couple swung around to face her.

“You should know that Adrien stopped Papa in the village after church. We were sent home; so I do not know what was said. But I just thought you should know.”

Adrielle nodded.

“Merci, Celeste.” Adam responded.

He wrapped an arm around Adrielle and pulled her close. Celeste’s words meant that they were likely to have the battle with Adrielle’s father they had hoped to avoid. Adam took his wife’s hand and approached the door. They walked through the house and out onto the back porch where they found Henri Perrot in his rocker smoking his pipe. He shot a glance at his daughter and Adam, but said nothing.

Forcing a smile, Adam offered a greeting. “Good afternoon, Monsieur Perrot.”

“I find little good about this day, Cartwright.” Perrot kept his eyes on the landscape and dropped the normal pleasantries.”

“Papa, please.” Tears were already running down Adrielle’s cheeks.

Perrot’s grim expression caused Adrielle to move even closer to Adam. Her father stood and firmly knocked the tobacco out of his pipe. Perrot was not a large man, but still imposing in his angered state.

“Your tears mean little, daughter. You have played me for a fool and made me into a liar. I am not deaf or blind! It is obvious what you have done. And now what? You will just up and leave us without warning or more importantly without my consent?”

Perrot’s glare shifted to Adam. “And you – you rich, fancy talking American. You come here and plow up our family like it is your privilege. Luring my daughter away, telling her God only knows what? You have no sense of our customs and way of life. How dare you!”

Though stoic on the outside, Adam knew that everything Perrot had said, from a peasant farmer’s perspective, was valid. He quickly mulled over how to respond.

“Monsieur, I can understand how this looks to you. Our decision to marry was mutual and I believe out of love.”

Perrot made a sound of disgust and turned away.

“You should know that our marriage is legal and proper. I have the certificate.” Adam patted his coat pocket. “And as I told you several weeks ago, I am working in the city and plan to remain in France. I promise you that I will take good care of your daughter.”

Henri Perrot smacked the porch post in frustration.

Adam went on. “We have also discussed -”

“You have discussed!” Perrot interjected.

Adam kept his tone even and measured. “We have discussed the possibility of Adrielle continuing to help with the flower cart on the Tuesdays and Thursdays until fall, if you would like.”

“How kind of you to consider us in your plans!”

Perrot banged the post once more before turning to face Adam and Adrielle.

“My suggestion to you, daughter, would be to collect your things. And both of you better hope that you do not run into Adrien Fournier on your trip – trip – home!” Perrot threw his arms up dismissing them.

“I am sorry, Papa.” Adrielle was unable to look at her father.

“Sorry? Sorry for what? Marrying this man? A bit late for regrets, yes?”

Adrielle looked up into Adam’s questioning eyes and then bolstered herself to face her father.

“No, Papa. I am not sorry that I married Adam. I love him now and I am certain that my love for him will grow deeper and stronger with the years, just as Mama used to say.”

Adam’s expression softened with her declaration, but Henri Perrot’s eyes narrowed at the mention of his deceased wife’s words.

“I am just sorry that you cannot find it in your heart to be happy for me.” Adrielle leaned into her husband.

Perrot turned away. After a period of silence. Adam and Adrielle bid him farewell and went into the house. Celeste met them with a large sling bag.

“I heard what Papa said.” There were tears in Celeste’s eyes. “I thought it would be easier if I gathered your things.”

She handed the bag to Adam and hugged Adrielle fiercely.

“Where are the boys and Chloe’? I want to see them – I do not know when I will see them -” Adrielle broke down in sobs.

Adam gripped her shoulders from behind trying to comfort her.

Celeste tried to smile. “I sent them over to the field and told them to watch for you. They will come when they see you.”

“You are the best sister.” Adrielle choked out her words and hugged Celeste once more.

Celeste reduced her voice to a whisper wanting to be sure that her father did not overhear. “You may not think so when I show up on your doorstep because Adrien has tried to persuade Papa to marry me instead. I will run away.”

Adrielle’s hand came up to cover her mouth. So focused on her own concerns, she had not even thought of that possibility.

Adam gently gripped Celeste’s arm. “I pray that it does not happen. But you know that we would gladly take you in.”

“If it were not for Chloe’ -” Celeste hesitated not wanting to add to Adrielle’s pain.

“Jules?” Adam mouthed.

Celeste nodded.

Adam’s eyes crinkled with his knowing smile. “He is a good man.”

Celeste smiled through her tears. Adrielle pulled her sister close and whispered into her ear.

“I will pray for you and Jules.”

“Thank you. Will I see you tomorrow? Celeste added.

“Yes. I will come to Eglise Notre-Dame des Champs after I know Papa has dropped you off and gone on to work.”

Adam and Adrielle said their final goodbye to Celeste and went to their buggy. The other siblings came running as Celeste said they would. Mattieu and Lucas tried not to show their emotions, but swiped a few tears away. Chloe’ made no effort to stem her sobs making it all the more difficult for Adrielle to leave. Eventually, she was able to pull herself away, and the couple got on the road toward Paris.

Adam allowed his wife some quiet time after the emotionally taxing afternoon. Adrielle sat with her handkerchief crinkled up in her hands, however, the tears were still rolling freely down her cheeks. He reined the horse to a stop, and took the handkerchief and wiped away her tears.

“Better?”

Adrielle could only nod.

“I am so sorry it was such a difficult time for you. I do believe they will be just fine in time. I know it does not seem that way right now, but they will.”

“I hope and pray you are right, Adam.”

“They will. You will see and I will do everything in my power -”

Adam paused and brought a finger to his lips. His right hand retrieved his Derringer and his left hid it under Adrielle’s handkerchief on her lap.

Adam raised his voice, “I will do everything in my power to take care of you and your family.”

Adrielle cocked her head to the side in question, but then out of the corner of her eye, just over Adam’s shoulder, she saw the reason for his precaution.

Unable to help herself, Adrielle gasped. “Adam!”

 

OPPORTUNITY STRIKES

Just shortly into their trip back to Paris, Adam had stopped the horse to comfort his wife after an emotionally charged afternoon. Sensing movement in the brush behind him, he had slipped his Derringer under Adrielle’s handkerchief and encouraged her to remain quiet. However, the sight of Adrien holding a gun was more than she could withstand.

“Adam!”

Adam turned to see Adrien Fournier a few meters away and holding an old flintlock rifle in his hands.

Adam reached across his wife’s legs and pulled her behind him to shield her and to have access to his pistol as he cautiously got out of the rig.

“Stay right behind me.” Adam whispered to Adrielle. “I would appreciate it if you would put down your rifle. Do you really want to put Adrielle at risk with that Blunderbuss?”

The farmer glared at Adam. “I am giving the orders here! Not you, you filthy, thieving American dog! Move away from the buggy!”

“Adam! No!” Adrielle screamed.

“Please try to stay calm, Adrielle. I will handle this.” He reached back pretending to comfort her and palmed the Derringer.

“Away, I said!” Adrien shouted.

Adam pointed with his left hand moving a few paces away from the rig, all the while keeping his focus on Adrien. “Over here?”

Then Adrien made the error that Adam had hoped for by motioning with the rifle. Adam rushed the big farmer who then discharged his gun. Adrielle’s screams and the sting in his shoulder did not slow Adam from hitting Adrien’s legs, knocking him backwards and causing the peasant to lose his grip on the gun. Quickly tossing the rifle aside and scrambling to his feet, Adam now stood at close range with the Derringer pointed at Adrien’s head.

“Now, would you like to hold a civil conversation?” Adam hissed through gritted teeth.

Having once again underestimated his American adversary. Adrien laid on the ground staring up wide-eyed at Adam.

“Adam! You are hurt!” Adrielle cried as she got down out of the rig.

“Stay back, Adrielle! It is not safe until I have his word that this nonsense is over!” Adam pointed his pistol between Adrien’s eyes. “Your word?”

Adrien raised his hands above his chest and nodded.

Adam backed his way toward the buggy keeping his pistol trained on Adrien. “You stay where you are. We will talk from a distance.”

Adrielle immediately began dabbing at the blood on Adam’s jacket as he leaned against the rig.

“Fortunately it is just a crease. I will be fine.” Adam tried to make light of his wound and console his frantic wife.

Adrielle turned toward Adrien with fire in her eyes. “You! You beast!”

Adam whispered to her. “Please do not say something we may both regret.” Then he directed his words to Adrien. “Hopefully Monsieur Fournier has seen that a gun is not the solution to his problem.”

Adam’s words appeared to fall on deaf ears. Slowly. Adrien got to his feet and stood staring at Adrielle, dejected, with his hands limp at his sides.

“I would have been a good husband.” Adrien whispered hoarsely.

The big peasant then turned to go pick up his rifle and lumbered off into the brush.

Adam released a deep sigh and pulled Adrielle into his chest. His eyes naturally went to the spot where Adrien had wandered off. Adam’s head ticked to the side as he realized that Adrielle’s words seemed to have a greater effect on Adrien than anything he had done.

“Adam, what were you thinking? You could have been killed!” Adrielle’s chest heaved as she tried to hold herself together for his sake.

“Unfortunately, I have met many an Adrien in the past. He only had one shot to make count, but it would have been a little less nerve-wracking if I had my usual pistol.”

“That does not make me feel any better. We need to get you back to the house.”

Adam pulled a face. “Are you sure that is best? I do not think your father wants to see me right now, and besides, I need to be at work in the morning.”

“Well it would serve Papa right to be the one to have to deliver a message to your business that you were unable to be at work because of an injury that could have been avoided were it not for his stubborn pride!”

Adam’s eyes went wide at his wife’s sudden display of temper.

Adrielle’s expression and voice softened as she continued to inspect his injury. “Maybe this is an opportunity for Papa to see things differently and start again.”

“Maybe, but he may not take kindly to the idea that I humiliated Adrien, or at least I think we would need to be very careful how we explain what happened. I think we should just go back to the city and avoid another uncomfortable situation.”

Adrielle pulled at the opening in Adam’s coat and shirt. “This is more than just a scratch. The wound needs to be cleaned and bandaged so you do not get an infection.”

Adam heaved a sigh and gave her a weary smile acknowledging that his wife was correct in her assessment.

“And -“, she continued, “you are not going to want to ride all that way. It was going to be almost dark as it was. Now we will probably need to stop for you to rest.”

“All right. We will go back to the farm and handle tomorrow the best we can, yes?”

“Yes.” Adrielle leaned up and kissed his cheek. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For agreeing to go back. I would have been worried sick if we had gone on.”

Adam shrugged and tried to help her up into the buggy with his good arm, but instead Adrielle climbed in herself and took the reins.

“I assume that you do know how to drive.”

“Of course, you silly man. I was raised on a farm.”

Adrielle waited as Adam gingerly stepped up and got seated before slowly turning the horse around. Soon they were back at the Perrot’s home. Mattieu and Lucas came running when the buggy came to a stop. The boys gave Adrielle and Adam odd looks.

“One of you will go and get Papa.” Adrielle ordered without explanation.

The boys looked at each other and then Lucas took off. Mattieu was surveying the situation trying to determine what the problem might be. The couple got down and walked toward the house. There was a look of surprise on the boy’s face when he saw Adam’s coat.

“What happened to Monsieur Cartwright?” Mattieu asked.

“I will explain once Adam is more comfortable and Papa is here. Now get the door please.” Adrielle made it clear to her brother that she had the situation in hand.

MInutes later, Lucas rushed in the back door to announce that Henri Perrot would be coming shortly. Adam was sitting on a kitchen chair with his left arm out of his jacket and shirt. He was uncomfortably the center of attention for the entire family when his father-in-law arrived.

“What is this?”

Adrielle gave her father a hard look. “It was Adrien. He sneaked up on us. He had a gun and shot Adam.” Her voice grew louder with each statement.

“Adrielle. Please.” Adam pleaded for calm.

“You young ones have chores to do. Get going!” Perrot ordered.

Knowing better than to put up a fuss, Chloe and the boys scurried out the back door. Perrot looked at Celeste who was holding a bottle of liquor and a cloth wishing she would leave as well, but she ignored him and continued tending Adam.

Taking the bottle and cloth from her sister, Adrielle looked directly at her father. “I assume that you told him I was coming home today. Otherwise, why would he show up with a gun, Papa? Why?”

“Adrien could have been out hunting and just happened upon you.”

“Even so, it does not change the fact that he ordered Adam out of the buggy at gunpoint.”

“And what of Adrien?”

“Adam could have killed him, but he did not. No, instead -”

“Adrielle, please stop!.” Adam interrupted.

“No Adam. He needs to hear it all. Adrien slunk off like an embarrassed little boy when Adam got the better of him!”

Adam winced, not from the pain of Adrielle’s ministrations, but her words.

Perrot gave Adam a quizzical look wondering how the big, young farmer lost to an injured and much smaller man.

“We will need to spend the night, that is if you will allow it.”

Adrielle’s pointed comment shocked Henri Perrot from his muddled thoughts.

“Yes – uh – the boys can sleep in the hayloft. You can have their bed.” His response was flat with preoccupation.

The others looked at the elder Perrot questioning the ease at which he had accepted Adrielle’s request.

Perrot’s eyes drifted briefly from Adrielle to Adam, then he turned for the back door. He paused for a moment. “I hope you recover quickly from your – wound.”

“Monsieur Perrot. Please wait.” Adam called.

Perrot stood with his hand on the latch, but did not face Adam.

Adam went on. “Fournier is responsible for his own actions. I do not blame you for what happened.”

There was a slight nod from Henri Perrot before he left the house.

A collective sigh seemed to fill the room. Adrielle and Celeste exchanged uncertain glances. After she finished bandaging Adam’s arm, Adrielle showed him to the boys’ bed upstairs so he could lay down before supper. She reached out and pushed his dark hair off his forehead and tenderly kissed his lips.

“Please rest until it is time to eat.”

“I will try. What do you think is going through his head? You were kind of hard on him, yes?”

Though Perrot was not even in the house, he was on both of their minds.

“I suppose, but I could not help it. My guess is that he was already feeling a bit guilty before we left. You saw his eyes when I mentioned Mama.”

Adam nodded.

“Papa may seem like a hard man to you, but he loved her. He understands what it is to truly love someone. That is why these last few years have been so painful for him – and that is why he should understand how I feel about you.”

Adam reached up and took her hand and kissed her palm. “I love you, Adrielle.”

Her eyes closed as she took in the sensation of his kiss. “And I love you, Adam.”

 

PERSPECTIVE

Though it was not what Adam wanted, Adrielle and he had returned to the Perrot farm to seek care for his bullet wound. The confrontation with Henri Perrot that worried him turned out to be of little consequence due to Adrielle’s forthrightness. Now in the small, stuffy upstairs room, Adam laid on Lucas’ and Mattieu’s uncomfortable bed rehashing the events of the afternoon. He could not help but wonder what was going through Henri Perrot’s mind at the moment. When Adam did try to relax and close his eyes, his arm would throb causing his mind to enter the next spiral of thoughts. He rolled over onto his right side hoping that a change in position would lessen the pain and change his perspective.

The manner in which Adrien had departed from their tumultuous encounter earlier in the afternoon suggested that he was no longer an issue. Yet, Adam contemplated how Perrot would react the next time he saw the young farmer. It was not an encounter he wished on either man. Adam reached up and scratched his head in frustration.

Here you are worrying about Perrot and Fournier, when you’ve managed to add another scar to your collection so that you will never be able to forget Adrien Fournier! Well done, Cartwright!

Adam let out a deep growl when he flipped onto his back, jarring his injured arm.

And on top of it all, the big oaf is keeping you from having a splendid night with your wife! But she is mine – all mine – and she made that perfectly clear to you today!

Adam chuckled and grinned with satisfaction despite his aching arm. His brief revel in his good fortune was enough to alleviate some of his tension and allow him the comfort of a short nap. At supper time, Adrielle went up to check on him. Adam stirred when she sat down on the edge of the bed.

“Sorry to wake you, mon cher. The evening meal is ready.”

Adam stretched his right arm and brought her down so their lips were almost touching. “I am hungry for you, but sadly this is not the place.” He placed an inviting kiss on her lips.

His words and warm kiss made her body tingle with excitement. “But what of your arm?”

“My arm is not the problem.”

Adrielle giggled loudly causing him to place a finger over her lips.

She pulled back and whispered. “Then maybe we should trade places with the boys.” She dissolved into more giggles and had to cover her mouth.

“I am afraid we would scare the animals.” Adam’s brows went up and down and he coughed out a laugh making it even more difficult for Adrielle to calm down.

They were greeted at the dinner table with some strange looks from Adrielle’s younger siblings who had heard their laughter from downstairs. Celeste acted as if nothing was out of the ordinary except for a faint smirk that caught Adrielle’s attention.

Adrielle tried to create a diversion. “Where is Papa?”

“He said to go ahead and he will eat later.” Mattieu responded.

“I guess that means you get to say the prayer.” Adrielle’s eyes sparkled with mischief at her brother.

Mattieu squirmed with embarrassment. “Me. No. Let Lucas do it.”

Lucas shook his head. “Not me. Monsieur Cartwright can do it.”

In spite of his injury, Adam brought his hands up and folded them over his plate. “I would consider it a privilege to say grace.” He bowed his head and the others followed.

“Bless us oh Lord for these thy gifts that we are about to receive from thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen.”

Adrielle was beaming at her husband when all eyes were opened. “Thank you, Adam.”

Celeste was a bit envious of the look that her sister and Adam shared, but she hoped that she would soon share a similar happiness. The moment passed quickly. Without their father at the table, the boys felt much more free and dove into the food.

“Boys. Please slow down and show good manners.” Adrielle reprimanded.

Adam laughed and then apologized to Adrielle. “Sorry, but they are nothing like my two brothers. You had to fight for every bite in our household.”

“Are you Catholic, Monsieur Cartwright? Papa says that most Americans are Protest-” Mattieu struggled in part with the food in his mouth and the word.

“Mattieu! You are not an animal.” Adrielle scolded.

Adam replied after making certain that he had finished his bite of food. “Protestant. Yes, I am a Protestant, and please, we are brothers now, yes? Call me Adam.”

“But you say the Catholic prayer – uh – Adam”, Lucas added awkwardly.

“Yes, my step-mother was Catholic. She would say the prayer when my father was away on business.”

“So your step-mother is Catholic and your father is Protestant, just like you and Adrielle?” Mattieu queried.

Adam nodded. “That is correct.”

Mattieu gave him a puzzled look. “And it does not cause problems?”

“Things are different in the United States. There are many more Protestants than Catholics. I believe my step-mother missed practicing her faith the way she had been raised, but it really was not possible. There was no Catholic church in our area until 1860, long after she had -”

Adrielle gave him an understanding look. “Passed away. It is all right to say it.”

Everyone paused their eating for a moment. It was quiet for a time with only the sounds of utensils on the dishes. Adam touched Adrielle’s arm when he noticed that Chloe’ was sitting with her head down. Silent tears were dropping into the girl’s lap. He pushed back and went around the table to whisper in Chloe’s ear and give her shoulders a gentle squeeze. He took Chloe’s napkin and began wiping her tears away. At that moment, the back door opened, and Henri Perrot stepped in. Seeing Adam comforting his youngest daughter in this tender way was more than he could handle as the grimace on his face revealed. Perrot turned on his heel and left the house.

“Papa!” Adrielle called out.

When she looked at him wondering what to do, Adam sighed in frustration and tilted his head toward the door. “Maybe you should try talking to him.”

Adrielle got up quickly and headed out the back door. “Papa!”

 

QUANDARY

Adrielle’s quick departure from the dinner table left Adam to occupy the younger siblings with stories as Celeste cleared the table and began washing the dishes. The look on Adrielle’s face when she returned a while later left him wondering how things had gone with her father. In truth, he was tired and ready to call it a day. His arm was aching and he just wanted to be alone with his wife. Adrielle encouraged him to go upstairs while she helped Celeste finish with the dishes and prepare for the morning meal. Their father’s covered plate sitting on the stove served as a reminder of the tension in the household.

Later, Adrielle slipped into the space on the bed between Adam and the sloped ceiling and wall. He groaned when he lifted the quilt for her with his bad arm.

“Sorry to be so helpless. It will just take a few days until I am back to normal.”

“I am sorry that you were shot and now have to sleep in this uncomfortable bed.” She tilted her head up and kissed his lips.

Despite a bit of pain, Adam’s left hand gravitated to the round, fullness of her hip.

“It is not much of a way to spend our second night together”, he huffed.

Adrielle snuggled closer into his chest. “We will just have to make up for lost time once your arm is better and we are in our own bed.”

“Believe me, I have every intention of doing just that.” Adam placed a kiss on the top of her head and then sighed. “Your father?”

“I am afraid I have turned his world upside-down. I have not seen him this lost since Mama died.”

“What did he say?”

“Nothing. Not a word. I guess he will wait to come in once he sees that the house is dark.”

“Hmmm. I am sorry.”

“I hate to leave Celeste when he is in such a mood, but we must go back to the city.”

“Yes, we must. In a practical sense, the situation would have been the same if you had married Adrien. He has to know that.”

“Yes, I am sure he does, but I have wounded him, and somehow that makes it different.”

Adam could feel Adrielle’s tears on his chest.

He rested his chin on top of head. “It is an unfair burden to place on top of the many you have been carrying over the past years. Believe me I understand the weight of it. In one sense you carry it gladly out of love for your family, but there are times when you want to be free of it and live your own life.”

“Yes, that is true. And that’s why you left your family? To live your own life?”

“Yes, I could no longer bear the weight of it without taking it out on my family. It was like being slowly strangled.”

“My goodness, that sounds dreadful.”

“That is how I felt. Do not get me wrong, my father is a good man, but he has his ways. My brothers are good men, too, but we are all very different and have ways of getting under each other’s skin. It was as much my fault as theirs for allowing things to continue down a bad path for far too long.”

“And had you not left, we would not be here now.” Adrielle fingers slid through the dark hair on his chest.

Adam caressed her. “So true. And so, my love, we must now go on and live our lives, but I promise you that I will do whatever is reasonably possible to help your family. They are now my family, too.”

“Thank you. That is very important to me.”

“I love you, Adrielle.

 

RESILIENCE

After a night of minimal sleep in the cramped upstairs room at the Perrot home, Adam and Adrielle left for Paris shortly after sunrise. He had not imagined that he would return as a married man, however, the conscription lottery notice in the village near the Perrot farm had changed that. Though marriage was what he had been hoping for, Adrielle’s acceptance of his spontaneous proposal came as a surprise. The newlyweds enjoyed just one night of conjugal bliss before major upheaval with her family and a dangerous encounter with Adrien Fournier. Adam’s injured arm and Henri Perrot’s disengagement made for two serious bumps in just three days of married life. Now Adam was concerned about how Adrielle would take living in his single room and arriving late to his job. These and many other things weighed on his mind as they rode toward the city.

After three hours of travel, they arrived at Adam’s small room. Adrielle set her bag of belongings on one of the two chairs at the small table in front of the window that looked out over the street.

He set down his bag and pulled her close. “Not what you were hoping for I am sure, but I promise to get something larger just as soon as I can.”

Adrielle bit her lip and then forced a happier look. “I did not give you any time to prepare.” She removed his hand from her side and pulled out bread, cheese, and removed the lid from a tin of milk. “You need to eat something before you leave. Here, sit down. It is going to be a difficult day.”

Adam kissed her cheek and pulled the chair out for her to sit down. “Thank you, but it will not be an easy day for you either.” He took his seat beside her and immediately began breaking off bits of bread and cheese.”

“I will go visit Celeste and Chloe’ at Eglise Notre Dame Des Champs and get some food for this evening.”

“I had not thought about the fact that Chloe’ would need to go along with Celeste. I am sure your father is not happy about that on top of everything else.”

“It will be good for Chloe’ to see how to run the cart, and she can do small things for Celeste. But -”

“Yes?”

“I am not sure how this will affect her seeing Jules.”

Adam chuckled. “Yes, that could make things more interesting.” He placed his hand over hers. “And we will hope that my boss had an enjoyable weekend and forgives my tardiness.”

“I am sure he will once you explain the situation. You are good at such things.”

Adam came close to choking on the sip of milk he was taking from the tin pail. “Are you sure that you want me to explain everything?”

“Why not? Are you suddenly embarrassed?”

“No. No. I am sure my story will make the rounds in short order. I am not much for people knowing my personal business, that is all.”

“But you do not regret marrying me, do you?”

Absolutely not! But have you forgotten what you said when I got shot?”

Adrielle gently brushed down his beard. “Of course, not. I was terrified. You were very fortunate that your injury was not worse.”

“Yes, so you see that others may be more sympathetic to your point of view and wonder what in the world I was thinking.”

“Possibly, but I would think it would be the type of tale that men love to tell.” Adrielle leaned in and kissed his lips. “You are my brave knight.”

His hazel eyes brightened with pride. “Thank you, but now I must get going.” Adam pulled some money from his pocket. “Use whatever you need.” Adam gave her a long kiss. “It will probably be a long day.” He moved toward the door and paused. “I will be home just as soon as I can. I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

Their happy parting did not prepare Adam for what he found when he returned from work hours later. Adrielle lay sobbing on the bed. He did a quick scan of the room and all seemed to be in order.

“Adrielle? What is wrong?”

Adam sat down on the edge of the bed. Adrielle’s back was to him; so he attempted to roll her toward him, but she resisted. He combed back her hair off of her face and placed a kiss on the top of her head.

“Please, sweetheart, I cannot help if you do not tell me what is wrong.”

She turned her head toward him enough that he could see from her puffy eyelids that she had been crying for a while.

“I went to Eglise Notre Dame Des Champs and the -” Her voice broke. “The cart was not there! No Celeste and Chloe’.”

Though it was painful with his sore arm, Adam helped her sit up and he held tightly in his arms. “There may be a very simple explanation. The wagon might have broken down. Or the horse pulled up lame. There could be a number of reasons.”

Burying her head in his chest. “No. No. I have a very bad feeling about this.”

He wanted to reassure her and say that everything was fine, but he could not possibly know that was truly the case. He wondered if this was an attempt by Henri Perrot to get even with him, but if so; it was also a cruel way to treat his daughter. He hoped for Adrielle’s sake that there truly was a simple explanation for the flower cart not being in its scheduled location. Tired, and hungry, Adam realized that he had allowed his mind to churn without saying anything, and he tried to release her so that he could look into her eyes. Yet, Adrielle clung to him.

Adam had not wanted his wife to feel as though he was taking advantage of her, but his tender caresses helped Adrielle to relax and soon led to passionate kisses. Now secure in his arms, she became his ready lover. The tensions of the day were for a time held at bay as they let their passions take over.

Adrielle snuggled into Adam’s side as their breathing was slowing back to normal. The quiet moment was interrupted when his stomach growled loudly. She patted his noisy belly and then moved to get up and get some of the food from the table, but realized she had nothing to cover herself. Sensing her insecurity, Adam threw back the bed clothes.

“Do not ever be afraid to let me see you. It is not brazen or inappropriate because you are my wife. In bed, out of bed, you are beautiful.”

She leaned over and kissed him, thankful for his intuition. Adrielle then rose confidently and brought two meat pies wrapped in brown paper and two napkins. Meanwhile Adam propped himself up with a pillow and readied the other pillow for her. He quickly devoured his pie which caused her to feed him the last few bites of hers and finish with a kiss.

“I cannot think of a better way to eat dinner.” Adam’s finger traced a path from her cheek, across her lips, down the side of her neck, between her cleavage, and then he tweaked one of her responding rose bud breasts.

Adrielle’s eyes closed as she took in the sensation. Yet moments later, her chest rose and fell as the weight of her cares slipped back into her mind.

Again sensing her worry, Adam turned her face toward him. “There was some good news today. I have a lead on a larger apartment. I will make arrangements to go and see it.”

Adrielle forced a smile and nodded.

“The rest we will know in time.” Adam raised his arm over her and pulled her close.

 

STEADFAST LOVE

A pleasurable night together did help to alleviate some of the stresses Adam and Adrielle were feeling. Then on Tuesday, they went to see the apartment that Maxou Roche, Adam’s supervisor, had recommended. It seemed like a good fit but was not going to be available for a few weeks because of repairs. However, it was big enough for the addition of a new little Cartwright should that happy event occur. This bright spot did not make up for Adrielle’s stressful days with no word from her family. Jules was also checking the regular spots where he usually found Celeste working at the flower cart and came up empty. On Friday, Adam had Jules check with Perrot’s employer and found that Henri had not been to work all week. Adam then decided that they should all make a trip out to the Perrot farm on Saturday. Jules had heard about Adrien Fournier and thought it best that he wait for Celeste at the tavern in the nearby village. He was not prepared for an encounter with either Henri Perrot or Adrien Fournier.

Saturday morning, Adam and Adrielle proceeded to her homestead after dropping Jules off at the tavern in the village. They were greeted excitedly by the boys and Chloe’, each talking over the other. Per the children, Adam and Adrielle found Henri Perrot on the back porch. His face was covered with green bruises and scabs. When questioned how the injuries had occurred, Perrot refused to answer. Celeste came from the garden carrying a basket of vegetables. She willingly related what had happened on the Monday past.

She told how Adrien Fournier had met Perrot wagon on the way to the city. The young farmer had demanded Celeste in place of Adrielle. When Perrot refused, Fournier pulled him from the wagon and began threatening him and beating him. Celeste’s and Chloe’s screams did nothing to deter Fournier from continuing to beat their father. Despite her young sister being present, Celeste told Adrien that she would remove his manhood in his sleep if she was forced to marry him. The bulky farmer glared at her and then heaved her father into the brush before running off through the field. A few days later and much to Perrot’s relief, Celeste heard in the village that Adrien Fournier had been picked in the military consignment lottery.

After completing her story, Adrielle pulled Celeste aside and told her that Jules was in the village. Adam took his sister-in-law in the rig to make for a faster trip. Adam, Celeste, and Jules returned two hours later. Henri Perrot listened stone-faced as Jules requested Celeste’s hand in marriage with the concession that the couple would remain on the farm. With few options for keeping most of his family intact, Perrot agreed. Adam offered his hand in congratulations to Jules and wished him well.

Jules and Celeste were married a month later at the church in the village. And though Adrielle was a bit jealous of her sister’s traditional wedding ceremony and celebration, she did what she could to help make it a wonderful occasion. Many from the area came for the food, drink, and dancing. After watching the folk dancing for a time, Adam was ready for an opportunity to dance with his wife.

“Come. You have done enough for now. You look tired. Maybe this will refresh you.” Adam led Adrielle out among those who were dancing in the street beside the church. “I will do my best, but this is not the Virginia Reel.”

“Virginia Reel?”

“It is one of the dances I am familiar with from back home.”

Adam enjoyed the feel of Adrielle in his arms as he twirled, swung, and promenaded her about with the other couples.

When the gay music slowed to a stop, Adrielle brought her hands up to her chest and drew a deep breath. “Oh that was fun, but I think I need something to drink.”

Adam leaned down and kissed her flushed cheek. “Are you feeling alright, my love?”

“Just tired, but it has been a full day.”

Adam leaned in and whispered, “Yes, but could there be another reason you are feeling tired?”

Adrielle’s cheeks flushed more brightly. “Men are not supposed to know these things, but I am a few days late for my monthly flow.”

Adam grinned broadly and leaned close. “And what makes you think that I have not been keeping track?”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.”

***Adrielle tucked her thumbs inside her fists and brought them to her lips.***

“What is that you are doing?”

“Wishing good luck for a happy reason that my flow is late.”

Adam tucked his thumbs under and placed his palms over Adrielle’s fists before kissing her lips.

Eight months later, on a warm April day when the scent of blossoms was hanging in the air, Adam received an urgent message at work that his wife’s time had come. He rushed home to be at her side despite the midwife’s insistence that Adrielle would do better without him in the room since the baby would be coming soon. Ignoring the midwife, Adam pushed back the door, threw his jacket and bow-tie on the chair and grabbed hold of Adrielle’s hands that were reaching out to him. He leaned down and kissed her forehead through the damp ringlets clinging to her skin. Through moans, grunts and cries, Adam did not release her hands until they heard the wail of their dark-haired son. The midwife wiped the baby and laid him on his mother’s belly. With tears in his eyes, Adam examined the tiny fingers and toes of his son’s wriggling body.

“He is beautiful.” Adam leaned down and gently kissed his wife. “I love you more than words can express. Thank you for our son.”

Adrielle stroked his cheek and beard. “He is beautiful, yes? Go ahead and give him his name.”

Adam wrapped the towel around his son and ever so carefully picked him up and tucked him securely into the crook of his arm. He cradled his son’s head in the palm of his other hand. “Jonathan Eric Cartwright, I welcome you into the Cartwright family.” He then raised Jonathan to his lips and kissed the baby boy’s forehead. When Adam placed Jonathan in his mother’s arms, the child turned his head and began to root on her damp nightgown. The midwife who was still working encouraged her to let the child suckle. Adrielle loosened the tie on her gown and exposed a breast and turned the baby toward her. Jonathan’s little head bobbed and searched until she helped him latch on so that he began to suck noisily.

Adam laughed merrily. “I like a man who knows what he wants!” His words caused Adrielle to blush. “Do not be embarrassed, sweetheart. I have never seen a more precious sight.” He stroked his son’s head as the boy continued to nurse. “You are a natural and will be a wonderful mother.”

About a month later, Adam, Adrielle, and Jonathan visited the Perrot farm. The entire family was gathered to witness Henri Perrot beaming with pride when Adrielle placed Jonathan in his arms. Adam slipped an arm around his wife’s waist, pulled her close, and placed a kiss into her burnished tresses. Adrielle and Celeste blinked back tears when the older sister patted the round and protruding belly of her younger sister.

***Note:

Tucking your thumbs inside your fists is the French equivalent to crossing your fingers.

 

TUMULT

Adam sat in the rocker cuddling his sleeping son. Just a week prior, Adam, Adrielle, and the greater Perrot family had celebrated Jonathan’s first birthday. It had been a joyous day. And in another month, they would celebrate the birthday of Celeste and Jules’ honey-haired beauty, Sophie. However, today, Adam’s heart was heavy. He wondered whether that celebration would occur. He had been hearing a lot of heated political discussions over the past months, and with the World Exhibition just a memory and the elections less than two months away, the possibility of serious unrest had grown increasingly likely. Napoleon’s fickle ways and lust for power and the jockeying for control of the German states were of great concern to him. The power hungry Wilhelm II of Prussia, France’s neighbor to the east, seemed all too eager to expand his control. These things hung like a weight around Adam’s neck. He had seen the devastation caused by hatred and discord in the United States and was grateful that the ugly time was past. Adam ruminated over the words he had with Adrielle earlier in the evening, words that had left her distraught. He paused his thoughts to sing softly once again the lullaby that had helped Jonathan to fall asleep.

At the clear spring,

As I was strolling by

I found the water so nice

That I went in to bathe.

It’s so long I’ve been loving you,

That I’ll never forget you.

Under an oak tree,

I dried myself.

On the highest branch

A nightingale was singing.

It’s so long I’ve been loving you

That I’ll never forget you.

Sing, nightingale, sing,

Your heart is so happy.

Your heart feels like laughing,

Mine feels like weeping.

It’s so long I’ve been loving you,

That I’ll never forget you.

Adam placed a kiss in his son’s dark curls and then began to whisper the concerns of his heart.

“Oh my dear Jonathan. I fear that I must take you away from this beautiful place – your Mother’s home land – the land that she loves so very much. But there are things stirring – ugly things – things that could hurt you – hurt our family. It breaks my heart to think what you will miss not growing up in France – the wealth of history and culture. America is so young and raw by comparison. But there are good things there, too, and I will make sure that you experience them. And maybe, one day, you will see my home.”

Adam paused and sighed. His chest clenched with the pain of his own loss.

“Someday, I will take you to Nevada so that you can meet your other grandfather and uncles. But for now, take comfort in knowing that Aunt Celeste, Uncle Jules, and Sophie will be coming, too. I pray that your Grandfather Perrot will be open to making a new life in America – I hope he thinks of Lucas, Mattieu, and Chloe’ – their future. Know above all else, my son, that I love you.”

Adam rose from the rocker with Jonathan secure in his arms and carried the boy to his crib. Jonathan curled up when Adam laid him in the bed and covered him with a small quilt.

“Goodnight, son. Sweet dreams”, Adam whispered.

He entered his bedroom and found Adrielle in bed with her back to him. He undressed wearily and slipped under the covers. When she did not move toward him, he moved closer and swung his arm over her and drew her in. Though Adrielle did not resist him, she kept her chin tucked not wanting to look at him.

“I hope you know that this brings me no pleasure, and that I would never even hint at leaving France unless the situation was critical. The problem is that if things suddenly take a turn, then many may be trying to leave, and we may not be able to book passage to America.”

Adrielle nodded against his chest. “I know you think it best, but my heart still aches and I am worried that Papa will not want to go. What will happen to the boys and Chloe’?”

“They are the most important reason that he should agree to go. I will do my best to help him see that. We will go speak with him this weekend, yes?”

Again, Adrielle nodded.

“I love you and Jonathan with all my heart. I am duty bound to protect you and provide for you.”

Adrielle relaxed in his embrace and snuggled into his chest.

Note:

Lullaby sung by Adam is taken from the French classic, ‘A La Claire Fontaine’.

 

UNCERTAINTY

The unsettling, intervening days before meeting with Henri Perrot dragged on, but it did give Adam time to confirm that the itinerary he had planned for returning to America almost two years prior was still viable. The family would take a train to the harbor city of Calais and then ferry across to Dover, England. From Dover they would take a train to Liverpool. There they would arrange travel on the Cunard Line which would take them to Boston by way of Halifax, Nova Scotia. It would take four to six weeks to cross the Atlantic depending on the weather. With two small children, Adam knew that they would probably need to pad a few extra days of rest before boarding for America.

Adam also spoke with a real estate broker about purchasing the Perrot farm. Paris was expanding rapidly, and it was not going to be long until the little village near the farm was annexed into Paris. Once that happened, farms would soon be bought up as well. Adam felt that Henri knew that it was just a matter of time, and yet, he also knew how stubborn the man could be.

Adrielle was quiet and sad when they left for the family farm on Saturday morning. Adam had tried to prepare her for the discussion with her father. He needed her to appear positive about going to America even if it did make her sad. Of course, Perrot was happy to see Jonathan and Adam put the boy into his grandfather’s arms at the first opportunity after their arrival, hoping to put his father-in-law in a mood. The family was gathered in the yard off the back porch where Henri Perrot was sitting. After a time of visiting, Adam nodded to Adrielle. She then encouraged Celeste, who had Sophie, and the others except for Jules, to take a stroll in the meadow.

“Jonathan, my boy, I think you have grown since your birthday.” Perrot was giving Jonathan a “horsey” ride on his foot. “You are getting heavy for your Grand Pere.”

Adam chuckled and sat down on the edge of the porch, “Growing like a weed. Sophie, too, yes Jules?”

“Yes, I cannot believe that a year has gone by and how much she has grown.” Jules leaned into the porch post.

“They will be grown in a blink of an eye. Just look at Lucas, Mattieu, and Chloe’. Seems like only yesterday that they were this size.” Perrot slowed his “horse” as he thought about the passage of time.

Adam glanced at Jules before wading into the thorny subject that had brought him here this day. He then looked at Jonathan who was now chasing a kitten in the yard.

“Henri – I have been thinking a lot about the future – Jonathan’s future in particular. I am sure you hear the political talk.” Adam paused and looked directly at Perrot. “It is heating up with the elections so close. And then there is the bear across the border that is a growing threat.”

Perrot’s eyes narrowed as if preparing for troubling news, however, Adam went on undeterred.

“Adrielle and I have decided to go to America.”

“America?”

“Yes. If it was only myself to be concerned about, I might be more willing to ride things out and see what happens. But I have a wife and child to consider.”

Perrot looked at his grandson and then at Jules. “And what about you?”

“We plan to go with Adam and Adrielle. Celeste and I feel the same.”

“I cannot believe that Adrielle wants to go. Celeste – she is headstrong, but not Adrielle!”

“She is very sad at the prospect of leaving, but you could help that by agreeing to come with us.”

“Come with you? And leave all this behind?” Perrot swung his arm wide.

“Many have done it and are doing it for even greater opportunities.”

Perrot grunted.

“It would be possible to sell this farm for good money.”

“And just how do you know this?”

“I spoke with a broker.”

“How dare you meddle in my affairs!”

“No promises were made and no money was exchanged.”

“So you are all ganging up on me.” Perrot glared at Jules.

Jules stood up to his full height. “I told Adam long ago, even before Celeste and I married, that I would consider going to America. I want no part of political upheaval.”

Adam continued. “We are just informing you what we are planning to do soon. Two weeks.”

“Two weeks!” Perrot shouted.

“Yes, I want to be out of France before the elections.”

“Two weeks.” Perrot muttered and looked up at Jules. “You would throw this all away. You have been here for over a year now.”

“And I am grateful to you, but like Adam, I need to be thinking about Sophie’s future – our future. I am still a young man.”

Perrot grimaced at Jules words. Adam jumped back into the conversation to take the pressure off of Jules.

“Thankfully, Lucas and Mattieu are still young enough not to be conscripted for several years, but that will be a concern in the future – and Chloe’ -”

“I do not need your help to take care of my children!”

“Henri, we want you all to go with us. Please consider it.” Adam rose to go and retrieve Jonathan who was tormenting the kitten.

Adam and Jules left Henri Perrot sitting on the porch to contemplate his family’s future.

 

VENTURE AMERICA

The ride back to Paris was a depressing one for Adam and Adrielle. Tears slid down Adrielle’s cheeks and dropped onto Jonathan’s shoulder as he sat in her lap. Earlier in the afternoon, the older sisters and their husbands broke the news to the younger siblings about their plans to leave for America. Chloe’s tears were painful for everyone, but the tears of Lucas and Mattieu were even more difficult to handle because they were trying so hard to be men. Even the promise of returning the following weekend for final goodbyes had done little to soothe the Perrot children.

As he drove the rig, Adam mulled over the situation trying to find the right words to comfort his wife. He was thankful that Jonathan was young enough not to know what was happening.

“There is still time for your father to change his mind. Jules has the broker’s name and our itinerary. We will hope for the best.”

Adrielle’s throat was tight with emotion and could not speak; so she hugged Jonathan and kissed the top of his hat.

On the following Wednesday, Adam got an unexpected visit from Jules.

“Bonjour, Adam!”

Adam’s face broke into his trademark dimpled grin. “Bonjour, Jules. Does the smile on your face mean what I think it does?”

“Yes! I am taking Henri to visit the broker this morning. I just wanted to let you know and see if you had any advice for me as he wants me there during the negotiations.”

Adam rose from his chair and shook Jule’s hand. “Good. I am happy on all fronts. Thank God! Adrielle will be so relieved!”

Jules heaved a great sigh. “Yes, as is Celeste.”

“I wish that I could get away and go with you, but I cannot. I am working to train my replacement, and there is still a lot to go over.”

“I understand completely. I do not envy all the loose ends you must tie up before we leave.”

“I will do the best I can to leave things in good stead. The company will be fine without me. No man is indispensable, or at least he should not be.”

“But you have done well here. I am sure that Monsieur Roche is sorry to lose you.”

“Thank you for that. Now as far as speaking with the broker, just make sure you do not mention needing to make a quick sale and be prepared to walk away if he does not offer what Henri wants. I am willing to wait a few days longer to leave now that I know Henri is willing to go. Please let me know how things go.”

“I will.”

Adam held up his fists with his thumbs tucked in. Jules smiled broadly and did likewise before leaving Adam’s office.

It was later than usual when Adam got home to his apartment that evening. Jonathan was already in bed, a source of frustration to Adrielle when Adam greeted her after his long day.

“I am sorry to be so late.” Adam leaned down and kissed her, but he could tell she was not responding in her normal, receptive manner. “It is quiet. Jonathan in bed?”

“Yes, a while ago. Come and get your dinner. I have kept it warm for you.”

“Thank you. I am sorry I did not get home to help put Jonathan to bed, but I do have news that should make you very happy.”

Adrielle’s tired blue eyes brightened. “Yes?”

“Jules stopped by the office today and -” Adam paused, unable to keep the grin off his face.

“They are coming?”

“Yes!”

Adrielle threw herself into his arms and kissed him soundly. Adam took her face tenderly in his hands and kissed her forehead.

“I know this whole process will still be difficult, but maybe now you can relax just a bit, yes?”

Adrielle looked up into his caring, hazel eyes and suddenly burst into tears. All the pent up emotion came pouring out.

“Oh, sweetheart. Let it all out.” He tightened his embrace and then stroked her hair and placed kisses in her soft tresses.

It took a few minutes for her to regain her composure and wipe her eyes.

“I must look awful. I suppose we should both go wash up for dinner.”

Adam took her hand and they both went to the wash stand. He poured some water into the basin and dampened a cloth. Carefully, he wiped her face and neck.

“There, feel better?”

“Yes, much, thank you.” Adrielle pulled at his tie and started to undo the top buttons on his shirt. “Shall I put dinner on the table?”

“Dinner can wait.”

“I thought that might be the case.” She undid a few more buttons and ran her fingers through the thick dark hair on this chest.

Their rising passions helped them make quick work of their clothes. Minutes laters Adrielle laid curled into his side on the bed, both were feeling great relief after several stress filled days. Adam’s hands roamed freely over her heated body enjoying her soft curves.

He nipped at her bottom lip. “Only a few more days of this kind of freedom – and then once we are on the ship – well – there will be privacy, but the accommodations may not be the most comfortable, even in a first class cabin.”

“But now our family will be together. Maybe not so good for certain things.” She paused to release a merry laugh. “But I am so happy.”

“There are many benefits to having a happy wife!”

Adrielle threw back her head and laughed heartily as Adam buried his head in her cleavage.

A little over a week later, Adam’s family and the extended Perrot family were gathered on the crowded platform of the Austerlitz train station ready to board for Calais early in the morning. There was a carpet bag for each person and 3 small trunks. Only the most prized possessions were making the long journey to America. Everything else had been sold or given away. Adam forced a more relaxed expression than he was feeling given that he was the only member of the party who had ever traveled more than fifteen kilometers from where they had been born. Looking around at the rest of the family, he saw a lot of fear on their faces, though Henri, Jules, and the boys were trying their best to hide it.

Once on the train, Adam was grateful to see that everyone was more at ease. Even Jonathan and Sophie enjoyed looking out the window of the train. The train arrived in Calais in the late afternoon. Adam secured rooms for them at Hôtel d’Angleterre. He planned on spending two nights in Calais so there would be time to exchange their French currency and to book the four hour ferry trip to Dover, England.

Two days later the group boarded the steamer ferry for Dover. It was cool and overcast with a cutting wind. The women, babies, and Chloe’ were able to get seats under cover. The males of the family toughed it out on the open deck and were quite chilled by the time the boat reached Dover. The imposing White Cliffs of Dover did little to warm their cold and damp bodies. Adam hired a large carriage to take them to the nearest public house that had room for ten people which unfortunately did not happen until the third attempt. And though he would have liked to have a day to recover, the cramped accommodations forced the family to press on as far as Birmingham by train the following morning. Birmingham was not as large as Paris, but offered many options for hotels for two nights.

On the sixth morning of their trip, the family boarded the train for Liverpool. Like Birmingham, Liverpool was a large city of over three hundred thousand. Adam was able to find reasonable accommodations for them. He planned for them to stay at least three nights but knew that all would depend on booking their passage to America.

Adam, Jules, and Henri went down to the wharf the morning after their arrival in Liverpool. The sights and sounds brought back many memories to Adam from his year at sea. Though Henri and Jules had seen large freighters on the Seine, they had never seen the ocean-going ships in anything but pictures. It was a sight to behold. The men made their way to the Cunard Line office. Cunard ran several ships a week. Most went to New York, however, the Tripoli was leaving for Boston in two days. They were able to secure four first class cabins for the equivalent of eighty dollars per person. Upon their return to the hotel, the family met together to discuss their itinerary.

Two days later, the greater Perrot family, led by Adam, stood among the fortunate first class passengers waiting to board the Tripoli. There were hundreds of people waiting in a holding area below them. It reminded Adam of a herd of steers packed together at the end of a cattle drive. He did his best to distract the rest of the family by pointing out elements of the ship.

Within the hour, the family crossed the huge gang plank and were shown to their cabins. It did not take long to settle in as the quarters were small, but at least private. In their cabin, Adam stored their bags and trunk as a beleaguered Adrielle looked on from the chair holding a squirming Jonathan.

“There. Ready to sail. Shall we go out to the salon? We will likely have to spend a lot of time in here; so let us enjoy the fresh air while we can.” Adam leaned and kissed his wife’s cheek before taking Jonathan from her arms. “I know you are nervous, but we will get through this together as we have everything else thus far, yes?”

Adrielle could only nod. He took her hand and led her out onto the upper deck. They stood at the rail and looked out over the sea. It would be their home for the next few weeks. Adam prayed silently for calm seas, the health of his family, and for a prosperous future in America.

 

WAVES

Adam and his family were on board the Tripoli ready to sail for America. They were soon joined at the rail by the rest of the family. Jules and Adam maintained a firm hold on their young ones as the group watched the throng of people boarding and moving into steerage. Everyone, including the youngest, had ridden the ferry on the Seine, however, the smell of the salty sea air and the sight of all the ships and boats docked or moving through the bay was a brand new experience for all but Adam. He wrapped his arm around Adrielle and realized she was shaking.

Adam whispered in her ear so as not to draw the others attention. “Are you all right? Should we go into our cabin?”

“Just overwhelmed with it all.” She whispered back.

Adam leaned in to kiss her cheek and then caressed her arm. He jostled his son and rubbed his bearded face into the boy’s neck.

“We are going to make a seaman out of you Jonathan before we reach Boston — just like your father, grandfather and great-grandfather!”

The rest of the family looked their way and laughed when Jonathan giggled with glee. The laughter seemed somewhat forced as Adrielle was not the only one feeling the tension of the upcoming journey. Almost every word of information or instruction had to be translated for them by Adam, the exception being Adrielle who had learned a little English in the past year. Adam performed the task of translator willingly and courteously, but could tell that Henri in particular hated the helpless feeling. Adam hoped that he could use the time on the ship to work with the family on some basic English skills.

The steward for their cabins walked up to the group and announced that the Tripoli was still more than an hour from setting sail and that tea would be served in their cabins shortly. Adam took note of the man in the smart, burgundy uniform with gold buttons and braid. The steward appeared to be about Jules’ age and had eyed both Adrielle and Celeste in a manner that Adam found disconcerting. He knew that he must keep his eyes on this man and warn Jules to do likewise. Having been a seaman for a short period of time, Adam was fully aware of the disadvantages of being a woman on board a ship, let alone beautiful one like Adrielle and Celeste. Women were frequently targets of initiated and unwanted attention from the crew. However, Adam decided for the time being not to mention anything to Adrielle since she was already very nervous about the trip. He did not want to give her any more reasons to be upset without just cause.

After enjoying their tea and biscuits, Adam pulled his coat back on and helped his wife and son with theirs. He then went to his bag and pulled out a small harness that had buckles and a two- foot long braided leather cord with a loop handle attached.

“Remember this?” Adam knelt down and held the harness out to his son. “We practiced wearing it a few times.”

The boy reached out and grabbed at the harness.

“This will help to keep Mama and Papa sane these next few weeks. Right, Mama?”

Adrielle sighed. “A necessary evil of being on the ship, but yes, I would never be able to relax without it.

“Agreed. And I think it will be easier for him because Sophie will be wearing one also. Here you go, son.”

Adam pulled Jonathan’s arms through the openings of the harness and turned him around to do the three buckles in the back.

A series of bells and whistles were soon heard through the cabin window. Then the groans and roars of the steam engines and the smell of smoke filled the air.

“Time to go and watch them cast off and set sail.”

Minutes later, the extended Perrot family watched as the Tripoli slowly moved away from where it had been moored out into the bay. The ship cut through the calm waters smoothly. The members of the family returned to their respective cabins when the land began to fade into the distance. Within an hour, the Tripoli was out on the open sea headed west toward Nova Scotia. The skies were overcast for a time, but soon were clear with fair winds.

Adam grew nostalgic with the motion of the ship, however, Adrielle did not fare as well and laid down in her bunk. Jonathan seemed unfazed, roaming the cabin chasing a small horse on wheels that was rolling about.

“I will get you some ginger tea if you think that would help.” Adam stroked his wife’s cheek.

“Maybe in a while. I just want to try to rest.”

“Please tell me if you start feeling worse.”

Adrielle closed her eyes and nodded.

With Adrielle resting and Jonathan playing, Adam pulled the newspaper he had purchased before boarding from his bag. He scanned the front page briefly and then moved on to the next page. A headline caught his eye. There had been riots in Paris following the French elections, just days ago. Rioters had set fires in the streets and put up blockades disrupting traffic. He wondered if there had been disruptions of freight service at the business he had worked for. Everything Adam read confirmed that they had left just in time. He had never questioned that he was making the right decision for his family, but he hoped that this would help Henri to understand that his concerns were valid. France was becoming increasingly unstable.

A while late, Adrielle stirred in her bunk.

Adam folded the paper and brought it down. “How are you feeling?”

“Some better. I might try some ginger tea.”

“Jonathan and I will go find the steward. Are you able to get up and lock the door?”

“Yes I can do that.”

“We will be back as soon as we deliver the message.”

“See you in a bit.”

Adam slipped his hand through the loop on the handle of Jonathan’s harness and then took him by the hand so the child could at least try to walk. He made sure the cabin door was secure before walking away.

Adam was later than he had planned returning to his cabin. It had taken several minutes to find the steward and then he was stopped by Henri. He knocked on his cabin door and waited for Adrielle to answer. When she did not respond or open the door he called out.

“Adrielle?”

He glanced down at Jonathan, and his brown furrowed with concern. Still there was no answer.

Adam pushed on the door and found that it was unlocked.

 

E(X)PERIENCE, E(X)ASPERATION, And E(X)PECTATIONS

The voyage had barely gotten under way and Adrielle was suffering with fatigue and a queasy stomach. Adam and Jonathan left her in their cabin to go in search of the steward to get her some ginger tea. Between tracking down the steward and stopping to talk with Henri, it took longer than Adam had planned to get back to the cabin. He was very uneasy when Adrielle did not answer his knock and he found the door unlocked.

Adam picked up Jonathan before pushing back the cabin. He was not sure whether to be relieved or more worried when he found the cabin empty and a tray with a teapot and cup and saucer on the side table.

“Mama?” Jonathan called.

“Maybe your Mama is with Aunt Celeste. We shall go have a look.”

They went to the next cabin and knocked. Jules answered the door.

“Adam. I am glad you are back. There was a bit of a — situation. Your warning unfortunately was accurate.”

Jules held the door for Adam and Jonathan to step in, which was about all they could do with four adults and two children in such a small space. The look on the women’s faces let Adam know even before his wife spoke that there had been trouble.

Adrielle rose from her seat and moved to her husband and child. “I am so glad you are back. That — that — man!”

“I will have a talk with him and make sure that the captain knows that he has a problem. Let’s go back and give Celeste and Jules their cabin back.”

Adrielle looked at her sister with gratitude. “Merci.”

Adam and his family entered their cabin. Adrielle slumped onto the settee.

“I am sorry I was not here.” Adam set Jonathan down and the child crawled up into his mother’s lap. Adam stepped over and began massaging Adrielle’s shoulders. “Tell me what happened.”

“When you left, I was going to get up and lock the door, but I started feeling badly. I know I should have gotten up.”

“You cannot help feeling sick. So I take it that the steward showed up and let himself into the cabin.”

“There was a knock. I asked who was there. The next thing I knew he was in the room pretending to be concerned about me, but the look on his face said otherwise.”

“What did you do?”

“I told him that I would be fine and to put the tea on the table, but he just stood there and looked at me; so I banged on the cabin wall and Jules came immediately to see what the problem was. Of course, the steward played innocent and left right away.”

“Thank goodness. That was quick thinking on your part.” Adam’s face grew dark and he turned for the door. “I will take care of this.”

“Adam! He did not hurt me and honestly being frightened has helped my seasickness.”

“This is not a joke. I have heard too many stories. You were fortunate and I was negligent. It will not happen again. I am going to make certain of it. Lock the door behind me.”

Adam went out the door and closed it firmly. He made his way to the wheelhouse where he knocked on the door.

A well-kept man in uniform who appeared to be in his mid twenties opened the door. “May I help you, sir.”

“With whom am I speaking?”

“Second Officer Spurlock, sir.”

“Pleased to meet you, Officer Spurlock.” Adam held out his right hand. ” My name is Cartwright.” The officer accepted his greeting. “I am a first-class passenger in cabin F with my wife and child.”

Spurlock stepped out and closed the door behind him. “Very good, sir. How may I help you?”

“There is a problem with the steward for our cabin. He was intimidating my wife. Something needs to be done.”

“Your complaint is noted and I will check into it. Thank you for bringing it to our attention. I will be in touch when I have something to report.”

“Thank you. I would appreciate your prompt attention.”

Officer Spurlock nodded and returned to the wheelhouse. Given the brevity of the conversation, Adam was not convinced that the problem would handled through the proper channels. He went in search of the steward. Hurrying down the stairs to the first class deck, he walked past the cabins on the opposite side of the ship where his cabin was located. He passed a few passengers and then a steward but not the man who served his cabin. About midway toward the back of the ship there was a stairway down to the galley. Adam was just about to go down when the man he was looking for came up the last few stairs carrying a tray.

“There you are.”

“Sir?”

“If you weren’t holding that tray I would put you into the wall!”

“I beg you pardon?”

“Don’t play stupid with me you predator. I know your type.”

“I don’t have to stand here and take this.”

When the steward attempted to bypass him, Adam grabbed him by the arm causing the dishes to slide on the tray. Adam leaned in so close that his nose almost touched the younger man’s nose.

“You stay away from cabins F, G, and H, do you hear me? I don’t care who brings the food, but it had better not be you!”

“You are keeping me from my work — sir.” The steward’s words were forced through his gritted teeth and again he tried to pull away, but could not.

Adam firmly held his grip on the steward’s arm. “If I see you at any of those cabins, you will be missing some essential parts of your body. I have castrated more than my share of cattle and would have no trouble with you! Got it?”

The color drained from the steward’s face and his head bobbed in response. Adam roughly released the man’s arm and the steward hurried away.

Needing some time to cool down before returning to his cabin, Adam went to the rail and looked out on the vast, dark waters. He could feel himself beginning to relax. Eventually he felt ready to go back.

Adrielle answered his knock with a finger to her lips. Jonathan was asleep on her bunk. His peacefully sleeping son brought a weary smile to his lips. He wished for some of the peace of childhood innocence as he removed his coat and hung it on one of the big hooks on the wall.

Sensing that her husband was still tense, Adrielle stroked his beard and whispered. “You were gone for some time. Did all go well?”

“Yes — I do not think he will be bothering you again.”

She leaned into him and he drew her close. Adam released her and went to his bag.

“I am going to read for a bit. Maybe we could all go out for some fresh air when he wakes.”

“Would you read to me. I do not think I could manage doing any reading without my stomach revolting.”

“I would be happy to.”

They sat down together on the settee and Adam began reading to her in hushed tones.

A while later, Adam and his family were walking about the deck when Officer Spurlock approached them.

“Mr. Cartwright. Mrs. Cartwright.”

“Adrielle, this is Second Officer Spurlock. I spoke with him early this afternoon.”

Spurlock nodded to Adrielle and smiled at Jonathan. “Pleased to meet you. You have a fine looking boy. I wanted to let you know the you will have a different steward for the rest of the voyage.” Spurlock tried to read Adam’s face, but found nothing to indicate that there had been a confrontation between the two men. “But my guess is that you knew that already.”

“Thank you for taking care of the situation. I do appreciate your prompt attention.”

“You are welcome. I hope the remainder of your voyage is pleasant and uneventful. Good day.”

Adam nodded. “Thank you. Good day.”

The Cartwright family returned to their cabin. Dinner was served shortly thereafter by their new steward.

The uneventful days flowed one to the next. Adam reminded his greater family that a calm, boring voyage was exactly what they wanted. English lessons became the highlight of the day. Lucas, Mattieu, and Chloe’ were eager learners. Jules and Celeste were more playful about the lessons. Henri tended to listen and not speak for fear that the others would make fun of him.

As their English skills grew, the days went by, and after eighteen days at sea, land came into view. They would be in Halifax the following day.

 

YEARNING FOR AMERICA

A great sense of relief flooded the hearts and minds of the Cartwrights and Perrots as the Tripoli churned its way into the Halifax harbor. Though the remainder of the trip was expected to take only three more days, the ship would be in port for the next two nights. This gave the families an opportunity to go into the bustling and expanding city of Halifax. Adam had quizzed the officers about potential sights to see and was told that there was a lovely Victorian garden less than two miles from the wharf that could offer a peaceful, green place to walk and relax. Since the ship was coming into port later in the day and the red evening sky appeared to predict good weather, Adam decided that they should make a lengthy excursion to the garden the following day. However, he warned the family that they might be a bit uncomfortable for the first hour or so on land, and encouraged the women to lean on their husbands if they were feeling wobbly or dizzy.

The following morning after breakfast, Adam and all disembarked from the Tripoli. He encouraged each individual family group to take their own cab that way they could practice their English skills on the drivers. Jules and Celeste seemed prepared to do this, but Henri was not so sure. When Henri balked at the idea, Adam suggested that Mattieu help his father. Mattieu, Lucas, and Chloe’ were rapidly gaining a command of basic English as Adam thought they would. He had full confidence in Mattieu’s ability to hire a cab and tell the driver that they wanted to go to the Victorian Garden.

The garden was every bit as lovely as described. Adam and Jules could visibly see their wives relax upon arrival even when walking slowly and tentatively. It also offered an opportunity for the little ones to walk without their harnesses. Since Jonathan and Sophie walked a bit like drunken sailors normally, the two seemed to handle the change from sea to land well.

The well-groomed, colorful garden beds, flowering shrubs and large trees provided the precise respite that the family needed. They enjoyed nibbling on the bread and cheese they brought with them from the ship. The hours drifted by as they walked and sat on the wrought iron benches and took in all the natural beauty. Such a change from the weeks of the two tone palate at sea. By mid afternoon cabs were hailed again to take them back to the ship. Adam’s cab made a brief detour to a tobacco shop to get Henri a fresh supply for the remainder of the trip. Boarding the ship was difficult after their taste of land.

Adam was carrying the exhausted Jonathan as they entered their cabin. He laid the boy on Adrielle’s bunk. Jonathan curled up ready to go to sleep despite the early hour.

“It is too bad we will have to wake him for dinner.” Adrielle brushed back the boy’s dark curls before turning to face Adam. “It was such a lovely day. I cannot wait until we have a place of our own in Boston.”

Adam slipped his arm around his wife and drew her close. “It was wonderful to see something other than sky and sea, wasn’t it? Hopefully we will find a place with a beautiful garden. You would love to have some flowers to tend, yes?”

Adrielle heaved a great sigh and Adam thought for a moment that she would tear up. “Yes, it would seem more like home in France.”

He placed a kiss on her temple. “I know this is going to be difficult for you, but I will do all I can to make it feel like home.”

Adrielle nodded her gratitude.

“Let’s wash up. Dinner should be served soon.”

Tired from their day of walking about, the Cartwrights turned in early. The Tripoli was due to set sail early the next morning. There was a lot of noise in the wee hours of the morning as the crew prepared to set sail. Breakfast was served as the ship left the Halifax harbor. The family was out on the deck after eating to watch as the Tripoli headed out into the open water.

Though the morning had started well, the sea began to grow more rough as the day progressed. By evening the wind pushed large swells against the rocking ship. All the passengers were forced indoors. Driving rain soon followed. The chamber pot became necessary for churning rebellious stomachs as the storm pummeled the ship.

Notes:

A 16 acre Victorian Garden was built in 1867 in Halifax.

In 1869 one hurricane hit the east coast of the U.S. in September and another hit Nova Scotia in October. I took a bit of liberty as the story time frame was more like early July. But a tropical storm or hurricane is definitely possible at this time of year.

 

ZEPHYR

As the night wore on, the little ones wailed and the adults moaned. Finally with nothing left in their stomachs to come up, the members of each smaller family unit sat huddled on the floor of their respective cabins holding each other. Adam had been through a storm like this before, but it did not make him any more able to cope with the motion of the tossing ship in complete darkness. He hoped that he had not brought his wife and all her family on this journey only to be lost at sea. He silently prayed that God would protect them all and help them to endure the remainder of the storm without injury or loss of life.

I know that I’ve been far from a faithful servant, but please God, please! Don’t do this to me. I’ve waited so long to have a family of my own and I’ve made promises to them all. Don’t obliterate us and all the others who are suffering below. Please! I beg you for protection for all!

Adam continued to intercede for his family and the other passengers on the ship through the night. Finally as dawn broke, the motion of the boat slowly subsided to normal. There were knocks on the cabin doors informing the passengers that they were once again welcome on the deck. Fresh water was delivered for washing and drinking.

Tamping down his own needs, Adam took care of Adrielle and Jonathan. Then, he propped the cabin door open to let in fresh air and went to check on the rest of the family. Jules answered the door when he knocked. Adam had never seen his brother-in-law look so unwell.

“Jules. How are you all doing?” Adam reached out and squeezed the younger man’s shoulder.

Jules swiped at his brow while hanging on the handle to the door for support. “We survived. That is about all I can say. As soon as we are fit to be seen, we will get out for some air.”

“That is an excellent idea. You will recover more quickly than remaining inside. I’m going to check on Henri and the children.”

Jules nodded and closed the cabin door. Adam went next door and knocked. When no one came, he knocked again. It was Lucas who opened the cabin.

“Adam! I am so happy to see you. Papa, Mattieu, and Chloe’ are feeling really badly!”

The boy stepped back and allowed Adam to pass. Henri, Mattieu, and Chloe were in a heap in the corner of the cabin. The children stirred when Adam put a hand to each of their foreheads.

“Do you think you can stand? Lucas and I will help get you outside for some fresh air.”

When Mattieu nodded, Adam took his arm and put his other around the boy’s waist to help get him up.

Adam turned to Lucas. “See if you can get Chloe’ up and out to the rail. I’ll take Mattieu out and come back for your father.”

Adam returned to the Perrot cabin and took Henri by the arm. “Come on Henri. You will feel much better outside.”

Perrot grimaced at Adam’s tug on his arm and spat out. “I have you to thank that I am in this sorry state.”

“Thankfully, the storm is over. We should be in Boston in two days.” Adam pulled again and Henri wobbled but managed to stand up.

“I will believe it when I see it!” Perrot grumbled.

Soon the entire extended family was out at the rail refreshed by the soft, gentle breeze and grateful for the blue sky above. Adam called the wind a zephyr, a good omen for the rest of their journey.

Two days later, they were all back at the rail when the Tripoli churned into the Boston harbor. Adam felt a tug at his heart that he had not felt in a very long time. It was not the Ponderosa, but he had a definite sense of coming home. The familiar sights and sounds that he had grown to enjoy while he was in Boston for school came flooding back in his mind. Memories of his grandfather Stoddard warmed his heart but also left him saddened since the old sea captain had passed many years ago. He closed his eyes and savored the moment.

“Welcome to America, my love.” Adam leaned down and kissed his wife and then patted his son’s head and kissed his cheek.

Adrielle forced a weary smile, too overwhelmed with emotion to speak. Adam pulled her into an embrace and held her without speaking, letting her know that he understood how conflicted her feelings were at the moment. He touched her cheek before moving on to Celeste’s family. He held out his hand to Jules and kissed Celeste and little Sophie on the cheek.

“Welcome to America!”

Jules and Celeste offered him their thanks in English. Adam moved on down the rail and grabbed the Perrot boys by the shoulders.

“Welcome to America!”

Lucas and Mattieu held out their right hands which Adam eagerly accepted. He then hugged Chloe’ and kissed the top of her head.

Lastly, Adam placed his hand on Henri Perrot’s shoulder and held out his hand to his father-in-law.

“Welcome to America, Henri.”

Cautiously, Perrot extended his hand to Adam and his tired eyes brightened. “Merci, Adam.”

Adam squeezed Henri’s hand and shook it firmly.

&&&&&&&&

Two weeks later, Adam sat at his desk penning a letter to his father.

Dear Pa,

Greetings from Boston! I hope that this letter finds you well. Give my greetings to Hoss and Joe also.

I know it has been a very long time since I have written and a lot has happened since then.

Hopefully you got a letter telling you that I was in France for the World Exhibition. It was truly a marvelous experience.

While I was living and working in Paris, I met a wonderful woman, Adrielle. I am afraid it was love at first sight for me. I never quite understood how it could possibly happen when you and Marie talked about it, but now I know. We were married in the summer of ’68. I hope you will be able to meet her and our son, Jonathan, very soon. He is sixteen months old, favors me in looks, and is quite an active boy.

Not sure how much you have heard about what is going on in Europe these days, but things have gotten dicey again in France. We had been living quite happily before some recent changes in the government. I felt the need to return to America as soon as possible and encouraged Adrielle’s family to immigrate. Adrielle’s father, her sister Celeste and husband Jules and their daughter, Sophie, Adrielle’s younger brothers Lucas and Mattieu, and her much younger sister, Chloe’ also joined us. The men have all found work and the children will be in school in another month. I have taken a position with Henry Hobson Richardson, an old school mate who has a very successful architectural firm.

We are all still looking for permanent housing, but please know that we would love to have visitors once we are settled. In the meantime, you can send any correspondence to my work address.

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Your son,

Adam

After signing his name, Adam dipped his quill once more and added the familiar pine tree brand below. He set down the quill and read the letter through before placing it in an envelope. His mind drifted back in time to the Ponderosa. He wondered how long it would be before he heard from his father or brothers. For the first time in years, Adam hoped it would not be long.