Summary:\u00a0 Nothing will stop Virginia City\u2019s school teacher when she has her sight set on a Cartwright.
\nRating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 (9,680 words)<\/p>\n
Abigail Jones’ Diary Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n Abigail Jones’ Diary<\/a> <\/p>\n Abigail Jones\u2019 Diary<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When I saw you in The Mercantile Store I just couldn\u2019t resist buying you.\u00a0 What fun to have somewhere to write down my inner thoughts and keep a record of all the happenings here in Virginia City!\u00a0 Being of a literary inclination as well, I\u2019m sure that my little endeavours to record the things that happen around here will be quite interesting to look back on in years to come, although I really don\u2019t intend for anyone else to read this.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What will be written on these pages are secrets between you and me Dear Diary.\u00a0 My innermost thoughts and my secret yearnings.\u00a0 How romantic!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Speaking of romance, that wonderful specimen of a man Adam Cartwright was in town earlier today.\u00a0 I watched him from across the street as he was loading supplies for The Ponderosa with his brother.\u00a0 He moves so gracefully, that I could have watched him all day.\u00a0 What a man!\u00a0 He invades my thoughts and my dreams at night.\u00a0 One day he will know just what my feelings for him are.\u00a0 One day he will return those feelings and we will make beautiful music together.\u00a0 I yearn for the day when we will come together as one!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It was a difficult day at school today.\u00a0 That young Joseph Cartwright seems bound and determined to make my life a misery lately.\u00a0 Not only does he waste his time away by trying to get out of doing any work whatsoever, but also he thinks it is quite amusing to disrupt everyone else in the class at the same time.\u00a0 It was necessary for me to stand him in the corner again today.\u00a0 Not that I think it does any good, for he just never seems to learn.\u00a0 I\u2019ll have to speak to his father again I fear.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n How can two brothers be so different?\u00a0 Actually three, for Hoss is quite different from the other two as well.\u00a0 I believe that they are only half brothers, so maybe that accounts for it.\u00a0 Whatever it is, I\u2019m sure that my darling Adam would never have behaved like his younger brother does.\u00a0 He would have been a wonderful student.\u00a0 Ah the things I could have taught that man if he\u2019d been under my control!\u00a0 I must stop now Dear Diary, as I am becoming quite heated with the very thought of it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today I visited the Dressmaker\u2019s shop.\u00a0 I\u2019m having a lovely blue dress made with matching hat.\u00a0 I believe that blue is the Cartwright boys\u2019 favourite colour, as so many of the women they have been seen with over the years have always been dressed in it.\u00a0 I am hoping that Adam may notice me in it, and be suitably impressed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ma says that I need to be more assertive with men, but I honestly don\u2019t know how I could be.\u00a0 I make sure that I attend all the social functions that are on offer in the town, and I always have an eye open for a likely prospect.\u00a0 But it just seems like no one can match up to that wonderful specimen of a man –\u00a0 Adam.\u00a0 He has quite spoilt my eye for others I feel Dear Diary.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid if you reach for perfection then it is hard to settle for second best. I\u2019ll have to try and think of a way to orchestrate a meeting between the two of us.\u00a0 This will take some planning!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I think I have the answer!\u00a0 Young Joseph was again playing up today, and when I threatened to speak to his father he informed me that he is away on a business trip.\u00a0 This could well be my chance to speak to Adam.\u00a0 I wrote a note asking him to attend a conference with me regarding young Joseph in his father\u2019s absence.\u00a0 We shall see what happens next!\u00a0 I think I\u2019ll wear my new blue dress to school tomorrow in case he does call.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What a wonderful day it was today!\u00a0 Yes, Adam did call after school to pick up his younger brother.\u00a0 I made sure that I had time of course to sit with him to discuss the boy\u2019s recent behaviour, but I\u2019m afraid it was difficult to keep my mind on it.\u00a0 Those wonderful black eyes of his are just mesmerising up close. He looked at me so intently and with such feeling that it just about took my breath away!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I feel that I quite impressed him with my concern for young Joseph, and he promised to make sure that he did his homework at least.\u00a0 I can tell you Dear Diary that my heart was fluttering as he left the room, and I felt quite faint with the thrill of it all.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What wonders Adam works!\u00a0 Young Joseph did indeed have his homework done today, which is quite an accomplishment.\u00a0 Mind you he was giving me rather dark looks all day, as if he quite resented me speaking to his brother.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I am still quite excited by what happened yesterday. After our meeting Adam and I are at least on speaking terms now, and I must make sure that I continue to make him notice me.\u00a0 I think I\u2019ll have another blue dress made.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today was rather difficult.\u00a0 No school, so I hung around the town hoping to see my darling come in, but unfortunately he didn\u2019t appear.\u00a0 I have put in an order for another blue dress.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today at church I saw him.\u00a0 What a man!\u00a0 Not only is he handsome, but he is religious too.\u00a0 He and his two brothers attend church quite regularly, so I\u2019m sure that I will be able to orchestrate a meeting there each week.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I was so busy organising the choir that I didn\u2019t notice him at first.\u00a0 But when I turned and saw him sitting there my heart leapt with excitement and I gave him a beautiful smile. I\u2019ve been told that my smile is quite fetching.\u00a0 I think he was quite startled at first, for he looked a bit confused. After all Church is a very solemn place.\u00a0 But after a moment he obviously remembered our little interaction and returned the smile.\u00a0 What a wonderful face he has.\u00a0 His eyes just light up and those two little dimples!\u00a0 Well they are just to die for.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It was difficult to keep my thoughts heavenward during the Service I will admit.\u00a0 They just kept straying back to him.\u00a0 He was dressed so beautifully as well, as he is obviously a man with taste.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I also noticed he has a beautiful singing voice.\u00a0 Is there anything this man is not good at? I must try and convince him to join the choir.\u00a0 It would be a wonderful way of seeing him more often as well.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After Church was over I hurried to put the hymnals away and made it outside in record time, but was dismayed to see my darling talking to Jennifer Parkins in the yard.\u00a0 Such a hussy that girl is!\u00a0 Just because she has the Parkins blond hair she thinks she is something special!\u00a0 Always dresses it up in ringlets too, which is quite unbecoming for a young lady.\u00a0 I myself prefer a respectable bun, which is so much more sophisticated.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After watching them for a few moments, I went over and tapped him on the arm.\u00a0 I asked if I could speak to him, and I must admit he looked a bit surprised at the suggestion.\u00a0 After pulling him aside I commented on how improved young Joseph had been after our little talk and complimented him on his dealing with the boy.\u00a0 He was politeness itself as he answered me.\u00a0 Such a courteous man and so concerned for his young brother!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I of course suggested that he join the choir, as I commented on his wonderful singing voice.\u00a0 He was quite touched I believe, and said that he would think about it.\u00a0 Unfortunately he needed to leave quickly, as he had to get his younger brothers home, but I do believe that he would have preferred to stay and talk to me for a while.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I felt quite a bond with him during our conversation.\u00a0 I feel that we are going to have quite a lot in common. I must find out what his interests are so that I can make a point of being interested in the same things.\u00a0 It is very important for a lady to share similar interests with her man.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I\u2019m afraid I was rather vague with the class today, as my mind was still on my encounter with Adam yesterday.\u00a0 Young Joseph took full and utter advantage of it of course, and caused quite a scene when he brought a lizard into the classroom and caused a riot amongst the girls.\u00a0 He spent the afternoon in the corner as usual.\u00a0 I made sure I asked him how long his father would be away for.\u00a0 I want to make the most of dealing with Adam for as long as possible where this young man is concerned.\u00a0 I was very pleased to hear that he won\u2019t be back from San Francisco for at least another two weeks, so things are looking quite hopeful in that department.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I considered asking Adam to come in again, but I think that would be too obvious.\u00a0 So I contented myself with writing to him and mentioning Joseph\u2019s behaviour.\u00a0 I also reminded him of the fact that he would be most welcome in the Choir.\u00a0 I must admit Dear Diary that I am rather hoping that he does.\u00a0 Not only would we come into contact on Sundays, but also I run a practice session each Wednesday night and who knows what could happen over a hymnal?\u00a0 I surely hope that he does join.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It was a wonderful start to the day when I received a note back from my darling man today.\u00a0 It was to thank me for letting him know about young Joseph\u2019s behaviour, but I know that he would have also enjoyed having an excuse to write to me.\u00a0 I feel that he is quite intrigued with me and I must admit that I am a most beguiling woman.\u00a0 I hope that Adam is beginning to feel that.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Unfortunately he doesn\u2019t feel that he has the time to join the choir at the moment.\u00a0 He said it so gracefully too.\u00a0 The manners that man conveys are just delightful.\u00a0 I love a man with good manners.\u00a0 Little courtesies are so important in life.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I won\u2019t give up though!\u00a0 We really need another tenor in the choir, and Adam would be just so right for it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today was rather boring.\u00a0 Young Joseph behaved himself quite well which I feel was unfortunate.\u00a0 To be honest I was hoping for a little indiscretion or two so that I would have an excuse to write to his brother again, but the boy behaved himself impeccably.\u00a0 I must check on the progress of that new blue dress tomorrow.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joseph was back to form again today, and I took great delight in writing again to his brother and requesting that he come to see me.\u00a0 This afternoon I picked up my new blue dress so I\u2019ll be able to wear it tomorrow when he does come to call.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I heard a couple of girls talking about a dance that is to be held on Saturday.\u00a0 I must remember to ask if Adam is going.\u00a0 I have my lovely red dress that I haven\u2019t worn yet.\u00a0 I\u2019ll have to get some blue trim for it to make it look really special.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I was very excited all day today, waiting in anticipation for Adam to come.\u00a0 Young Joseph was quite difficult again, as I feel that he doesn\u2019t appreciated me contacting his brother so much.\u00a0 But as I explained to him, it\u2019s for his own good!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I must admit that I looked quite fetching in my new blue dress.\u00a0 I fastened a couple of blue ribbons in my hair to match and I think the result was quite lovely.\u00a0 I was sure that he would notice it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n My heart was all fluttery as I waited for my darling to appear.\u00a0 When he did I was quite overcome for a moment, and I\u2019m afraid I became a little flustered.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think he noticed it though. We sat and talked about Joseph\u2019s behaviour and I made sure that I sat at an angle so that he could see my hair ribbons well.\u00a0 I did notice him looking at them once or twice and I feel certain that if he had been less shy he might have mentioned them, but the dear man was quite overcome by my charm and became a little tongue-tied.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I made sure he was left in no doubt as to his brother\u2019s recent behaviour, and he assured me that he would deal with the young man in question.\u00a0 Of course I mentioned the Choir again, and made sure he understood just how desperately we need him.\u00a0 He was so courteous and said that he would think about it.\u00a0 I have the feeling that he would like to join, but could be a little shy in showing off his talents.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I took the opportunity of course to mention the dance on Saturday night, and to enquire if he was going.\u00a0 He seemed a little flustered when I mentioned it. Dear man, he was probably a bit embarrassed that I had.\u00a0 I know it\u2019s not seemly for a lady to mention these things, but I just couldn\u2019t help myself on this occasion.\u00a0 He said something about going and when I hinted that he might like to pick me up, he unfortunately heard a noise outside right at that moment and had to check on young Joseph who had been left sitting out there.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The boy was not causing any problem when we did check on him, and was actually quite sulky when I spoke to him.\u00a0 I smiled at Adam to show him that I wasn\u2019t resentful of his behaviour, but he made his brother apologize to me anyway which I thought was rather touching.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As they left I reminded him again of the dance and hinted that I wouldn\u2019t mind him picking me up.\u00a0 He gave me a look that I interpreted to mean that he would be delighted and I was overcome with such a thrill.\u00a0 I am so looking forward to tomorrow night!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I spent today getting organised for the dance tonight.\u00a0 If only men realised what we go through to look our best for them!\u00a0 I was ready well ahead of time and settled down on the front porch swing to wait for my darling to arrive.\u00a0 Well Dear Diary if the truth were known I waited quite a while and began to be quite worried.\u00a0 It seemed as if something had happened to delay my darling man.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Knowing that he wouldn\u2019t be the type of man to stand up a woman I decided that something had definitely gone wrong, and so I decided to wander over to the dance myself and see if anyone there knew about it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Imagine my surprise when I walked into the Hall and saw him talking to Jennifer Parkins! For a moment I couldn\u2019t believe my eyes, and then I realised that of course I must have misunderstood.\u00a0 After all he hadn\u2019t actually said that he would pick me up, and I didn\u2019t want to embarrass him by appearing forward in this respect.\u00a0 I decided to do the lady-like thing and pretend that it hadn\u2019t happened.\u00a0 I know that he would respect me all the more for my discretion.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I positioned myself where I could observe him and noticed that he and Jennifer talked for quite a long while.\u00a0 He was probably trapped with her and being the gentleman that he was didn\u2019t know how to extradite himself.\u00a0 I know that he was probably looking over her shoulder to see if he could find me.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After a while I decided to put him out of his misery and rescue him.\u00a0 I made my way over to them and stopped as if surprised to see them there.\u00a0 I can be quite the actress if I put my mind to it, and I\u2019m sure they really thought I was genuinely surprised to see them.\u00a0 I made a tactful remark about Jennifer\u2019s dress, which did look rather homemade.\u00a0 She in turn commented on my choice of attire.\u00a0 I must admit I had noticed the looks that everyone gave me when I had entered.\u00a0 I know that red and blue is an unusual choice of colour combination, but can be rather striking at times, particularly when combined with my lovely blue eyes.\u00a0 I drew their attention to this fact.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam was rather quiet during this exchange.\u00a0 I feel that his eyes were upon me, drinking in the vision of loveliness that I presented.\u00a0 Darling man!\u00a0 If only he\u2019d known that all the hours of preparing myself were just for him. It was all worth it though as I saw the look in his eyes that could only be described as sheer surprise.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There was an awkward silence when the music began.\u00a0 I know that Adam was longing to ask me to dance, but it must have been very difficult for him standing as he was between two women.\u00a0 He probably felt rather sorry for Jennifer and did the courteous thing by asking her to dance first.\u00a0 As they walked towards the dance floor I felt such a feeling of pride that he would put his own feelings aside and do the gentlemanly thing for her.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She was looking rather dowdy I felt.\u00a0 The homemade dress was not really eye-catching at all and did nothing for her figure.\u00a0 It was also rather low-cut which is so unbecoming on a woman.\u00a0 I much prefer the high neckline that says so much about a woman\u2019s character to a man.\u00a0 Also, her hair was done in those infernal ringlets again.\u00a0 It made her look quite cheap, and I resolved to set her straight about that later.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I must admit they danced quite well together.\u00a0 He was so light on his feet that he could make any partner look good.\u00a0 He is obviously a man of style and grace.\u00a0 I realised in that moment just how alike we are.\u00a0 We both have such an air of refinement about us that it is almost as if we are made for each other.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure he felt it too.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I noticed his eyes on me as I watched them both, and felt sure that he was thinking of me during the whole time they were dancing.\u00a0 I was a little surprised when the music stopped and they didn\u2019t return, but I imagine that he was merely escorting her back to a chair so that she could rest. I waited patiently for him to come back to me, but when it seemed that he was taking an extraordinary amount of time I was forced to seek him out instead.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Mind you, it took some doing!\u00a0 He seemed to have quite disappeared and it took quite some time before I found them sitting outside on the porch.\u00a0 I know he was very pleased to see me and must have quite welcomed the interruption.\u00a0 He was probably looking for an excuse to get away from her.\u00a0 I did notice that as soon as I arrived he said something about getting a drink and left quite abruptly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I was happy to be used as his excuse for leaving, as I realised how difficult it must have been for him to have a conversation with Jennifer. The girl just didn\u2019t seem to know what to say to me at all!\u00a0 I took the opportunity to mention her inappropriate hair and she seemed a little put out when I said it.\u00a0 However I assured her my comments were in her best interests and also took the chance to suggest that in the future she might like to invest in some store bought clothing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She seemed to be speechless at my words, and took a moment to let them sink in.\u00a0 I know that she would have been so grateful to me for my guidance that she just didn\u2019t know how to thank me, so I merely patted her on the arm and told her not to worry about it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When Adam didn\u2019t return I excused myself and went to look for him.\u00a0 I found him talking to his brother Hoss in the corner and he seemed to be quite agitated I must say.\u00a0 He was waving his arms around widely and I do believe I saw him gesturing towards me at one point.\u00a0 I suppose he was just very frustrated about how he could get me alone for a long talk, and I resolved to help him solve the problem.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I must admit to a little untruth here Dear Diary.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid I was a little naughty and pretended to be rather unwell so that he needed to take me outside to get some fresh air.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid I gave him no choice in the matter, but I know that underneath all his objections and suggestions that Hoss could do it, he was immensely pleased that I had taken the initiative.\u00a0 He really is rather sweet when he\u2019s showing his shyness.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As soon as I had him to myself I took the opportunity to let him know in no uncertain terms of my many interests.\u00a0 He was rather quiet while I spoke of my passion for literature and music, although I know for a fact that he is interested in both these topics as well.\u00a0 He was probably stunned to hear of my vast knowledge in these areas, for he looked at me quite overcome at one stage.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I urged him to tell me of his College days, but he was very reluctant to do so. What a bashful and modest man he is!\u00a0 There was an awkward pause in the conversation at this point, and I felt that even though a lady doesn\u2019t usually take the lead in conversations it was up to me to keep things flowing. In the end I had to resort to tell him of my passion for quilting and the patterns I was working on.\u00a0 I know it impressed him, for he was so quiet as I was speaking, almost as if he was hanging on every word. I\u2019m sure I impressed him with my virtues as a homemaker.\u00a0 I believe that it is very important for a woman to show her man just what a good homemaker she can be.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When the music started again I suggested we dance, but unfortunately he was suddenly overcome by a sore leg.\u00a0 He assured me that it was the result of a fall from a horse and not at all serious, but I offered to give it a bit of a rub all the same.\u00a0 It was at that moment that he stood up abruptly and said that he had to go.\u00a0 I must have really helped the leg because I noticed that he didn\u2019t limp one bit as he walked away from me, and felt quite proud of helping him so much.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After he had left I took the opportunity to circulate a bit around the room, as I always try to check out everyone who comes to these dances.\u00a0 The dresses were definitely quite ordinary this time, and if it hadn\u2019t been for my colourful outfit to brighten the place up it would have been rather a boring affair.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A number of people were commenting on Adam\u2019s sudden departure and I filled them in on his sore leg.\u00a0 It was unusual for a Cartwright to leave so early, so it must have really been paining him.\u00a0 There didn\u2019t seem to be much point in staying any longer after that, so I left for an early night.\u00a0 Tomorrow will be church again, and I resolved to look my best for my darling.\u00a0 An early night would give me the beauty sleep that I would need.\u00a0 My dreams will be very sweet tonight, of that I\u2019m sure!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Church today was very interesting.\u00a0 I put a great deal of effort into our hymns and I must say that I quite outdid myself.\u00a0 I took the main solo for myself as I do occasionally in order to show everyone how it should be done correctly, and Rev Alden was very appreciative of my efforts.\u00a0 I could see it in his eyes when I asked him what he thought of it after the service.\u00a0 He actually said that he\u2019d never heard anything like it \u2013 imagine that!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I took the opportunity to take him over to Adam and mention that he was thinking of joining our choir.\u00a0 The look that Adam gave me could only be described as one of sheer astonishment, and I\u2019m sure that he didn\u2019t expect me to say it in front of the Reverend. However, I knew that someone had to speak of his talents, as he is obviously too shy to do it himself.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The Reverend was most interested of course in adding another tenor to our group, and I think that Adam really couldn\u2019t get out of it.\u00a0 He will thank for it later though, as it will give him the opportunity to show our little community just what he is capable of.\u00a0 I made sure that he understood he was expected to attend the Wednesday night practice at my house, and made him promise in front of the Reverend that he would be there.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I walked away quite satisfied that I had done him a great favour.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today was the beginning of another school week, but I\u2019m afraid that my thoughts were elsewhere after the wonderful weekend I have had.\u00a0 The class were very riotous led by that incorrigible young Joseph.\u00a0 I really don\u2019t know how his brother has any patience with him. I certainly don\u2019t!\u00a0 If it wasn\u2019t for the respect I have for his brother I would definitely have given him the sharp end of my tongue that\u2019s for sure.\u00a0 However I held my temper with him and merely kept him in after school to teach him a lesson.\u00a0 I hoped that Adam might come looking for him, but it wasn\u2019t to be.\u00a0 I finally had to let him go home, but warned him that I might have to speak to his brother again if this continues.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A very boring day today.\u00a0 I picked up my new dress, which I think I will wear tomorrow night for Choir practice.\u00a0 It is a lovely shade of dark blue.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I dismissed the children early today, as I needed extra time to get ready for Choir Practice.\u00a0 Just as well I did too, for I don\u2019t think I could have taken the cheekiness from young Joseph for much longer.\u00a0 I actually saw him poke out his tongue at me today, and had to resort to giving him a few slaps with the ruler.\u00a0 He really is a most incorrigible boy!\u00a0 I resolved to speak to his brother about him later that night.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I was ready well and truly before time, and had Ma make her famous pink lemonade and cookies for the event.\u00a0 Normally we don\u2019t go to much trouble, but Ma understands my desire to impress Adam, and only the best will do for a Cartwright after all!\u00a0 She promised that she would make herself scarce when he arrived so that we could get to know each other a little better.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When he did come he was a bit surprised to find that he was the only one there.\u00a0 I explained to him that not all members of the choir in fact came every week, and it seemed like it would be just the two of us this time.\u00a0 To be honest Dear Diary, I had told the other members of the Choir that they weren\u2019t needed this week, as I felt it was important to give Adam my full attention and help him learn the songs individually.\u00a0 I think he was grateful that it was just the two of us, so that he didn\u2019t have to sing in front of anyone else at first.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We got straight into it.\u00a0 I showed him all the songs we were currently doing and ran through quite a few with him.\u00a0 We sat on the settee in the front parlour which was clever on my part, as it\u2019s not very big.\u00a0 We were forced to sit close to each other, and I must say the pressure of his leg on mine gave me cause to experience a few flutters of the heart.\u00a0 He appreciated the cookies and lemonade, and learned all the songs quickly.\u00a0 It was almost as if he didn\u2019t want to waste any time, and he practically said as much.\u00a0 Dear man!\u00a0 So thoughtful!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When he stood up to leave I thought of the problems I had had with Joseph, and asked him to stay a while longer.\u00a0 I swear I heard him sigh as he sat down again.\u00a0 Poor dear!\u00a0 That boy is quite a concern to him, I could see that.\u00a0 I talked at great length about the boy, fixing my eyes on his all the while.\u00a0 He has such beautiful eyes!\u00a0 Very dark and intense.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After I had exhausted the subject of young Joseph I couldn\u2019t think of anything to keep him there any longer, and so our night ended.\u00a0 As I walked him out to his horse I thought for a moment he was going to kiss me, and clutched hold of his arm.\u00a0 It was at that moment I realised that his leg must have still been hurting him, because he became quite off balance and stumbled a little away from me.\u00a0 I held onto him though to steady him and leaned closer to him.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid I was a little forward in my behaviour Dear Diary, and I blush to think of it now.\u00a0 He seemed startled and to his credit restrained himself well.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Gentleman as he is, he was politeness itself as he backed away from me and tipped his hat.\u00a0 I quoted a little Shakespeare at him and know I impressed him, as he looked at me for a full minute without speaking.\u00a0 As he rode off into the night my heart was beating quickly and I found it quite difficult to contain my feelings for him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I am so pleased Dear Diary that we have reached the point where we have an understanding with each other.\u00a0 I think he has finally come to realise that we are made for each other, and our lives are destined to be intertwined.\u00a0 I will sleep tonight content with my thoughts.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today was rather uneventful, and I was still quite excited from the events of last night.\u00a0 At one stage when the class were working quietly I looked up to see young Joseph\u2019s eyes on me as if deep in thought and I smiled at him.\u00a0 He seem a bit embarrassed to have been caught looking at me.\u00a0 I wonder if Adam has been speaking of me at home and the boy has heard something?\u00a0 I do hope not, for I wouldn\u2019t like him to realise the extent of Adam\u2019s feelings for me.\u00a0 It could embarrass the boy further.\u00a0 It would be very difficult for a child to have their brother madly in love with their teacher.\u00a0 I must remember to caution Adam to be somewhat discreet.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joseph was back again to his worst today.\u00a0 I had to discipline him again with a few slaps on the hand, and when I mentioned contacting his brother again the boy actually told me that his brother wouldn\u2019t come to see me anymore.\u00a0 Imagine the cheek of it!\u00a0 Well I certainly put him in his place and promptly wrote another letter requesting that he does.\u00a0 As the weekend is coming up I imagine I\u2019ll have to wait until Monday for this to happen, but in the meantime of course there is always Church on Sunday to look forward to.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today being Saturday, I had no intention of running into my lovely man, but did I get a shock when I saw him this afternoon in town!\u00a0 He was waiting near the Stage Office for his father who was apparently due back today from San Francisco.\u00a0 It was strange, but when I saw him from across the street and waved he didn\u2019t really see me at first.\u00a0 By the time I had made it across the street he had actually walked off a way and I had to search until I found him inside the Stage Office.\u00a0 The silly thing was crouched down behind the counter.\u00a0 So sweet of him to help out by looking for something that had obviously been dropped on the floor.\u00a0 I offered to help too, but he gave me a rather strange smile and told me not to bother.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I offered to wait with him until the stage got in, but he wouldn\u2019t hear of it.\u00a0 He urged me to leave and go home \u2013 such a dear thing he is to be so considerate of me standing in the sun like that!\u00a0 I assured him that I was fine, and took the opportunity to tell him of my plans for some future hymns we might learn for the Choir.\u00a0 I suggested perhaps a duet for the two of us.\u00a0 I feel that our voices would just be heavenly together as they are both very fine and seem to blend well together.\u00a0 Of course it would mean some extra practices for just the two of us, but I am more than willing to give the time.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The darling is so shy about his talent that he became quite agitated at the suggestion, but I assured him that I would do whatever it takes to help him learn the hymns.\u00a0 He is so sweet and shy about his wonderful voice.\u00a0 I love a modest man!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n At that moment the stage appeared and I felt it best to leave him to greet his father.\u00a0 I am not one for pushing myself on people, and pride myself on knowing when to tactfully step away.\u00a0 I\u2019m very good like that!\u00a0 I\u2019m really a people person, and very intuitive.\u00a0 I could sense that Adam wanted some time alone with his father, and so I gave it to them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today my darling was at the Service as usual.\u00a0 Unfortunately he didn\u2019t think he was ready to sing with the choir, and in spite of me urging him to sing with us, he declined.\u00a0 I really need to work on that man\u2019s self esteem!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I really sang well today, and I\u2019m sure everyone was impressed.\u00a0 It makes me feel wonderful to think that I\u2019m able to share my gift with the community in this way.\u00a0 The Reverend actually asked me if I had considered stepping down from my position as head of the choir for while, as he felt that I should save my voice for special occasions and not sing every week. What a dear sweet man to think of me like that.\u00a0 I told him of course that I wouldn\u2019t hear of it, and that he can rest assured that he has me to sing every week for as long as I\u2019m needed.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure I set his mind at rest!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After the Service was over I went to look for my darling, but strangely he had already left.\u00a0 His family was still there though, and I took a moment to speak to Mr Cartwright about Joseph.\u00a0 He assured me that he would come in tomorrow to speak about his son\u2019s behaviour.\u00a0 I suggested that it might be better for Adam to come instead, seeing as how he had been so involved during the last few weeks, but Mr Cartwright assured me that he would take over disciplining Joseph now.\u00a0 Joseph didn\u2019t look too happy about that remark!\u00a0 Perhaps with his father back he will improve?\u00a0 I certainly hope so.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Everyone was abuzz with the news of the picnic to take place after next Sunday\u2019s Service.\u00a0 I had hoped that Adam and I could have made our plans to attend together, but obviously we will need to firm up our arrangements during the week.\u00a0 I will pack an extra special picnic basket to tempt him.\u00a0 A woman needs to show her man that she is adept in the culinary arts, as it is so important to her future worthiness as a wife.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I\u2019m afraid I\u2019m being a little bold in thinking that way, but my darling is obviously so enraptured with me that I must confess it has crossed my mind.\u00a0 To be mistress of The Ponderosa would be a dream come true for me!\u00a0 I wonder if he\u2019s mentioned it to his father yet?<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today was rather uneventful, except that Mr Cartwright came to see me as promised about Joseph.\u00a0 I know where Adam gets his good looks and charm from, as his father is certainly a striking man as well.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n After we had had finished speaking about Joseph I enquired about Adam\u2019s health as well.\u00a0 I mentioned his hurt leg to his father, but strangely he didn\u2019t seem to know anything about it.\u00a0 Dear unselfish man!\u00a0 He obviously didn\u2019t want his family to be concerned about him. I hinted at our relationship to Mr Cartwright, but I know that I was very discreet about it.\u00a0 Still, I do think it is time that we started to give him an indication of our true feelings for each other.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We live in a small town after all, and people will begin to gossip soon about the two of us keeping company.\u00a0 We must avoid scandal at any cost, so I do feel it is best to be as open as possible about our relationship together.\u00a0 I think his father had a bit of a shock when I hinted at it, but I\u2019m sure that Adam will set him straight about it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I do believe that young Joseph doesn\u2019t like me very much.\u00a0 His behaviour today was impeccable and I believe that his father\u2019s return has had something to do with that, but I caught him several times today giving me quite a glare when he thought I wasn\u2019t looking at him.\u00a0 I certainly hope this doesn\u2019t continue, for with my deepening relationship with his brother it could become quite awkward.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n I will have to be careful how I treat the child in future.\u00a0 I tried to get off on the right foot with him today, but he resisted all my advances.\u00a0 I was forced to keep him in at recess and explain to him that I was being quite hard on him in order to help him, but I don\u2019t think he really believed me.\u00a0 I took the opportunity to ask him a little about his brother and his interests, but the boy was quite surly towards me and practically told me it was none of my business.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Silly young thing just doesn\u2019t realise the extent of my relationship with his brother.\u00a0 At least my mind is at rest that Adam has been extremely discreet about it.\u00a0 When I do eventually become part of that family I will have to make sure that Joseph knows the correct way to behave.\u00a0 It is obvious that without a woman\u2019s guidance he has become rather wild, and I hope that I could fill that gap in his life.\u00a0 A positive female role model could only help the poor child, and I know that he could get none better than me.\u00a0 Well, time will tell.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I have been quite anxious all day, as tonight was Choir Practice again.\u00a0 I knew that Adam would want to discuss our plans for the picnic on Sunday when we met, so imagine my surprise when Joseph handed me a letter today from his brother to tell me that he wouldn\u2019t be able to attend.\u00a0 It seems that he is otherwise occupied.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Strange that he didn\u2019t say how, and when I asked Joseph about it he gave quite a funny look and merely shrugged his shoulders.\u00a0 When I cautioned him about his bad manners he merely looked at me in silence.\u00a0 Really, that boy needs a woman\u2019s discipline!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n My poor darling!\u00a0 I hope he isn\u2019t ill!\u00a0 Perhaps they are keeping it from the boy so as not to upset him?\u00a0 I must make enquiries about it around town.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n No one seemed to know what is wrong with Adam.\u00a0 I made several enquiries about him, and a couple of people said that they had actually seen him last night drinking in the Saloon.\u00a0 I know that couldn\u2019t possibly be true, as my darling would never frequent a place like that.\u00a0 The demon alcohol is something that I know he would never be tempted with.\u00a0 Apart from the fact that those Saloon places are places for certain jezebels to air their common ways and have men ogle them! No, my darling would never have been seen there and I\u2019m sure they were mistaken.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I do hope he is all right!\u00a0 I am getting a little anxious about the picnic on Sunday, as we haven\u2019t yet made our plans.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Still no word from Adam.\u00a0 I expected that Joseph might have had a letter for me again today, but I was sorely disappointed.\u00a0 Nevertheless I am keeping myself busy with the preparations, and have begun to plan the menu for our picnic basket.\u00a0 I will need to air my new blue dress tomorrow and be sure to iron my ribbons that match.\u00a0 I expect to look my best for my darling.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As today is Saturday, I thought my darling might have been in town to collect supplies, but even though I waited around the Mercantile all morning he didn\u2019t appear. His brother Hoss did however, and I took the opportunity to question him about Adam\u2019s health.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He seemed to be rather vague about it, but then everyone knows that Hoss is extremely shy with women.\u00a0 Someone of my outstanding beauty and charm would certainly have intimidated him, and even though I was as gentle as possible with him I know he would have been very shy with me.\u00a0 He did tell me, however, that his brother was not coming into town all day.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I resolved to take the bull by the horns so to speak and go to see him.\u00a0 I really couldn\u2019t think of any excuse to do so, but simply gathered up the hymns that we would be singing tomorrow and took them to him for him to practice.\u00a0 I was rather pleased with my little excuse, and hoped that he wouldn\u2019t see through it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I must say I think he got somewhat of a shock when I appeared on the doorstep.\u00a0 His father was so courteous and polite, as was their cook Hop Sing.\u00a0 They greeted me most warmly and offered me afternoon tea, which I most graciously accepted.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joseph, I fear, was not so pleased to see me.\u00a0 He mumbled something about doing his chores which I could see quite amazed his father, and disappeared.\u00a0 That boy will certainly feel the sharp end of my tongue when I become part of The Ponderosa!\u00a0 A strong woman\u2019s hand is what he needs!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam himself was speechless when I arrived.\u00a0 The darling could hardly say a word and merely looked at me with his mouth open.\u00a0 Such a lovely surprise he must have had!\u00a0 I gave him the music and suggested that we have a little practice together, but he told me quite curtly that he was capable of learning them by himself.\u00a0 It seems that his self-esteem is improving after all!\u00a0 I\u2019m so glad that I am able to help him in this way!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It wasn\u2019t ling before Hoss reminded my darling of the work they had to do.\u00a0 I could see he was most anxious to get away to it, and so I was determined not to keep him any longer than was necessary. A hard-working man is so to be admired!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n My enquiries about his health were met with silence, and I have a little suspicion that I may have put my foot into it.\u00a0 I hope I didn\u2019t embarrass him when I mention it, but I must confess that I had been rather anxious about him.\u00a0 He seemed to be very hesitant to mention it in front of his father, so I let the subject drop.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As he left I also mentioned my intention to go, and dropped what I felt was a very subtle hint about tomorrow\u2019s picnic on the way out.\u00a0 He actually didn\u2019t answer me, but I knew that he might have been a bit embarrassed about it in front of his family, so I was once again my discreet self and didn\u2019t push the matter.\u00a0 We gave each other a knowing look that I\u2019m sure went unnoticed by the others, and I came away secure in the knowledge that I would be there for him in the morning.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Diary,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I\u2019m afraid it was difficult to contain myself during the Service today, as thoughts of the picnic kept entering my head.\u00a0 I pictured myself in a secluded spot with my darling, and visions of a wonderful kiss kept flashing in front of my eyes.\u00a0 I was sure that today would be the day when we would take our relationship to a new level.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I really surpassed myself today with the singing, and at one stage felt everyone else stop just so that they could listen to me.\u00a0 Dear things!\u00a0 I actually noticed a couple of them with tears in their eyes, they were so overcome by it all.\u00a0 I really feel that my voice is improving with all the extra practice I have been putting in.\u00a0 I must remember to mention to the Reverend about the duet idea with Adam, as I\u2019m sure he would be most keen for it to happen.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Just when I thought my darling was getting over his shyness with his singing, he went all modest again on me today.\u00a0 I practically had to drag him to the front of the congregation to make him join in, but eventually he did.\u00a0 I must confess I can be a tad determined when I want to be, and I am certainly determined that his voice will shine out for all to hear. I must say he didn\u2019t look too pleased about it, but I\u2019m very confident that his shyness will pass.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Jennifer Parkins was there in the congregation today.\u00a0 Really, you would think that the girl would have taken notice of my little pieces of advice last week, but it seems as though she hasn\u2019t.\u00a0 Her dress was once again rather low-cut, and far too unsuitable for church.\u00a0 And those ringlets!\u00a0 I made sure that she felt quite uncomfortable by glaring at her throughout the ceremony.\u00a0 Really she should have had more sense!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I felt justifiably proud of my appearance today.\u00a0 My lovely new dress was very fetching, and the blue ribbons just set it off to perfection.\u00a0 I felt everyone looking at me as well they night, for it truly was a stunning outfit. I don\u2019t believe in doing things by halves and had gone all out with my appearance today.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure my darling noticed, and beamed proudly for me as I basked in everyone\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Straight after the Service I hurried home to get my picnic basket. It was very heavy, as I had made sure that I had included all his favourites.\u00a0 I had taken the opportunity to ask Hop Sing yesterday what he liked, and he had given me quite a few hints about what to make.\u00a0 I hope my darling didn\u2019t hear me when I asked, as I was hoping to have quite a few surprises for him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When I arrived at the picnic grounds I was disappointed to see him already sitting with his family eating, but I might have known that he wouldn\u2019t abandon them straight away.\u00a0 Dear unselfish man!\u00a0 Always so considerate of others.\u00a0 I made sure that I positioned myself near enough so that he could see me, but far enough away so that he could have his privacy with his family.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He mustn\u2019t have noticed me at first, for he moved and sat with his back towards me.\u00a0 Poor thing missed a wonderful opportunity to look at me in my finery without giving others the opportunity to gossip about it, but then he is the epitome of discretion after all!\u00a0 Joseph noticed me straight away and scowled at me as he chewed his sandwich.\u00a0 That boy!\u00a0 I am really beginning to take quite a dislike to him I fear.\u00a0 The sooner I get him under control the better I think.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I tried not to eat too much, as I always pride myself on my lady-like manners and also wanted to save some choice titbits for my darling, but I\u2019m afraid my hunger got the better of me and I began to tuck into the feast I had prepared.\u00a0 In fact so engrossed was I in eating that I missed my darling when he left the area, and when I looked over again he was gone!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I quickly packed up the remaining food and began to search for him.\u00a0 No mean feat I can assure you!\u00a0 That man seemed to have quite disappeared from the face of the earth, and it wasn\u2019t until I heard a group of children giggling that I saw him siting under the branches of a large willow tree, the object of their attentions.\u00a0 I quickly shooed the children away and walked in that direction.\u00a0 Imagine my surprise when I noticed that he wasn\u2019t alone!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Jennifer Parkins was with him, and he had his arm around her.\u00a0 She must have been quite upset over something, as he was holding her close and whispering something into her ear.\u00a0 I came closer to hear what was being said.\u00a0 I pride myself on being a very discreet person and would never stoop to eavesdropping, but I felt that if the girl was upset over something then maybe I would be able to help.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Thankfully, I heard not the sound of tears, but laughter instead.\u00a0 Whatever had been her problem, my darling had been able to turn her mood around very quickly.\u00a0 Dear sweet man \u2013 such a help to others!\u00a0 Nevertheless I felt that Jennifer might still need a woman\u2019s shoulder, and so I quickly made my presence felt.\u00a0 They were so surprised when I popped out from behind the tree that they both stared at me for a full minute.\u00a0 I sensed their uncertainty with the situation, and felt a little embarrassment on Jennifer\u2019s part.\u00a0 Of course the poor girl didn\u2019t want everyone to know what her problem was, and I assured her that I would be the soul of discretion about it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It was at that moment that things took a strange turn.\u00a0 Jennifer practically leapt to her feet and began shouting at me to go away, and I sensed that she was really losing control of herself.\u00a0 Poor girl!\u00a0 She did come from quite an unbalanced family, and couldn\u2019t really be responsible for acting like that, but oh dear the things she said!\u00a0 I blush to think of them even now.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n She seemed to be under the impression that I was disturbing them, and mentioned how I wasn\u2019t wanted when she and Adam were together.\u00a0 I found it hard to believe Dear Diary, but I had the distinct impression that she felt that there was something between them. Poor delusional girl! I felt that she needed to be snapped into reality quickly, so I did the only thing I felt I could.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I stepped forward and gave her a strong push backwards.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t realise that it was as hard as it turned out to be though, and she actually landed on her bottom in the lake behind her.\u00a0 The three of us were still for moment, all transfixed at what had happened.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid my darling must have felt that I acted a bit in haste, because he gave me what could only be described as a disappointed look and reached over to help Jennifer to her feet.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The poor girl really lost control at that moment, and to be honest I was rather taken aback by her lunging toward me.\u00a0 Adam held onto her of course for he couldn\u2019t have borne to see me upset in any way, but she struggled in his arms and continued to shout all sorts of unkind things to me.\u00a0 I\u2019m afraid that she really showed her common side at this point, and I was rather embarrassed for her.\u00a0 I held my head high and tried to act like a lady in spite of it all, but she was becoming rather unbalanced at this point, and I was glad when Adam began to drag her away.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A small crowd had gathered around us by this time, and I was most embarrassed for Jennifer.\u00a0 Her outburst had only shown her up in a bad light, but then as I commented to those around me \u2013 blood will always tell!\u00a0 They must have agreed with me as they hurried away quickly so as not to cause any more of a scene than was necessary.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Poor darling Adam!\u00a0 Of course now he had felt obligated to take the girl home.\u00a0 What else could he do after all?\u00a0 I felt for him \u2013 I really did.\u00a0 His day had been ruined by her selfishness and I resolved to try and at least salvage some of it for him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He must have felt for me as well.\u00a0 He would have hated for me to be embarrassed in this way, and I wanted to make sure that he knew I was all right.\u00a0 As I made my way across the field, I saw Joseph and his young friends clustered together.\u00a0 I watched them suspiciously from afar, and swear that they were talking about me!\u00a0 I had the distinct feeling that they may have been commenting on the incident, and I sincerely hoped not.\u00a0 Children should never witness such lack of control on the part of adults.\u00a0 It doesn\u2019t do them any good to see poor role models like that!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I waited back in my picnic spot for Adam to return, but he seemed to be taking an extraordinary amount of time doing so.\u00a0 After a while I wandered over to Mr Cartwright and enquired if he knew how long Adam would be.\u00a0 Dear man that he is obviously didn\u2019t want me to be troubled about the delay, so he assured me that I wasn\u2019t to wait.\u00a0 I told him it wasn\u2019t any bother, but I don\u2019t think that he believed me.\u00a0 He really urged me to leave, in fact he was kindness itself!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I thought perhaps he was right. After all, Adam may have wished to go straight home and not be any more embarrassed than he already obviously had been.\u00a0 So I decided to go home after all.\u00a0 It occurred to me that I could go via Jennifer\u2019s house, just to see if he were still there.\u00a0 Sure enough, his horse was tied outside.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I wondered whether or not to stay and wait for him, but felt at this point to move on.\u00a0 After all, my strong intuition was telling me that he would probably be looking for an excuse to leave her right about now, and if she saw me outside then she could lose her dignity again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n It troubles me, Dear diary, that this girl feels that my darling is interested in her.\u00a0 I cannot believe that he has given her the slightest indication that he is, and can only surmise that she has misinterpreted his innocent words and actions towards her. Some people can be so slow to pick up on signals, even when they are very clear to everyone else around them.\u00a0 I cannot help but feel pity for her, even though she is a common little thing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As I rest my head tonight I will make a resolution that my darling should never have to go through that kind of embarrassment again.\u00a0 I will everything in my power to keep such things away from him in the future, even if it means I must become a little possessive of him.\u00a0 My darling will be safe in my care!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I will rest tonight secure in the knowledge that no matter what it takes I will defend my man against any who try to hurt him.\u00a0 I do believe that it is time for our relationship to become more public, so starting tomorrow I will perhaps start a little rumour about us.\u00a0 Ordinarily I don\u2019t believe in rumours of course, and I am the soul of discretion when it comes to gossip. But there are times when it can be very useful, and I do believe that this is one of those times.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Rest assured my love that no one will come between us again.\u00a0 I will make very sure that everyone in town is left with the very strong impression that we are now an item.\u00a0 I know that you will thank me for taking the burden off your shoulders.\u00a0 I know how shy you are about these things.\u00a0 Starting tomorrow everyone in Virginia City will be talking about us.\u00a0 And that common Jennifer Parkins will know for sure that she has no chance with you.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Tomorrow is the beginning of another school week, so I need to get to bed early for my beauty sleep.\u00a0 So goodnight Dear Diary, until tomorrow!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\nAbigail Jones’ Diary: The Sequel<\/a><\/p>\n
\nThe End<\/h1>\n