bosom companion and dearest friend. When they moved to Oregon, only then did they learn the laws were against them. Alma could be beaten and forced to depart against her will if she were discovered. Mrs. Weaver and her husband lived quietly in the country and hid Alma’s presence from the world. When Mr. Weaver died and Mrs. Weaver moved here, she hid Alma so that she wouldn’t be forced to live without her. I will not see them separated, and if you are to live here, you must agree to say nothing of Alma’s existence and protect her as we have all agreed to do.”
The two women took their seats at the table and stared at the Cliftons as if their life or death would be decided by the sisters.
Bedelia’s stern expression remained as she sized up the matter. She looked at Nancy. “Why would anyone feel the need to separate two such dear friends? Sister and I have no complaint in the matter, nor will we. The very thought of this woman receiving a beating sickens my heart.” She turned back to Alma. “I am Bedelia Clifton, and this is my sister, Cornelia. We will keep your secret.”
Faith had liked Bedelia since their first meeting, but at this moment she could honestly say she felt love for the spinster. Bedelia was so matter-of-fact with her conclusion, so willing to accept Alma and protect her, that Faith wanted to hug her. It took all her restraint to keep from doing exactly that.
“Thank you both,” Nancy said, smiling. “We weren’t sure how you would feel, and since we thought you were only staying a short time, we didn’t think it necessary to tell you about the situation.”
“Well, it certainly explains how Virginia knew there had been a thief in the house that day we were all in church and your book was taken,” Bedelia said.
Nancy nodded. “I hadn’t even thought of that, but of course you’re right.”
“I remember that. Alma was scared half out of her mind,” Virginia said, taking up her napkin.
The black woman nodded. “I sure was. A man just came into the house, bold as you please. He didn’t seem to think anybody was home, ’cause he was makin’ enough noise to wake the dead. I knew I needed to hide, but could hear him tearin’ through things. I figured he’d look in the blanket box, so I hid behind the drapes. Sure enough, he come into the room and went first thing to the box. I was shakin’ so hard, I figured he could see the drapes movin’, but if he did, he never paid it any attention. It was terrifyin’.”
“I can well imagine,” Bedelia replied. “Just the thought of what might have happened is most alarming.”
“Well, we’re glad it’s behind us now.” Nancy shifted in her seat and put a hand atop her abdomen. “I’m glad you accept Alma. She is a dear woman and has become our friend, just as you and Cornelia are.”
Bedelia began slicing her pancakes, and the conversation moved from the continued repairs of storm damage and to spring planting.
“I believe a garden would be a good thing to have,” Mimi began. “Since the yard has been damaged anyway, why not go ahead and plow up a large portion in the back, and we can plant vegetables and berries. It will help feed us, and frankly, I find gardening relaxing.”
“As do I,” Mrs. Weaver said, nodding. “Alma and I both enjoy it. However, we could hardly allow Alma outside.”
Nancy considered this for a moment. “I think a garden would be perfect. I’ll speak to Seth about plowing up a nice big plot. If he agrees, then we’ll do it.”
They were nearly finished with breakfast when a knock sounded at the front door. Nancy rose and excused herself despite Bedelia’s protest that she could answer on her behalf. While Nancy headed to the front door, Alma hurried to the back stairs and made her way to her room.
When Nancy returned, Gerome Berkshire trailed behind her like a well-trained puppy.
“Faith, Mr. Berkshire would like to speak with you.” Nancy reclaimed her place at the table.
Faith dabbed her napkin to her lips. “I can’t believe you allowed him in the house after all his threats.”
“I’ve also come to beg your forgiveness, Nancy. I’ve turned over a new leaf. I am not the man I once was,” Berkshire declared. “I am even working with the government to help secure information against my former associates.” He