Beginning , Section II, Section III

Chapter Five:

Posted on Sunday, 8 May 2005

For reasons he couldn’t exactly define, but certainly as part of a desire to fill his life full of new people, Frederick Wentworth found himself knocking on Charles Musgrove’s door in Liddell Hall the next afternoon. He was relieved when Charles appeared at the door, with a broad smile on his face.

“Frederick, wasn’t it? How delightful to see you, please come in. It’s not large, but it’s home.” He held the door open, and ushered Frederick in.

“Sorry to bother you,” said Fred, glancing at the open notebooks on Charles’ desk.

“It’s no bother,” said Charles. “I was just looking over some notes to give Anne from a class I was in last year. She’s another American student, I told you about her, I think.”

“Yes.”

“Anyway, how’re things?”

“I think everything is going well. I just thought I’d look you up since I was in the area.”

“I’m glad you did, excellent,” Charles replied, affably. “I say, have you eaten? Mary and I were going to head down to the White Hart shortly, would you like to join us?”

“I don’t know...” started Frederick, recalling that Mary was linked to the mysterious Anne. He broke off as someone knocked on the door and Charles went to open it.

Mary came in. “Charles, I know I’m a little early, but I just couldn’t... Fred! It was Fred, wasn’t it?”

“Yes,” said Fred. “Mary?”

“That’s me,” she said. “Nice to see you again.”

“I was just inviting him to come along with us to the White Hart,” said Charles.

“Oh, please do,” said Mary. She’d thrown in her lot with Charles, who was genuinely sweet, but she wasn’t adverse to adding a highly attractive man to the party.

“I don’t want to intrude...” began Frederick once more.

“You won’t be. I insist you come. Anne’s out with the girls, ot else I’d say let’s take all of them and have an afternoon of it. You won’t be in the way, let’s have a nice chat, I love meeting fellow countrymen.”

“If you put it that way, I’ll be happy to,” said Frederick, glad to put off a meeting with the girl whom he increasingly feared might be the one he couldn’t bear to see again.

“Awesome,” said Mary. “I’ll just grab my jacket.”

“We’ll come with you,” said Charles. “This way, Fred.” Frederick followed Charles and Mary from the room and down the hall, towards Mary’s room. Frederick checked himself a moment as he caught sight of the printed name above Mary’s on the door. Anne Elliot. She was here, Anne, after all these years, was so close to him. He didn’t know whether to be overjoyed or angry. Part of him wanted to see if she was the same, if she had regrets, and part of him wanted her to suffer as he had suffered.

“You can come in,” said Mary. Frederick noticed that he was the only one still in the hall, and forced himself to enter the sanctum. He’d never been in a room that belonged to Anne before, and despite himself he was curious to see what the room could tell him about her.

Anne’s simple elegance was evident throughout the room, and her bed was neatly made, with a blanket folded tidily at the bottom. Her side of the room was in sharp contrast to Mary’s which was as untidy as the scouts would allow it. There were a few wall hangings, and Frederick found himself drawn to a small bulletin board covered with photographs. He recognized Anne’s sister, Elizabeth, and her friend Susan. He assumed that the old picture of two adults and a very young Anne was of her father, and her deceased mother. He passed over these, however, drawn to two pictures pinned up side by side. One he knew quite well, a photograph he’d taken himself, during those few weeks four years ago. Anne was smiling, just as he remembered her best, with that shy smile of hers, and that happy glow to her face, with stars in her eyes. She looked so young and fresh and merry. That bloom had faded, though, he saw, from the second picture. She still had the same eyes, rimmed by thick, beautiful lashes, but the face was thinner, and the expression a little withdrawn. She was also smiling in this picture, but there were small lines in her forehead that he didn’t remember being there before. Her hair was longer than it had been when he’d known her, and she looked thinner. He found himself hoping that she was taking care of herself, then checked himself. Anne Elliot had separated herself from him, and thus they no longer were anything to each other. He was at Uppercross to learn and experience new things, and he intended to use his opportunities.

“That’s Anne,” said Mary, breaking his reverie.

“Yes,” said Frederick. He wondered if he should mention that he had known her, and decided to let it come out at another point. In any case, Charles and Mary were ready to leave. He gratefully followed them out of the room.

The White Hart was crowded when the three arrived, full of students eager to grab a little refreshment before late afternoon activities. Mary frowned, looking around for a vacant table.

“I didn’t expect there to be so many people here,” she said. “Should we go somewhere else?”

“The Arms is closed for a private party,” said a student sitting nearby. “I think that is why there are so many people here.”

“Makes sense,” said Frederick.

“Look, there’s Hetty and Louisa,” said Charles, pointing. Frederick turned around slowly, fearing to see the person he’d been told was out with those two. But she wasn’t there. The two girls were clearly alone, and he let his gaze fall on their faces, instead of the empty seats beside them. Both were attractive girls, one curvy and blonde, the other slender and dark. Each smiled at Charles, as the group approached the table.

“Hetty, Lou,” said Charles, by way of greeting. “Can we invade?”

“Please do,” said Louisa, looking Frederick up and down.

“This is Fred, he and Charles met last night,” said Mary, sitting herself down beside Hetty. Charles took the seat beside her, and Frederick found himself sitting next to Louisa.

“Frederick, my cousin Hetty, and her roommate Louisa. Hetty, Lou, this is Frederick, as Mary said. Another American.”

“The Americans are so charming this year,” said Hetty. “Last year’s lot were horribly annoying.”

“Agreed,” said Louisa, shutting her eyes. “Remember that awful girl we had living next door to us last year?”

“Lucy, was it? Lord, yes. Conceited little prick. Always bringing men home at the most inconvenient times, and then shouting at them.”

“Very inconsiderate,” said Louisa, drily.

“I promise that I won’t bring men home at odd hours, and I rarely shout,” said Frederick solemnly. “Though if I did, I doubt that you could hear it from Liddell. I’m in St. Alban’s.”

“Stuffy place,” said Hetty, with a snort.

“I’m beginning to think that myself,” said Frederick. “Which must be why I’ve crashed Charles’ acquaintance again so soon after meeting him.”

“Where did you meet, then?” asked Hetty.

“Oh yes,” added Louisa. “We’ve all heard the story about how Charles met Anne and Mary here, and it was love at first sight. Where did he pick you up?”

“That dance last night.”

“Funny, I didn’t see you there,” said Hetty.

“You were absorbed with Hayter,” said Louisa.

“That’s right,” said Hetty, cheerfully. “Dear boy.”

“What are you studying?” asked Louisa, turning her lovely face to study Frederick’s features.

“Economics,” said Frederick.

“As am I,” said Louisa, with delight. “What classes are you taking, and how could I have missed seeing you?”

“I’m mostly taking courses from Professor Lee,” said Frederick. “You look vaguely familiar, are you in one, as well?”

“Yes. The European Union course.”

“You sit in the front, and interrupt?”

“What a ghastly way to remember me, but yes. He’s so tedious, but such a darling.”

“I came to my program late, and have consequently been sitting in the back row.”

“How frightful, with all the little asses who sleep through the lecture? I insist you join me in front.” Louisa was interrupted by the arrival of a dish of buttered toast, to which she fell with energy. The server looked at the newcomers expectantly, and they ordered a rough tea.

“I can’t get over the charmingness of having a little meal in the late afternoon like this. It’s fabulous,” said Mary. “Anne and I have it as often as we can. By the way, wasn’t she with you?”

“Oh, she had to do something or other, do you remember what?” asked Hetty.

“Not at all,” said Louisa.

“Oh well,” said Mary. “Oooh, grub’s up. Dig in fellas.”

“Where are we going to dinner?” asked Anne, looking up from her computer as Mary came in, a few days after her tea at the White Hart.

“Cosimo’s. It’s that lovely little Italian place by the post office.”

“I’ve passed it before. All right, who else is going? The girls?”

“You, me, Charles, Louisa, Hetty, Dillon and Heather, Peter, George and Charles’ new friend Fred. Nice and cozy, excellent food, and then we’ll hit the Almond for drinks.”

“George Sunderland? Right. And Fred?” asked Anne. “I don’t think we’ve met.”

“Wentworth. He’s pretty hot. I think Louisa wants to make a conquest, though Hetty actually seemed interested too. He’d be much better for her than Divinity Hayter, even if he is a sweet young man. Anyway, you’ll have fun. It’s time you stopped working quite so hard, dear.”

“What’s dress,” said Anne, feeling that the world had just spun out of control.

“Semiformal. Dressy, anyway. I mean, we are going out.”

“All right,” said Anne.

“Wear the gray skirt, it brings out your eyes,” advised Mary. She was herself rummaging in her wardrobe, casting garments around. “Hey, what did I do with that red...” she broke off as the telephone rings. “Ugh, that had better not be Peter calling off. Hayter’s out of town and I wanted even numbers... can you get it?” Anne reached over to the telephone, and lifted the receiver, holding it under her smooth cheek as she continued typing at the computer.

“Hello? Oh!” She listened intently, and Mary turned around, an inquisitive look on her face. She hoped it wasn’t going to ruin things at her dinner party, she liked playing social organizer and didn’t appreciate problems.

“Is it urgent? No, it’s fine. Honestly. There’s a bus in about fifteen minutes, I’ll be there soon. I’ll talk to you then. Yes. Bye.”

“What’s up?” asked Mary.

“Looks like I’ll have to miss out, I’m sorry. Eleni, the girl in my tutorial from Poughkeepsie was just in a car accident, and she can’t find her roommate, and she wants company at the hospital. I’m really sorry, but I think she needs me more.”

“That’s awful! Oh my gosh, is she all right?”

“She could talk to me on the phone, but it sounds like she might have broken her collarbone as well as her leg, and I think she could use a friendly face.”

“Go, definitely. Do you think I should come with you?”

“No, no, go to your party. I’ll be fine.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Have a wonderful time.”

“I will.”

“I’d better get going if I’m going to catch that bus. I’ll see you either later tonight or tomorrow morning.”

“Right. I hope she’s okay.”

“Well, I’m out,” said Anne, shutting off her computer and throwing on a coat. She threw a small messenger bag over her shoulder, while slipping a few items into it. “I’ll have my cell if you need me.” She went out the door, and walked briskly down the hall. Mary stood and stared at her empty chair.

“So scary,” she said to no one, knowing inside that she’d be terrified if anything happened to her while she was studying abroad, thousands of miles away from her family. The phone rang again. Mary picked it up quickly.

“Peter? Yes, it’s me. You can’t come? Such a shame. You’d better make it up to all of us later, yes, we’ll be at the Almond later... ten o’clock, I’d guess. Awesome. I can’t wait to meet her. All right, ciao.” Well, at least the numbers would be even now.

“Where’s Anne?” asked Charles, as he arrived at the room to escort Mary to the restaurant. “With the girls?”

“A friend of hers was in an accident, and she’s gone off to the hospital to keep her company.”

“Hospital?”

“Yes. She told us to go on and have fun without her.”

“Very well,” said Charles. “You look lovely,” he added, taking in Mary’s outfit. Hetty’s taste had certainly helped Mary improve her looks through her wardrobe.

“Thank you,” said Mary, cheerfully. “You don’t look bad yourself. Come, let’s not keep them all waiting.”

When they arrived the others, sans Frederick, asked about Anne.

“A friend has had an accident, and she’s off being a guardian angel,” explained Mary. “She says to have fun. So I expect you all to have fun.”

Frederick smiled, a little relieved. Ever since Charles had mentioned the guest list, he’d been on edge, anticipating the meeting with Anne. Now it was thankfully delayed.

“I can’t believe you two haven’t met yet,” said Louisa, coming up beside him. “She’s the sweetest girl I’ve ever met.”

“No bringing men home at odd hours and shouting at them?” asked Frederick, in a slightly choked voice.

“Honey, if Anne ever brought a man home at a convenient hour, she wouldn’t yell. Gentlest soul on either side of the Pond.”

“A darling,” added Hetty. “You’ll love her. And you’re both Americans, I’m sure you’d have a lot to talk about.”

“The U.S. isn’t that small,” interjected Mary.

“Whatever,” said Louisa, in her best mock Texan drawl.

“Lou,” said Hetty, rolling her eyes. “No one will ever accuse you of being the sweetest fish in the sea.”

“How will I survive?” she replied. “Oh, look there’s Dillon and Heather, and she has the most gorgeous sweater I’ve seen in a while. Hullo darlings!” The group assembled, and ate, and drank, and laughed together. Anne Elliot flew from Frederick’s mind. If she was in town, so be it, it wouldn’t make a difference, he was determined to enjoy the company of all his new friends.

Chapter Six:

Posted on Sunday, 15 May 2005

Anne returned to the dorm the next morning a trifle stiff from her night in Eleni’s dorm room, where she had accompanied her friend after the ordeal at the hospital. Eleni was now swathed in bandages, and appreciated the help and friendship Anne offered, especially in the absence of her roommate. The roommate showed up in the early morning, quite alarmed, but soon calmed by Anne’s soothing presence. Apart from the broken bones and a few bruises Eleni was unscathed, and by the time Anne had fetched breakfast for the three felt prepared to assist Eleni in any way she could. As Anne gathered together her handbag and jacket Eleni smiled.

“Thank you for coming,” she said. “It meant a lot. I didn’t know who to call when I couldn’t find Cherrie -- it’s quite alarming to be in trouble so far from home and my family.”

“I’m glad I could help,” said Anne, truthfully.

“Well, thank you, again. You’re a real brick. I’ll make it up to you, I swear. You said you missed a party, too. I’m sorry.”

“Oh, it wasn’t a big deal,” said Anne. She was glad that she had avoided meeting Frederick for a little longer. She was dying to see him, but afraid he must hate her. And Mary’s comments about Hetty and Louisa had stung. As much as she adored the two she didn’t want them to become involved with Fred. He had been hers once, and to have him around, dating her friends, would be impossible and painful.

“I’m glad you came. And I hope you got enough sleep?”

“I did. Don’t worry about anything. I’ll come by and see you tomorrow. Is there anything I can bring you?”

“I think I’ll be able to manage for the time being. I’m getting a wheelchair later today, they said. They thought a crutch might be awkward with the way I broke my collarbone.”

“Feel better, Eleni.”

“I’m sure I will,” replied the girl, cheerfully. “I feel better already after your company and a good breakfast. I think I’ll do some nice, sedate reading now. I’m sure being injured will help my study habits, anyway.”

“That’s the way to keep optimistic,” said Anne, smiling. “Well, I’ll be around. Call me if you need anything.”

“Sure thing,” said Eleni. “You rock.” Anne waved goodbye and went out of the room, smoothing her hair back into a ponytail.

Outside Eleni’s dormitory the morning was crisp, yet not unpleasantly so. The hour was still early, and Anne enjoyed the comparative emptiness of the streets. University students were hardly noted for getting up early. Anne stopped at a news agent's, and found a copy of the New York Times, which, though rather different from the more local editions from home, was soothing. The typeface was so familiar. Even though she had already eaten breakfast, Anne meandered through Uppercross, and found her way to her favorite cafe, where she ordered a cup of tea and settled down to read. She felt almost happy, there in the silence, reading her paper, divorced from her immediate world. When the shop started getting noisier from woken students, Anne paid the bill and left. She found her way back to Liddell, and ascended the stairs. She immediately ran into Hetty, in her dressing robe, as soon as she entered her hallway.

“Anne!” cried Hetty. “You darling, you. We missed you last night.”

“I thought Eleni needed me more,” said Anne.

“How is she?” asked Hetty. “Not that I know who you are talking about, but it sounds frightful.”

“She’s doing very well, considering she has a broken leg and a broken collarbone.”

“Ghastly!” cried Hetty. “And isn’t that a lovely word?”

“Yes,” said Anne, smiling. “Well, I’ll let you get to your shower.”

“Very well. I’ll be seeing you.” She turned and entered the bathroom, where Anne soon heard the sound of running water. She found her way back to her room, and unlocked the door. No one was inside, so Anne fell back on her bed and stared blankly at the ceiling. She was lying here when Mary bustled into the room.

“Anne!” she cried out. “How’s your friend?”

“Decently well, considering,” answered Anne, sitting up.

“I’m so sorry you missed everything last night. It was charming. Fred Wentworth is the sweetest man. And everything was such a success. And you’ll never guess! Charles’s friend Dillon apparently proposed to Heather on their way home. Isn’t that romantic? Dillon called Charles this morning to tell him all about it. I’ll have to call Heather later and hear her side of the story. Such sweeties.”

“Oh,” said Anne. She was mildly alarmed by the fact that Dillon was only two years older than herself, and Heather only one. She hadn’t had a boyfriend of any seriousness save Frederick.

“Anyway, I’m going to change. I’ve got to go to a lecture later. It actually sounded sort of interesting, even if it is earlier than my period, and Charles is going. Any interest in the War of the Roses?”

“Some. But I’m a bit tired,” Anne admitted. “But you can tell me all about it afterwards.”

“Drop by Charles’s room around three,” said Mary. “We should be back by then. I know he’d love to see you, anyway. He’ll love to babble history at you, you two old dears.”

“All right,” said Anne. “I’ll do that.” The prospect of chattering about history with Charles and Mary seemed rather appealing at present. Mary soon changed and left the room. Anne was left to stare into space.

She couldn’t help but think about Frederick. They’d meet soon, it was inevitable. She almost wished she could put it off forever, but the longer it was put off the harder it would be. Would he be the same at all? How had be grown? Did he loathe her utterly? What would he think of her? It was all so difficult. Anne sighed, and as she heard Hetty squelch back to her room, Anne decided that a bath would be just the thing. She gathered up her belongings, donned her bathrobe, and settled into a bathtub full of warm water. It was astonishing how one’s cares evaporated in the soothing setting.

By three in the afternoon Anne was feeling calm and tolerably happy. She’d done a lot of her reading for class, dried off leisurely and tidied the room again. Mary was a messy girl, and always leaving her belonging about the room. Anne put Mary’s scattered clothes on her chair, and neatened her own side of the room. A little after three Anne set out for Charles’s room, and was gratified to hear voices within. She knocked strongly, and Mary answered the door quickly.

“Anne, it was fascinating! He was an excellent lecturer. I don’t have any classes with him, but I wish I did, such a dish of a man.”

“Eloquent, too,” said Charles. “You did miss an interesting talk.”

“I’m sorry, it sounds as if both of you enjoyed it.”

“I didn’t expect to like it, and I did,” said Mary, simply. “Anyway, Charles wants to go fetch some sandwiches and have a late afternoon snack, but I’ll tell you all about his novel theory.”

Charles smiled. “I thought you’d like some food, too, so we didn’t stop on the way back. Mary said you looked as if you were going to be very stationary.”

“I’ll admit I am getting a little hungry,” said Anne.

“What sort of sandwich?” asked Charles. “I know what you want, darling,” he said to Mary. Mary smiled back.

“Turkey on wheat,” said Anne. “Choose some nice cheese for me. I trust your judgment, though I feel incapable of making up my mind. I was up late last night, and it was a little stressful.”

“Mary said she was doing all right, though, your friend?”

“Yes, she is.”

“Very well. I’ll run and fetch the sandwiches. Drink?”

“Water,” said Mary.

“I’d love some fizzy lemonade,” said Anne.

“Excellent,” said Charles. He put on a coat and left the room, whistling. Mary sat down on Charles’s chair and motioned Anne over onto the bed. They fell into historical discussion, and Anne delighted in Mary’s eagerness to dwell on academics. Time seemed to fly. They were startled from a tangent onto Flemish politics by a knock on the door.

“Charles must have forgotten his key, silly boy.” She turned to the door. “It’s not locked, you know,” she shouted impishly.

The door opened, and a face peeked around. Anne caught her breath, it was Fred, in the flesh. He seemed startled to see her there, and made no move to enter the room, though the door was now open. Their eyes met briefly, and Anne looked to the floor quickly.

“Well, come in!” cried Mary. “Grab yourself a seat.”

“I was just looking for Charles,” he said. “I think he walked off with my gloves.”

“Gloves” repeated Mary, thoughtfully. “Brown leather with divine woolly lining?”

“I suppose,” said Fred, with an amused look, despite himself. He was very fond of those gloves, but he wouldn’t have used that adjective himself.

“I was wondering where Charles had gotten them. I found them in his coat pockets last night, and wore them on the way back since it was so chilly. I think I left them in the room. I’ll just be a moment.” She made to leave the room, and Fred interjected, almost in alarm,

“I’ll go with you. I’ve just stopped in briefly.”

“Nonsense,” said Mary. She would have left the room that moment, leaving the two alone, if Hetty and Louisa hadn’t happened by at that instant, on their way out for a walk.

“Fred!” they exclaimed eagerly. “How lovely to see you again.”

“I couldn’t stay away,” he teased them. They smiled, and entered the room. Louisa sat down beside Anne,

“Anne, darling, how’s your friend?” she asked.

“Doing well, I think,” said Anne. “She’s back to her dorm, anyway.”

“You’re so helpful,” said Louisa, musingly. “Fred, come sit. You must meet Anne.” Frederick gave in to her command, and sat down on Louisa’s other side.

“We have met before,” said Fred, in a schooled voice.

“Really?” said Hetty, taking Mary’s seat. “You never said!”

“I wasn’t sure it was the same Anne Elliot. It’s pleasant to see you again, Anne,” he said. He talked as if she was a passing acquaintance. Anne thought it was anything but pleasant to see Frederick again. Exhilarating, frightening, shocking, yes. But not pleasant.

“And you,” she said in a small voice.

“So you left your friend in good health?” he added, by way of polite conversation.

“I did. Considering she has both a broken leg and a broken collarbone.” Fred grimaced at her answer, remembering a broken collarbone he had suffered himself, two years ago.

“It’s a painful complaint,” he said aloud.

“Frightful,” said Hetty. “Anyway, what have you all been up to?” she asked Anne and Fred equally.

“Not much,” said Anne. “A quiet afternoon.”

“Similar,” said Frederick. “Except that I was called by a desire to walk, and discovered that I’d misplaced my gloves. So I walked here to see if Charles had them.”

“He did,” said Mary, reentering the room. “Here you are, Fred.” She tossed them towards him, and he caught them easily. “So, you’ve met our Anne?” she asked him.

“They’ve met before!” protested Hetty.

“You never said,” said Mary, reproachfully. She liked playing social queen, and was off put by the idea that her roommate and her handsome friend had become acquainted without her.

“It was years ago,” protested Anne. “I didn’t think it was important.” Frederick’s jaw tightened, and he looked away. Charles chose this moment to reenter the room, bearing sandwiches and drinks.

“Hullo!” he said, surprised at the gathering. “Nice to see you all!”

“I came by to fetch my gloves,” explained Fred.

“Oh!” exclaimed Charles. “I never did give them back after you asked me to hold them, did you? What did I do with them...?”

“Mary found them,” Fred interjected. “I’d best be off to finish my walk.”

“Do let us join you,” begged Louisa. “Hetty and I were just on our way out.”

“Sure,” replied Fred. He rose. “It was nice seeing you all again. Charles, Mary, Anne.” He strode out of the room quickly, Hetty and Louisa following. Charles shared out the sandwiches, and soon forgot completely about Fred. Mary still wondered about his acquaintance with Anne, and Anne was still in shock at the meeting.

“Aren’t you going to eat your sandwich?” asked Charles, concerned a moment.

“I think I’m getting a headache,” pleaded Anne. “I think I’ll go lie down. Could you possibly wrap it up for me? I’d love it at another time.”

“All right,” said Mary, looking up. Anne stole out of the room. Frederick and the girls were at the end of the hall, and she watched the retreating backs until they were out of sight. She then ran to her room, and curled up in a ball beside the wall, with her head in her hands. She didn’t know what to think, what to do, if anything.

“Is Anne very like when you knew her before?” asked Louisa. She thought Anne a dear, and wondered what she had been like at home.

“I don’t know if I would have recognized her,” said Frederick, a little flippantly, remembering the charming girl he had cherished. This girl had disregarded their earlier relationship without a qualm before the others. The Anne he had known would have remembered, quietly, sweetly. She looked older, more worn, too.

“Really?” asked Hetty. She wondered how so, and was about to ask for clarification when the trio was assaulted by a group of Hetty’s friends. Anne Elliot flew from the girls’ minds. Frederick filed Anne away to a separate part of his consciousness, to deal with later. She was a subject that would require a good deal of time and thought.

Chapter Seven:

Posted on Sunday, 22 May 2005

Mary burst into the room with a stack of library books in her arms. Anne looked up, inquiringly.

“Paper,” Mary said. “I’m determined to figure out the General Crisis of the seventeenth century if it kills me. And speaking of things that might kill me, I’ve seen the menu for tomorrow night. Food service kidney pie sounds like an absolutely low. Any interest in coming out to the Uppercross Arms?”

“Kidney pie? Not even steak and kidney pie?” asked Anne, a furrow appearing between her brows.

“See? I want to get a group together, go to the Arms. Friday they have music and dancing, and it could be fabulous. You’ve got to come along this time, I fell as if I never see you any more.”

Anne refrained from explaining that Mary rarely saw her because Mary was very involved in her little social life, and Anne was increasingly involved in her academic life. She merely replied “Fine.”

“Lovely. I’m so excited. No kidney pie for us! I’ll go call up some others and see if they want to join.” She picked up the phone, and dialed a number. Anne turned back to her lecture notes, trying to formulate a thesis.

“Hetty! It’s Mary. I think the chefs of Liddell Dining will be outdoing their selves tomorrow... want to join us for some fun over at the Arms? ... I’m thinking a group of us can go and eat and dance. It’ll be some enjoyable Friday fun. Whatever is there for you to do, anyway, with Hayter off with his parents? ... Good. I’m glad you’ll come. What does Lou say? ... Awesome. I’m going to go see who else want to join. Fred? Dillon and Heather. You know. All right, bee-bee, babes.” Anne had known Mary would want to invite Frederick, she hoped it wouldn’t be a trying meeting. She didn’t think she’d purported herself well the last time. Polite friendliness would have been better. He was bound to hate her, after what she’d done, but there was no reason to deny what happened. It had happened, and that was all. Anne hoped Susan never found out about Fred’s being here, since she would be bound to make a fuss about everything. There was nothing to fuss about, really. Anymore.

Mary was dialing the next number. “Hey, Fred! It’s Mary. I was calling because our hall dinner is going to be so dismal tomorrow night that we want to go to dinner. I was thinking the Arms. Good food, good drink, good dancing? ... of course you can come. It’ll be a small group, all friends, all fun. You can’t possibly have anything else to do. ... I’ll count you in, then. I’ll see you Friday.” Mary put down the receiver, and looked over to Anne. “

Isn’t Fred dreamy? I mean if I wasn’t going out with Charles, I wouldn’t mind hitting on him. Such a pretty man, in that fabulously masculine way.”

Anne made a noncommittal noise. What else could she do? She knew that she still found Fred very attractive. His hair, his eyes, his figure were still most appealing. His banter, his kindness, they were still evident. His face had changed a little, become a little harder, but that was only natural after so many years. He’d matured wonderfully well, and Anne admitted to herself that she was disappointed that she’s screwed things up so very royally. It was painful to think that Louisa might end up with Frederick, or some girl from Brown, whom she’d never know. Everything was over for her now. She’d just have to throw herself into her studies and her friends, and move on, after all this time. She could, she thought.

“... Friday then? Yes. All right. We’ll see you two. Fabulous. Cheers!” Mary hung up the phone after her third call. “Heather says she and Dillon will come. That means you, me, Charles, Fred, Hetty, Lou and them. Not even numbers, but we know plenty of people in town who will come by the Arms for dancing, anyway. Well, this is merry! I think I’ll start my research while the euphoria is still with me.” She sprawled out across her bed, with one of the books opened at random. Anne laughed at the picture, and turned back to her work.

Friday night came, and with some trepidation Anne dressed for the night of dinner and dancing. She donned a black skirt with excellent twirlability, and a beautiful green sleeveless shirt, over which she put a light green jacket, and tied a green silk scarf around her head in a band, and pinned it in place. Mary smiled.

“I love it when you wear green,” she said. “It makes your eyes look a little hazel.” Anne shrugged.

“I’m ready,” she said.

“Well, let’s go, then,” Mary replied. I hear Charles shuffling in the hallway.”

The three set across the town towards a renovated Georgian inn, which had been turned into a quaint restaurant and excellent dance floor. They met Hetty and Louisa at the door,

“Chicas!” exclaimed Mary, happily. “You look fabulous.” They did. Hetty was donned an attractive gray dress, and Louisa wore a red top with long trousers. “I made a reservation. Let’s go gorge ourselves on real food,”

“You know, kidney pie isn’t do bad. Well, a kidney pud, anyway.”

“You keep telling yourself that,” said Mary. “Look, there’s Dillon and Heather and Fred. It’s so merry. Come on.” They followed her lead, and shortly the group was comfortably seated at a large table not far from the dance floor.

Anne was pleased to be neither seated beside Frederick nor directly across from him. She took a seat at the foot of the table, beside beside Heather on the one side, and Mary on the other. Dillon and Frederick occupied the other seats on Heather’s side of the table, with Hetty at the head of the table, and Louisa across from Frederick, and beside Mary. They each ordered their own entree, but soon the table was busily sharing dishes. Anne choked a little as she saw Frederick order veal parmesan, a dish she had introduced him to that summer, one night in a small but elegant cafe near the lake resort. She didn’t see it, but Frederick found his breathe catching in his throat as he saw Anne daintily helping herself from a large dish of spaghetti carbonara, one of her favorite foods. For a moment he felt as if nothing had changed, that she was still the same, sweet, loving girl. He remembered how well green suited her slender, elfin looks, and how beautiful her table manners had always been. He caught himself staring at her, and shook his head grimly. No thoughts like that anymore. She’d clearly moved on, and it was best if he did the same. He shifted in his seat, and in passing knocked Louisa’s leg. She smiled up at him across the table, from her perfect heart-shaped face, lovely dark eyes looking at him from under dark lashes.

“What do you think of our British food?” asked Louisa.

“I’d hardly call this fare British,” answered Fred. “British made, but not British fare.”

“How does it compare to food for you back home?”

“Quite well. You may not believe it, but we have some excellent eating establishments in Providence, Rhode Island.”

“I’m not sure that I’m ready to believe there is anything of interest,” said Hetty, firmly. “It’s too small.”

“Just because it isn’t New York City or Boston doesn’t mean it is a cultural vacuum,” said Frederick.

“That’s right,” said Anne, softly, unexpectedly. She seemed startled to hear her own voice.

“What’s that?” asked Hetty, too far down the table to hear.

“She agrees with me,” said Frederick, whose ear was still tuned to the soft rhythm of Anne’s voice. Louisa raised an eyebrow, having scarcely heard Anne herself. Frederick ignored her,

“I just wanted to say that there are some rather wonderful cafes and restaurants all across the Northeast,” Anne elaborated, hesitantly. “Sometimes the best places are far from anything one would consider a cultured place.” She thought of the cafe by the resort, and her face turned a little pink. Frederick’s thoughts were pulled towards the same establishment, fondly recalling long evenings they’d spent together, after he’d gotten off work for the night.

“If you say so,” said Louisa, dismissively. “I must say that even though I came to university here in Uppercross, I long for the excitement of the city. For adventure and exciting new foods and different people.”

“Travel is very enlightening,” agreed Frederick. “I’ve been backpacking for the last two summers, and it’s been fascinating to see all these different places.”

“Where have you been?” asked Louisa, who seemed to be hanging on his every word, and relishing his refreshing American accent.

“Thailand last summer, and a little in India. Australia. Last summer I was in South America. I’d like to see as much of the world as I can.”

“What’s it all like?” asked Louisa. “I mean, I’ve been all over Europe, but never further than the Continent.”

Fred launched into a description of the places he’d been, and Anne was rather amused by the general ignorance of her dining companions. She’d never been much of a traveler, but she remembered pouring over travel books with Fred that summer, and ever since she’d retained an interest which she intended to indulge once she was independent of her father and sister, who preferred Europe and resorts in the States to the exotic places Anne longed to see. Despite her interest in history she’d also taken a number of Anthropology courses, and longed to see the Trobriand Islands that Malinowski had studied, and Easter Island, and India. Heather chimed in from time to time, as well as Dillon, both of whom had traveled a fair amount, and had entertaining stories to tell. The meal passed quickly, and soon Mary began to look longingly at the dancers who had appeared on the dance floor. Her face broke into a smile when she music broke into a rumba.

“Charles, I know you can dance, will you oblige?” she asked. She pulled him to his feet. “Come on, I want to dance.” Charles shrugged his shoulders, and began to rumba out on the floor, with Mary forcefully leading. As they began a series of open breaks Louisa leaned down the empty side of the table towards Anne.

“She’s got the boy on a leash,” she said, in a loud whisper.

“Indeed,” said Hetty, watching. “First she makes him brush up his dancing skills, then she still leads. It’s amazing. Do you dance, Fred?” she asked, turning to her neighbor.

“Haven’t for a year or so, but I can give it a try.”

“Excellent!” she stood up, and the two went over to the dance floor together. Heather and Dillon joined them shortly. Louisa slipped into the seat beside Anne.

“Come on, Anne, don’t you want to find someone and dance? There are some decent looking fellows over there.” She nodded with a sweep of her long hair.

“It’s been a long time since I rumbaed,” said Anne. She was feeling the distance between her and Fred now. They had once been close, but she couldn’t imagine being able to dance with him, as she knew he would feel obliged to do, as a member of the same party. She thought she’d establish herself on the sidelines instead. “You know I’m not a great dancer.”

“Correction: you are a fabulous dancer who doesn’t seem to dance much,” said Louisa.

‘Well, if you won’t, I think I’m going to go amuse myself with one of those guys. I don’t want to sit out all night.” Before she made it over to the young men, however, the dance had finished, and Frederick sent an inquiring glance in her direction. She ran over, and soon they began a second rumba. Fred was a skilled lead, Anne knew this, and couldn’t help but feel a little envious as she watched Fred twirl Louisa about in a series of Latin turns. Hetty had found a friend, and was dancing tolerably well to the side, but Anne’s eyes were on Fred and Louisa. They looked so natural, so happy together. Anne looked away. At that moment Fred glanced over to where the slim figure was studying the dessert menu somewhat forcefully.

“Doesn’t Anne dance?” he asked. “She used to.” He remembered how light on her feet she was, how quick and lively, and a joy to hold in his arms.

“She says she doesn’t want to. I’ve seen her dance on occasion, and she’s divine. She doesn’t seem very enthusiastic about dancing, though, despite her skill. If she wants to sit, I say let her sit. She’s missing out, but she can always join in.” Frederick whipped Louisa into a j-hook, and they continued through the end of the song to attract attention for their fancy performance. Anne studiously ignored them from the other side of the room, and twisted her napkin round and round in her hands, wishing she could leave, or that Frederick would, so that she could enjoy herself without fear of the past exploding on her.

Chapter Eight:

Posted on Monday, 30 May 2005

At breakfast in Liddell’s basement dining hall the next morning, Mary would not desist from talking about her “successful evening”. Charles seemed eager to speculate as well, leaving Anne to munch on her toast silently. She would have preferred not to talk about anything involving Frederick. She didn’t know how she felt about him. Maybe a little resentful that he didn’t seem to love her, relieved that he didn’t passionately hate her, but disturbed by the way he ignored her. Once they had been close, and now they could not even chat in a friendly fashion. It would have been better if they had never met, for then they might have gotten to know one another. Now, with so much past history, they were unable to be on familiar terms again.

“I think he’d be best with Hetty,” said Mary, poking her eggs distastefully.

“Hetty? But what about Hayter?”

“Hayter’s boring.”

“Mary, you don’t know him well. You can’t possibly go around dismissing people you don’t know. It’s none of your business to encourage Hetty to break off her relationship.”

“Nor yours to preserve it. She should make up her own mind, yes, I agree. But it can’t hurt to throw Fred and Hetty together a great deal. I think they’d be perfect for each other. She’s so bubbly, it would be perfect. He seems too grave sometimes. Lighten him up a little. And he’s much prettier than Hayter.”

“Mary --”

“What?”

“But Louisa is mad about him, can’t you see it? Oh, maybe not, you haven’t known her as long as I have. But she’s far more possessive of him than anyone I’ve seen her with. I think they’d make an excellent couple.”

“They’d be too absorbed in each other,” replied Mary, dismissively. “She’s too gorgeous and he’s too attractive, and they both do the strong and silent thing from time to time. I don’t think they’d make a good couple, and if they did they’d ignore their friends.”

“We seem to disagree completely. Anne, help us -- who should Frederick date, Hetty or Louisa?”

Anne dropped her fork.

“I --”

“Hetty, of course,” said Mary. “You know Louisa, wouldn’t she and Fred suit each other so awkwardly? I say Hetty. And Hayter can go back to his divinity library.”

“Mary, that’s not very nice --”

“Charles --”

“Let Anne have her say.”

“Shouldn’t... shouldn’t Frederick decide for himself, if he wants either?” Anne forced the words out.

“Hear, hear!”

“And he’d chose Hetty if he had any sense...” The conversation was broken off as Mary caught sight of Hetty and Louisa across the dining hall. “Blast. Not a word to them.” Anne, disturbed by the thought that she was friends with her two potential replacements, was only too glad to stay silent. She stirred her porridge around with her spoon, not eating. She’d rather lost her appetite. Louisa noticed, and raised an eyebrow.

“Surely you don’t need to diet.”

Anne flushed. “I just don’t want porridge. Maybe I’ll get some fruit instead.” She slipped up from her seat, and made her way across the arches expanse towards the serving hatches.

“What’s wrong with Anne?” asked Louisa.

“Anne? Is something wrong with Anne?” asked Mary. “I didn’t notice anything.”

“Oh,” said Louisa. Maybe it was the porridge. But Anne’s forehead had been creased, and she looked a little pale. When Anne returned Louisa studied her face critically. Yes, something was clearly wrong, but she had no notion what. Everything had been very merry last night, and surely nothing could have happened yet this morning. She shrugged, and focused on her eggs.

“What are you girls up to today?” asked Mary.

“Not so very much. I have a paper due on Monday, but I have no motivation for that sort of thing at all right now,” said Hetty.

“Isn’t Hayter coming back today?” asked Charles.

“Oh! I don’t know. It is Saturday, so I presume so.”

Charles frowned. It sounded rather like Hetty was neglecting poor Hayter. He liked Fred very much, but he rather disliked the way one of his countrymen was being slighted for the handsome American.

“Fred said he’d stop by later,” said Louisa. “Hetty and I think we’ll take him to York.”

“Sounds fun,” said Mary. “I wish I could join, but I have an appointment for my hair. I can’t believe these split ends.”

Charles studied her hair a moment. “I don’t see any problems. I like your hair very much as it is.”

“Boys always say that,” dismissed Mary. “You’ll like it afterwards too, honey. Oops! Is it already ten-thirty? I’d better get running. Care to walk with me, Charles?”

“All right,” he said, and ambled off, carrying his tray with him.

“They are the most fascinating couple of my acquaintance,” observed Louisa. “Really.”

“They get along fairly well,” said Anne. “I think they’re both happy.”

“I’m just astonished that they reached the old-married-couple stage so quickly. Anyway, what are you up to, Anne? Want to come to York with us and Fred?”

“Oh, no, thank you,” said Anne, quickly. The last place she wanted to be was in a car with Fred and the young women who wanted his attention. “I have plans. I think I’ll go into town and buy some groceries. I’ve been longing for muffins lately.”

“Mmm,” said Hetty. “That sounds fantastic. Think you could hold off long enough for us to help?”

“Tell you what. I’ll make them in the late afternoon so you can have hot muffins when you get back.”

“Sounds excellent,” said Louisa. “We’ll be back around four, I imagine. Hetty has a meeting with her tutor.”

“On a Saturday?”

“She’s going to a conference in Glasgow next week.”

“Oh. All right. Well, muffins will be ready ay four, then.”

“Anne, I love you,” said Hetty. “You’re so sweet.”

“And an amazing baker,” added Louisa, with a smile. “I’ll have to watch you some time, figure out your secrets.”

“I have none,” said Anne, referring to her baking.

“We’ll see about that,” said Louisa. She remembered the lines in Anne’s forehead, and her strange skittishness. She’d winkle the truth out of Anne eventually, and do whatever she could to help the poor girl shine with happiness. It would be the least a friend could do.

Charles Hayter returned from his sojourn at home with a smile on his face. The vicar at his local church had been talking to him, and he thought that once he took orders he’d be able to find a respectable living. With that he’d be able to eventually provide for Hetty. It was a nice thought, a life in the cloth, with Hetty. It was far in the future, to be sure, but it would be lovely. He ascended the steps of Liddell, hoping to spend some time with Hetty. He’d missed her.

Hetty came bolting down the stairs, and stopped.

“Hayter! I didn’t know you were coming back today.”

“I wasn’t sure which day. I’m sorry I didn’t call. Are you busy?”

“Actually, yes. Fred and Lou and I are off to York.”

“Fred?”

“You met, I think? The American.”

“I don’t remember.”

“Tall, attractive. Fair-haired.”

“Sorry.”

“Is Fred here yet?” asked Louisa, bustling by.

“Not yet. I’m watching.”

“What’s keeping the boy?”

“Is that him?” Hetty leaned towards the hallway window, and pointed at a fair head across the street.

“Too short,” said Louisa.

“Blast. I wanted to get off early.”

“Didn’t you tell him when you were on the phone earlier? You were on long enough.”

“I forgot.”

Hayter watched the two girls, a little aloof. It was bad enough that Hetty was busy on the day of his homecoming, but she was essentially ignoring him. Instead she was looking out for a tall, blond American.

“I’ll be going, then,” said Hayter, a little bitterly.

“Bye,” said Hetty, dissuasively. Hayter’s face clouded, and he marched out of the building. Maybe it was a temporary thing. He’d be back later in the day.

“Any idea when you’ll be back?” asked Hayter, turning back.

“By four. I’ve got a meeting with my tutor.”

“I’ll walk you over,” offered Hayter. He hoped she’d accept. She must still care, a little. He’d like to talk to her.

“All right,” said Hetty. “Meet me here. Anne is baking, so try the floor kitchen nook.”

It was better than nothing, but she was still craning. There was nothing left to do but leave. So, Hayter left. With two lines in his forehead, and a parallel one across his lips.

Anne’s forehead was creased, as she examined the fork she’d stuck into her muffins. They clearly needed a little more time, but the stove smelled like it held something burning. She shut the door, and turned the fan up a little higher, and blinked twice. Community stoves were always finicky. A shadow fell across the stove as someone entered the small kitchen.

“Oh,” said Frederick. Anne whirled around in surprise. “I thought Louisa and Hetty were here. They gave me to understand that they’d be here after they got rid of their purchases.”

“Louisa was just by a second ago. She’ll be back,” said Anne, briefly. “I can tell her --” She broke off as Hayter entered.

“Is Hetty here?” he asked. “She has to be at her meeting at four, and I was supposed to walk her.”

“She’d not. I’ll go check on them, if you like,” said Anne, to the two young men. She didn't want to stay in the room alone with Fred. He looked shocked to find himself alone with Anne, and turned eagerly to Hayter, when he entered.

“You’re Hayter?” asked Fred, conversationally. “I’m Fred Wentworth.”

Hayter stared sullenly at the other man. Fred was certainly attractive, and he resented it. Hetty liked fair haired men. He hoped she wasn’t out to replace him. He adored Hetty. She was lively and beautiful and sweet. Who wouldn’t love her? His thoughts, as those of the others were interrupted as Anne opened the stove once more, after sniffing the air once more. Something was definitely burning. She was met with a small cloud of smoke, and choked. “Something is on fire,” she said, rubbing her eyes. Something with oily smoke, which hurt her eyes.

“Call the firemen,” said Hayter. Fred rushed to her side, and turned the stove quickly off. In an instant he had removed her muffin tray to the side, and had located the fire extinguisher. He deftly activated it, and within minutes had the small fire put out, shielding his own eyes with one arm. Hayter watched, mouth open.

“Are you all right?” Fred asked Anne.

“I got smoke in my eyes,” said Anne.

“Here,” replied Fred, wetting the towel Anne had brought along to dry her dishes with. He placed it in her hands, and raised them gently to her eyes. In another moment he had opened one window, and gestured to Hayter to do the same.

“The fire alarm didn’t go off, it must be dead. Would you open those windows, anyway? Now that it’s out I’d rather not set off the alarm in the hallway.” Hayter mutely opened two windows. Anne held the towel to her eyes, and when she lowered it at last Fred was gone. Louisa rushed into the room.

“Fred told me all about it. He’d off to find the hall manager to complain about the stove and the alarm. You poor girl! Let’s get you an eye bath.” Anne found herself being mutely led aside. She was grateful for Fred’s assistance, and yet he had disappeared. He didn’t seek her out afterwards, but left the building, she heard from Louisa. This incident had been the most personal interaction Anne and Fred had had with one another since they had met again. But it hadn’t lasted. Fred had been kind, but was it kindness he’d give anyone in a similar situation? Anne ran her fingers through her soft brown hair and sighed. Life seemed very complicated.

Chapter Nine:

Posted on Thursday, 9 June 2005

Frederick seemed to stay away from Liddell Hall in the days following the stove accident. Anne was relieved in a way, but also a little disappointed. After all, he had helped her, and she had hoped that maybe it might have broken the ice between them. But it seemed that Frederick had no desire to rekindle his acquaintance with Anne, instead they remained perfect strangers to each other. So, Anne went back about the business of her life: spending time with her friends, attending lectures and tutorials, completing assignments, participating in clubs and communicating with her friends from home and her family.

Since she had met up with Frederick again, Anne was loathe to talk to Susan about friends. Susan had finally deduced that the Rick Wentworth who was brother to the tenants of the Elliot home in Kellynch was the same Frederick Wentworth whom she had disengaged her friend Anne from years earlier. Susan herself similarly felt awkward talking to Anne about this, and felt it to be a very unfortunate thing that Anne should be thrown into his company so often. She hoped that Anne would be able to move on, but it seemed a trifle unlikely while he was always so present, so near. Anne would feel too awkward in starting a relationship with someone new as her old boyfriend would always be present, watching. Susan hoped that he would start a relationship with Louisa, or some other girl there, so Anne might have a greater sense of freedom. But of course, there was nothing Susan could do about any of this. She kept her remarks to the goings on back home, both on campus and in Kellynch, and to Anne’s family. These were safe subjects, and subjects which Anne enjoyed talking about.

“How’s your family?” asked Susan, during her weekly phone call to Anne, two nights after the stove accident.

Anne sighed a little. “Well, fine. I got another e-mail yesterday. It would be nice if they’d call once in a while, but I think they’re busy, or can’t be bothered, or something. Dad’s been working a lot, or rather courting that account a lot. A whole bunch of parties and presentations and things. I guess it’s going well. Dalrymple Ltd. is taking their time in looking at all the offers. I’m not sure that they want to deal with an offshore company, but Dad thinks they’ve been impressed with him so far. And I guess it hasn’t hurt him that he married an Englishwoman.”

“Well, I can see your dad enjoying that sort of work. Lots of schmoozing, huh?”

“Definitely. My sister’s enjoying it too.”

“Being a hostess?”

“Yes. And just being here. She likes being in Europe, and seems to take weekend trips into London and Paris constantly. She and Nell are enjoying moving in the “best circles” in Bath. Don’t know exactly what that means.”

“Has she met all those titled men yet?”

“Apparently there aren’t so many in Bath. Hence London, and all.”

“Oh, Liz.”

“Yeah, I know.”

“So is Nell being herself?”

“I’m not sure. I haven’t been to visit them yet or anything. My dad only has good things to say about her – apparently she’s a great hostess too. Liz seems quite happy with her company.”

“Well, it’s good that they seem happy, anyway.”

“Yes.”

“How are you doing, Anne? You sound a bit beleaguered.”

“Just work,” Anne lied. She didn’t really want to talk about the stress Frederick was imposing on her through his friendship with her friends.

“You take it easy. I don’t want to hear you’ve gotten sick or anything.”

“All right.... how are things at school?”

“Fabulous.” Susan prattled on about the lab she’d done in bio that day, described the parties she’d been to that weekend and described her roommate’s new boyfriend. When Anne had hung up the phone afterwards she felt a little better. Home was terribly soothing, and it was nice to know that everyone went about their lives in the same way. When Anne came back for senior year, campus would be just as she’d left it.

Her relaxed mood was soon shattered by a hammering on the door to her room.

“Come in!” she called out, putting the phone back on a shelf.

“Mary – oh, it’s you. Do you know where Mary is?” asked Charles, entering the room.

“I haven’t seen her all day,” said Anne.

“If you do, can you tell her I’m looking for her?” asked Charles.

“Certainly.”

“I think she’s a terrible influence,” said Charles, thickly, turning to go.

“What’s wrong?” asked Anne, getting up. “Are you having problems?”

“I adore Mary,” said Charles a little sheepishly. “She’s just being absolutely unreasonable.”

“Is it something that you might be able to figure out better if you told someone?” inquired Anne, her sweet concern surfacing.

“Maybe,” said Charles. He flopped down onto Mary’s bed, and held a stuffed panda in his hand, flicking its ears upright for a few minutes, before tossing it aside and putting his chin between his palms. “It’s about Hayter, see,” he ventured.

“Hayter? I haven’t seen him in the last few days,” said Anne, in surprise. Not since his singularly unhelpful behavior in the kitchen.

“That’s just it,” said Charles, sitting up. “None of us have. Not even Hetty. Why on earth would he stay away from Hetty? I know he’s not busy. My friend Henry told me he’d run into Hayter, and Hayter had seemed a little down, but wasn’t at all busy. Henry is in most of the same classes as Hayter. So that means Hayter has been avoiding all of us. And I’m convinced it has to do with Hetty and Mary.”

“Would this have to do with... Frederick?” asked Anne, hesitantly.

“And Fred. But it’s not Fred’s fault, he’s just been friendly. It’s Mary. Has to be. She’s determined that Hetty and Fred would be perfect together, and doesn’t mind sacrificing Hayter’s feelings. That’s unpardonable. I’m afraid that she’s convinced Hetty of the same and that Hetty’s snubbed Hayter. I can’t imagine any other reason for Hayter to stay away. He’s been my friend for a while now and I have a lot of respect for him. He wouldn’t stay away from me unless he felt me to be involved too, which I would be, by virtue of being Hetty’s cousin.”

“Don’t blame yourself,” said Anne, putting a comforting hand on his shoulder. “I can try to see if I can find out what’s gone on. In the meantime you might call Hayter and see if you two can talk. It might help.”

“It’s all sensible, Anne. Thank you. Tell me if you find anything. I’m going to go look for Mary, though.”

“Bye,” said Anne, as Charles strode out the door. She hoped it wouldn’t be a painful encounter for the two. They were an odd couple, to be sure, but they did make each other happy, at a basic level.

In order to fulfill her offer to Charles, Anne went to find Louisa, in hopes of finding out if Hetty and Hayter had had a falling out. Louisa was in, and happy to see Anne.

“Anne! Any idea what’s wrong with Charles? He came storming in, and wouldn’t tell me what’s up.”

“He came to me, too. He’s upset about Hayter.” Anne slid herself into Hetty’s desk chair, and propped her chin up on one hand. “Do you know what’s up between Hayter and Hetty these days?”

“I don’t know exactly,” said Louisa. “But I’m worried too. Hayter and Hetty make s fabulous couple, as much as I tease her about him. He’s a very good man, and a kind one, and you didn’t know Hetty before she was in a stable relationship, but I can assure you that she needs one to be happy. She’s been a little unhappy lately. First Hayter went away, and I know she’s attracted to Fred, but Hayter is her love. She doesn’t known how to reconcile the two feelings.”

“Has she seen Hayter lately?”

“As far as I can tell, the last time she saw him was when he walked her to that meeting. The day you set the dorm on fire.”

“Hey!”

“I know, it was the stove, not you. Anyway, he seemed a little upset that day, which I can understand, since Hetty spent the whole day with me and Fred, and then as far as I can tell she prattled on about the excursion to Hayter, and he became resentful of Fred. I’m guessing that it is jealousy which is keeping him away. Which is ridiculous, since Fred hasn’t been around for days, and Hetty really loves Hayter. He’s just too afraid to come and see it.”

“Is there anything we can do to help?” asked Anne, moved with pity for Hayter and Hetty.

“They need to talk. To be in each other’s company. If only they’d talk I have the feeling they can work things out. He’s a sweet boy, honestly. And I can’t help but think that it would break him to lose Hetty. And Hetty wouldn’t be happy if she lost him. She’s short of temper when she hasn’t seen him in a while. She’s a bit of a silly goose, honestly.”

“And a dear,” added Anne.

“Definitely,” said Louisa. “I’ll think of how to throw them back together. I’ll let you know what I come up with. Thanks for enlightening me to what was up with Charles.”

“Yes. Well, he thinks it’s Mary’s fault, but it sounds like you think it is a misunderstanding between Hetty and Hayter.”

“I’m fairly certain.”

“Well, I’ll tell Charles when I next see him so he doesn’t rant at Mary too much.”

“So how would it be Mary’s fault?” asked Louisa, curious.

“Mary doesn’t particularly like Hayter,” said Anne, hesitantly. “I think she thinks Hetty can do better. So she wouldn’t mind seeing them break up.”

“If she does anything to break them up I’ll kill her,” said Louisa, in a serious tone. “I’m not about to see some bitch ruin my best friend’s happiness.”

“I don’t think Mary’s done anything,” said Anne, soothingly. “She mostly is just a lot of talk.”

“Well, she’d better keep her talk away from Hetty. What she and Hayter have is the closing thing to true love I’ve seen yet, and I don’t think some visiting student has the right to interfere.”

“I’ll keep an eye on Mary, but I think if you can get Hayter and Hetty talking again, everything will be well.”

“I hope so,” said Louisa. “No one should meddle in the affairs of people in love with one another. It’s inhuman.” Anne swallowed, and felt a lump in her throat.

“Inhuman,” she echoed, weakly.

Chapter Ten:

Posted on Wednesday, 15 June 2005

Another Saturday rolled by, a crisp and glorious autumn day. Hayter had been round once or twice in the week, but mostly stayed away, with the air of one very grieved. He felt the slight as Mary organized parties to which he was not invited, and sulked whenever he was. He had no great love for Frederick’s company, as Mary kept pushing Hetty towards the American. Louisa looked on sympathetically, and endeavored to throw Hayter and Hetty together as much as she might contrive, but it wasn’t much. She mourned to Anne about it.

“There is so little I can do to repair the damage between them. I don’t want to interfere much.”

“I’m sure it will work out,” soothed Anne. She and Louisa were spending the morning together, until Hetty returned from an early club meeting. Anne was ostensibly reading a magazine, and Louisa varnishing her fingernails a pleasant pale pink, but they had ended up chatting.

Hetty burst in the door. “Hullo there, girls. I saw Charles and Fred outside. Apparently their efforts to go play football with their mates didn’t work out.”

“Poor things. Charles was so excited about the nice weather and free weekend,” consoled Louisa. “Anne, would you like to join us on a walk? We were thinking about walking along the path by the river.”

“Thanks, but no. I think I’ll do some laundry.”

“Your loss.” Louisa screwed the cap back on the bottle of varnish, and examined her nails. With a toss of her head she uncurled from Anne’s chair, and started towards the door, only to have it open as Mary entered.

“Girls!” cried Mary, blowing air kisses. “How lovely to see you. What’s up?”

“Hetty and I were going on a walk,” said Louisa, a little coldly. Mary wasn’t in her good books presently.

“A walk? Sounds lovely, just the day for it. Do you mind if I join?”

“A very long walk,” said Louisa.

Mary, oblivious to the hint, snorted. “Everyone always assumes that I’m fragile just because I’m not an athlete. I’d like to go on a walk very much. Even if it is long.”

Louisa and Hetty shared a glance, and sighed a little.

“Didn’t you also want to do laundry this morning?” interrupted Anne, in an effort to help Louisa.

“Oh, but I can do that later. It’s not like my laundry is going anywhere. A walk sounds fabulous. Who’d want to be cooped up on a day like this?”

“Anne, then your laundry can wait too,” pleaded Louisa. She had hoped to keep Hetty away from Mary so that the roommates might have a good talk about Hayter, but Mary’s company would spoil everything. Anne nodded, in the cause of peace, and pulled a knitted jacket with toggles over her fitted shirt. She grabbed up a pair of thin gloves, and shoved them into the pockets, as the others prepared to walk out.

In the hall they met up with Charles and Fred, whom Hetty persuaded to join them. Charles was not much pleased with Mary at this time, but let her take his arm as they left the sidewalk for a gravel path which the town of Uppercross had caused to be set along the bank of the river Ouse. Anne walked on his other side, and the three managed to find neutral topics to converse about. Fred walked ahead with Hetty and Louisa, who had decided the direction and path.

Anne thought the day lovely, and agreed with Mary that such a day would be best spent outside. The area around the river was green and golden, the river surprisingly deep blue, despite the disturbing of the river traffic. She felt herself remembering snatches of poetry, and smiled to herself. Hetty paused to admire patch of flaming red wildflowers, and Anne was able to hear the conversation of their group, who seemed in similar raptures about the weather and scenery.

“It is lovely, isn’t it?” mused Frederick. “Dillon said he was going riding today. Why he couldn’t play soccer with us. Have to say it’s a lovely day for a ride.”

“Has his horse recovered from his lameness, then?” asked Louisa, curious.

“Apparently. Yet another reason why he wanted to ride today. I wonder if we’ll see him. They have opened up this path to horse traffic now, though I’m not sure how much they like gravel. I was never really into horses.”

“I used to ride,” said Louisa. “And certainly this stuff is no picnic, but it’s not all that bad either. And there is the verge, which would be easier.”

“It’s too bad that Heather is in Nottingham this weekend,” mused Fred. “I find the pair of them riding together to be the picture of sweet happiness. Though Heather really is the amateur of the pair. It seems as if every time they go out together it’s Heather who comes back with bruises and scrapes.”

“But I can understand her perfectly. She wants to enjoy what Dillon enjoys, with him. I, too, would rather be thrown from my pony alongside the man I loved than sitting at home while he went and enjoyed himself by himself. It’s very sweet of her, and I can see exactly where she’s coming from.” Louisa spoke enthusiastically. Frederick turned to her, smiling, Hetty momentarily forgotten.

“Do you?” asked Frederick. “I find your philosophy very admirable. Best, indeed, to suffer with the one you love, rather than to part ways over small things.” Hetty, with a stalk of the red flower tucked in her fair hair, rejoined the conversation, and it became more general. Anne kept walking in silence, glad that Charles and Mary were busy talking to one another. She wasn’t sure she could lapse back into her dreamy poetical mode after overhearing that comment. She examined her surroundings instead.

“Isn’t this the turnoff for the divinity school?” asked Anne, as the three ahead of her turned off the main path onto a flagged one leading back towards another part of the university.

“You’re right!” exclaimed Mary. “It is the way to the divinity school. I had no idea! Well, now I think we had better turn back. I’m quite worn out.”

Hetty, both desperately wanting to see Hayter and worried that he would hate her, was ready to do the same.

“No,” said Charles, and Louisa restrained her. The two girls drew aside from the group a little, and seemed to be arguing in low voices. Charles turned to Mary, and said firmly, “If we’ve come this far, I want to see Hayter. I haven’t seen him much lately. Why don’t you come too? He’ll have something to drink about, and you can rest in the lounge of his hall, if you’d like.”

“Walking all the way to the divinity dorm and back will do me more harm than resting there could help,” retorted Mary, standing firm. She wanted nothing to do with the divinity students.

The conference continued, and Charles and the English girls soon agreed to go down together. “We’ll only be a little while. You can all sit here under the trees and rest,” said Charles to the three Americans. They soon disappeared, and Mary looked scornfully about.

“It’s such a shame to be connected to people with whom one would rather not be,” said Mary, primly. “I assure you I have no set foot in there above once.” Anne scowled gently, and wished that Mary would come off whatever pedestal she thought she was one. There was nothing wrong with divinity students at all. Quite a lot of them were sincere, friendly people. Just because they weren’t primary people of pleasure like Mary was no reason to dislike them. Frederick didn’t respond to the statement, giving only a toothless smile, and staring off into the distance. He didn’t much fancy talking to Mary at present, and conversation with Anne was impossible.

Mary soon sat down on a wooden bench which had been set along the flagged path, and seemed happy enough that the others were around her, even if they weren’t talking. Louisa shortly joined them, trotting down the path, with a smug smile on her face. She shot Frederick a grin. “I know where there are some hazelnuts,” she said. “Let’s see if they’re ripe.” The two wandered off, and Anne was left with a dissatisfied Mary, who had disliked both Louisa’s demeanor and the fact that half the party had abandoned her.

“I’m sure Louisa has found a better seat,” muttered Mary, irritably, and wandered off in search of the pair. Anne sighed, and found a pleasant clump of rocks to sit on, a little further back from the path, beside a magnificent hedge. After a few moments she realized that Fred and Louisa must be on the other side of the hedge, as she could hear their conversation perfectly. She didn’t move, for fear of alerting them to her presence, and after a moment the conversation became irresistible. Anne sat perfectly still.

“She would have gone back if not for you, wouldn’t she?” asked Frederick. He didn’t know Hayter, but he thought of Hetty has being taken, and had never intended to feed that man’s jealousy. Louisa had just been warning him of everything, and Fred had vowed to stop being quite so friendly when Hayter was around.

“I’m ashamed to think that she would,” said Louisa.

“It’s a good thing she has someone like you,” said Fred. “From what you’ve just said, and my own earlier observations I see that this walk was indeed planned. I can’t help thinking that the both of them will suffer if they are ever tried, and they have no friends to help them. They need people like you to push them back together, inspire them with courage. One of the worst things, I think, is a personal who yields too easily. I am glad that you have fixed things.” Anne could not see, but Frederick picked a nut from the ground, and tossed it in the air a few times. “Louisa, see this nut? It’s a lovely nut, smooth and fir, unlike all these trampled nuts. People like you are like this nut. I commend you. If you can be as beautiful and hardy as this nut, I trust that you will find happiness.”

There was no response from Louisa, who was confused and pleased by such a declaration. Anne felt jealous of the warm tone in which Frederick had been speaking, of the seriousness of his words. She and he were worlds away, and now he was paying court to one of her new best friends. Anne wanted to run far away, but couldn’t, without alerting them to her presence. The ground on this side of the hedge was likewise covered in broken hazelnuts, which would crunch quite audibly under her shoes.

“Mary’s a nice enough girl,” said Louisa, at last, though her voice sounded as if she and Frederick were walking on again, “but she’s really making me angry over this Hayter thing. I don’t know what she has against divinity students. Or him. He’s quite a nice chap. I hope she doesn’t make Charles petty. It’s times like this that I wish Anne had agreed to date him.”

“Charles wanted to date her?” asked Frederick, a little too quickly, after a moment’s pause. “And she refused him?”

“Oh yes, didn’t you know? He was mad about her from the moment they met. But she refused him.”

“When was this?”

“Oh, early in the term. First weeks, really. He started spending time with Mary about the time we met you. I don’t know exactly why she refused him, but...” the voices became too indistinct for Anne to hear, and she sat on her rocks, shaking gently, until Mary found her. The two walked back to the wooden bench, and sat in silence until Charles returned, bringing with him the bashful and pink-faced couple of Hetty and Hayter. Louisa and Fred returned moments later, and the larger group set out back along the river path. They had linked arms and dawdled behind the others. Louisa was beaming, and Mary scowling. Anne was happy for them, but was a little sad too. Now everything was open for Louisa to start a relationship with Frederick. They were very close, and his comments in the hedgerow signaled some regard on his part. She would just have to learn to watch the pair of them, happy together.

Louisa and Frederick soon plowed on ahead, leaving Anne, Mary and Charles to walk in the middle of the group. Charles was displeased with Mary’s exhibition of poor manners by the flagged path, and was disinclined to walk with her, although he would have liked to walk with Anne. However, seeing that Mary would request an arm to lean on, he soon dashed ahead, muttering something about a pheasant he could have sworn he’d seen. Mary sighed, and took Anne’s arm for support, for she was tired after the lengthy walk. Anne plodded along beside her roommate, wishing Frederick would go far away, or that Mary would stop whining about her feet, when it was clearly her own fault that she had blisters, on account of wearing impractical shoes.

They walked in this manner for perhaps twenty minutes, and Anne realized with a heavy heart that there was still a good ways left to go. She hadn’t worn her sneakers, or her hiking boots, and her own feet were a little tired. However, soon afterwards, she was pleased to note that Frederick, Louisa and Charles had stopped, ahead of them. They were conversing with a lone horseback rider, whom Anne soon recognized as Dillon. The red-haired young man smiled as he observed the group.

“It’s a regular reunion out here! How’s the walk, ladies?” he asked, catching sight of Anne and Mary. Anne smiled a little wanly, and Mary put on her social face, and began enthusing about the scenery. Frederick observed Anne with a little alarm. She seemed pale, and there were lines in her forehead, and she was rubbing her feet gently along one leg as they stood chatting. Hetty and Hayter soon joined the group, although quite self absorbed. The others turned to greet the new arrivals, and Fred took the moment to stride up to the horse and saw something in a low voice to Dillon’s bended ear. He then stepped back towards the group.

“I can take one of the girls with me,” said Dillon, cheerfully, “if anyone’s tired. I’ll be going near Liddell Hall, well, near the back of Liddell Hall, anyway. Anne?” he asked. “You look a bit tired.”

“Won’t a second be too much for him?” asked Anne, gesturing to the horse, who had recently been lame.

“He’s better now,” Dillon assured her. “And you’re definitely light enough. If I was as slim as you we he could carry three.” Fred nodded, and took Anne’s hand in his own, leading her across towards the horse. Dillon slid one foot out of the stirrup, and Fred helped Anne put her own foot in it, and hoisted her onto the horse, in front on Dillon. Dillon took the stirrup again, and smiled at Anne.

“See? Easy.”

“Thank you,” said Anne, both to Dillon and to Fred. Fred smiled, and then Dillon was off. Anne watched the scenery with dazed eyes. She was glad to be off her feet, thrilled to be on a horse again, and glad of Dillon’s friendly company. She owed everything to Frederick. Frederick had arranged it all, and placed her here with his own hands. He could not be unfeeling towards her, even if he hadn’t forgiven her. Dillon broke into Anne’s reverie with some inconsequential piece of gossip, and Anne readily replied. It was too hard to think about Fred right now.

Chapter Eleven:

Posted on Monday, 27 June 2005

The semester was about half done, and there was a short holiday approaching. As Anne and her fellow study abroad students wouldn’t be returning home, Charles, Louisa and Hetty decided to do likewise, and searched about for the perfect way to spend the holiday. The answer was provided through Frederick, by way of an unexpected letter.

The group was assembled in the television lounge at Liddell, a large room containing a number of upholstered chairs, a couch and a large television. Charles was watching football on the screen, with Hetty watching, also interested. Mary, bored by the game was filing her nails, and Anne had decided to try knitting. She hadn’t knitted in years, not since she was about fourteen, but after a few failures she found that the skill came easily back to her. She had borrowed a pair of knitting needles from her friend Eleni, and was busily working on a scarf, with some new wool she had bought one afternoon after class. It was to be striped with tan and blue, a blue very like the color of Frederick’s eyes (Anne chided herself for being so fond of the shade, even after there was no hope with Frederick), and was progressing decently well. Louisa was playing chess with Hayter, who had come to spend the rainy afternoon with the friends. Frederick had unexpectedly received a letter by the afternoon post, and was devouring it in one corner.

“Well, what is it?” asked Louisa, at last, tossing her long brown hair over her shoulder and smiling at him. “You’ve been smirking over there by yourself for long enough.”

“It’s from a friend of mine, Harville, from Brown. He’s been part of an international program, studying European geology. And for some reason he’s ended up in Lyme, and wants me to come visit.”

“Lyme!” cried Louisa. “Well, I’ve heard the coast has some amazing fossils and things. It must be nice for you to have him on this side of the ‘pond’.”

“It is nice to hear. Maybe I’ll spend the holiday down there.”

“Lyme’s a nice little place,” said Charles, turning off the television after watching his team lose in the final minutes of the game. “I wouldn’t mind seeing it again.”

“Nor I,” said Hetty, speaking up.

“”It’s perfect!” cried Louisa. “Fred it’s Providence. We needed a place to holiday, and here you’ve provided it. There’s a fairly inexpensive inn there I know. I’ll go call and see if they have rooms.”

“I’ve never been to Lyme,” piped up Mary.

“Then it will be a treat,” said Charles. “Not one of the world’s great metropolises, but quaint. The sea is beautiful, even this time of year.”

“The sea!” breathed Mary, her eyes shining. “I have to say I’ve missed it. Anne, we’re going to see the sea!”

Anne smiled. She didn’t exactly want to spend her holiday watching Louisa and Frederick become closer, but it seemed as if her friends wanted her company. Most had turned to gauge her reaction, so she spoke. “I haven’t seen Lyme either. It’ll be fun.”

“Oh, good!” cried Louisa. “This is perfect. The holiday with my best friends, at Lyme. I’ll call and book some rooms. Let’s see, six of us? I’ll book four rooms. That should be enough to share.” She dashed out of the room.

“To Lyme then,” said Frederick, bemused.

Lyme turned out to be a pleasant place. It was not overly developed, and was fairly small, but the company proved delightful. Both Charles and Hetty had obtained cars for the weekend, and three of the group went in each car. Mary and Anne went along with Charles, who delighted to show them various landmarks on the way. Mary was soon in quite a cheerful mood, especially after they had stopped and gotten a look at the sea. She’d lived near it almost all her life, and this half semester away had been difficult.

‘It’s funny,” she said to Anne, in a happy voice. “I wouldn’t have thought I’d miss something like that so much. And yet, here we are in this little hick resort, and I’m happy beyond anything, just because I can hear the waves and smell the salt.”

Anne smiled, happy for her friend. They checked into the bed and breakfast Louisa had ended up getting rooms at, and joined the others, who had arrived slightly before them, not having taken a scenic detour.

“Shall we go find Fred’s friends?” asked Louisa. The other agreed, and Frederick followed the directions they’d been given until they arrived at a small house, in which Harville’s group had taken rooms for the duration of the Lyme project. The door sprang open soon after Fred rang the bell, and another tall fair-haired American burst out, and clapped Fred eagerly on the back. Anne studied the new arrival. He was thinner than Frederick, and had brown eyes instead of blue. He was dressed in a pair of olive green canvas trousers and a grungy sweater, and Anne knew Mary would be wrinkling her nose. She avoided turning around. Instead, she studied the young man who had followed Harville out. He was shorter and stockier than the other two, but attractive. His hair was dark, as were his eyes, and he wore a slightly far-off expression, which was temporarily banished when he caught Frederick’s attention.

“James!” cried Fred. “I had no idea you were here too. This is fantastic.”

“Here?” asked James, amused. “I’m Harville's frickin’ roommate here.”

“James Benwick,” said Frederick, as introduction to the others. “James and I went to high school together. I had no idea he was here, or that he’d become chummy with my best friend at school.”

“Well, it someone kept in touch with their high school friends more than once every two years, you’d know. But it’s great to see you. We’ll have to catch up.”

“Yes,” said Frederick. He seemed about to ask something, but stopped himself. “What am I thinking? Let me introduce my friends to both of you fellows. This here is Charles Musgrove, an excellent fellow, and his girlfriend Mary. She and Anne are also study abroad-ers. We’ll be quite the American colony,” he said, with a grin. “And representing the English rose we have Hetty and Louisa.”

“Pleased to meet you all,” said Harville, with a grin. “Please come into our humble lodgings, it’s a bit chilly out and all. November and all.” The party soon filed in, and found themselves sitting in a crowded sitting room.

“How many of you are there here?” asked Frederick, as several other students passed through.

“Sixteen, last I knew,” said Harville. “Tea anyone? I’m getting quite fond of it.”

“I’ll take some,” said Hetty. Harville poured her a cup, and passed it over. Anne likewise accepted a cup, so as to have something to occupy herself with. She gazed about the room, taking in everything.

It wasn’t a very large room, but seated the eight friends pleasantly. None of the furniture looked as if it came from the same century, but was comfortable. Books, notebooks and rocks were scattered over every surface.

“So, what are you studying?” asked Frederick, also seeing them. “Last I knew you were in Italy.”

“We’ve been in quite a few places,” said Harville, settling onto a broad wooden bench padded with a rather gaudy cushion. “Italy and Iceland were the most exciting, I’d say. Now we’re doing research projects in smaller groups for the remaining weeks of the program. And our group is studying the Jurassic coast along here. I expect you saw the cliffs? Lower Jurassic and also some Triassic. And Cretaceous, but I’m not half as interested in that. And the fossils here... fantastic.”

“Sounds right up your alley,” said Frederick, grinning. “We were roommates freshman year, and this fellow took the introductory geology class. Maybe it’s not the strongest department out there, but it took him. I swear I had learned the identities of half the minerals out there and their formulae by midterm.”

“I bet you don’t remember any of them now,” challenged Harville, in a joking mood.

“Probably not most, but I’ll always remember Galena and Sphalerite.”

“Oh, choose to remember the easy ones, why don’t you,” said Harville.

“PbS and ZnS,” said Fred.

“If you’re going to remember formulae, you might at least do something impressive,” grumbled Harville. “Biotite? Kadinite? Limonite? Hornblende?”

“Can’t say I remember.”

“Idiot,” replied Harville, cheerfully.

“Do you remember the difference between mafic and felsic?” asked James, from his seat on an ottoman beside the fire.

“Something to do with the elements in them. Where do you go these days?” asked Frederick, studying James curiously.

“A place called Carleton.”

“Where’s that?” asked Mary.

“Minnesota. The Harvard of the Midwest. One of the best geology departments out there,” said Harville, with gusto.

“Why Minnesota?” asked Mary, wrinkling her nose.

“I was dating a girl from Minnesota at the time. And I’m a big frisbee player. We’ve got the highest rate of frisbees owned per capita.”

“I don’t think anyone would bother to compute that particular statistic over here,” said Louisa.

“Probably not,” agreed James. “But we like to play. But then, we have a lot of work too to balance all the fun out. After all, ‘If all the year were playing holidays, to sport would be as tedious as to work’. Henry IV. Part I”

“He’s a double major with English,” announced Harville, in a loud whisper. “Just be glad you haven’t caught him on one of his Romantic poetry outbursts.”

“How do you have time to double major and study abroad?” asked Anne, curious.

“Well, by taking very little else other than distributions and major courses. And I’m getting many credits through this program. It’s tough, but it’s what I want, and it’s good to be busy.” His face became serious, and the room fell quiet. A girl broke into the room, and apologized for intruding.

“James, do you have a minute? I’d like you to look over the report before I turn it in.”

“Ah, group work,” replied James, getting up. “I’ll be back. Let me know what’s up for dinner.” He exited, shutting the door firmly behind him.

“Is he all right?” asked Frederick, to Harville in a low voice.

“You mean about Phoebe? Enough.” He caught sight of the curious looks of Frederick’s friends, and elaborated briefly. “You might as well know, in case it comes up. James was seriously involved with this girl Phoebe, who died two years ago. He often mentions her.”

“The girl from Minnesota?” asked Anne, softly.

“Yes,” said Frederick. “She went to school with us.”

“I’m sorry,” said Louisa, touching his arm.”

“Well, it happened, and it was painful, but I’ve moved on,” said Frederick. “As James said, I’ve sort of lost touch with the high school crowd.”

A clock chimed out in the town.

“Is it five already?” asked Harville, in amazement. “Well, people eat later here, but what sort of dinner plans have you all made?”

“What’s good?” asked Frederick.

“The pubs seemed pretty good,” said Charles, “the last time I was here, anyway.”

“They are,” agreed Harville. “Especially the local seafood.”

“Did someone say local seafood?” asked Mary, eyes shining. “I think I’ve died and gone to heaven.”

Continued in Next Section