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Prologue

The howling wind and merciless rain beat against the sides of the small coach as it made its way up the nearly impassable lane. The occupants, two women and a small child, were clutching the sides of the coach as it was thrown around violently. Mind numbing lightning, followed seconds later by shattering thunder, did nothing for the passengers and even less for the coachman and the old horse that trudged determinedly through the storm.

"Mum," cried the little boy, "is God angry with us for leaving home?"

"Hush, child," said the older of the two women, "your mother is resting. Poor dear hasn't slept proper in weeks. She finally stopped fightin' it a few minutes ago. But don't you worry now, sweetums, God isn't raging at us this night."

At last the coachman saw that just over the next hill lay their destination. The house, which steadily grew larger, was dark and unwelcoming. It looked like so many other houses of this size and style, cutting a cold, hard edge onto the landscape in an attempt to tame the wildness of the hills. The old stone house stood like a sentinel on the land, daring the wind, rain, and all else that could be brought before it to try its hand at conquering the unyielding edifice; the rock had been worn down and smoothed from the years of Nature's abuse. The large windows that lined the front level, as well as the second, were dark and intimidating with panes missing or broken.

The coach slowly approached the house, as if asking permission to intrude on its silent, solitary watch. Lightning streaked across the sky as the travelers pulled to a stop. The younger woman awoke with a start. She looked out the coach window at the structure that they would call home, at least for a time. Despair rose and she fought it, beating it down with the little strength she had left. The coachman got down from his perch and helped the ladies and small boy from the carriage. He then lead the horse and coach around to the back of the house where he hoped to find some form of shed or barn to house the steady animal in for the remainder of the night.

The older lady, her gaze following the man for a moment, looked up at the house and then to the pale woman beside her and asked, "Well, my lady, should we be goin' in then?"

"Yes, Hanna. We had better. If the lightening does not strike us, then we will catch our deaths from the cold rain," replied the woman softly.

"Mum, can I go and help Mr. Williamson get Strawberry settled in for the night?" asked the boy with a hopeful look on his cherubic face.

His mother looked at him with a small smile but replied, "No, Eric. Mr. Williamson can handle everything fine on his own this evening. You can help him some other time. Now, let's go inside and see what adventures await us there."

The older woman sighed and said a quick prayer as she followed the lady and her son into the large, dark house that they had put all of their hope into. "Please Lord, let us be safe here and bring my lady back from the sorrow and fear that have dogged her steps these many years. She deserves naught but the best in this world, as you well know."

Chapter One

Now hours later, sitting atop his gray hunter, the man surveyed the landscape. Clouds were moving across the sky as the sun fought for its place above them. The landscape was beautiful, yet harsh. Even with the imprint of man on the land with pastures for grazing and fields for planting, there was still a wildness that dwelled just out of sight. The rolling hills with rocks and boulders jutting from the ground reminded the rider of scars left over from great a struggle. The man knew that the rocks, marring the landscape were small scars compared to the internal ones. He, himself, was scarred deeply, to the core of his soul, yet not one mark was visible on his skin. Bitterness, anger, and hatred, of himself, tainted his heart, mind, and soul leaving behind coldness and black despair.

The man knew he was a shell of what he once was. All the hope and joy had been brutally ripped from his life by his own choices and blindness towards others and their faults and gifts. He was different and the unhappiness or despair that plagued his steps was not something to resent because he knew that those feelings were his punishment. Forcibly, the haunted rider shook himself mentally. "Another day begins," he thought, "let's see what it has in store for us" Then patting his horse's neck he said aloud, "Come, my friend, let us get some breakfast and think no longer on the past, at least for today." He then turned and slowly descended from his perch high upon a hill, allowing his horse to find the way, while his dark thoughts continued to hound him regardless of his pronouncement moments before.

Upon returning to the stable, he encountered the sight of people moving through the routines of their day. He saw his stable master, Mr. Webb, directing two boys towards the row of stalls that needed mucking. Another young man was sweeping out the tack room, while one within was cleaning and organizing the myriads of pieces of tack and paraphernalia that went along with the daily use of horses on an estate. A group of men were clustered around a mountain of a man, Mr. Criss, who told them which field they were to work that day.

A couple of the men saw the lone rider as he came into the stable yard and greeted him. Responding in kind he dismounted and made quick work of removing the tack and brushing down his horse. Stroking the animal's face he said, "Thank you for taking care of me again, my friend. My mind was not on riding this morning much less where we were going. I know I am safe with you." With that he turned and called to the boy who had been sweeping.

"Colin, come and put Ghost's blanket on him and make sure that he is cooled down before you put him in his stall. Tell Mr. Webb to give him a carrot in his feed this morning. I know how much you like Ghost so I'll not worry as to his care. He knows a good lad when he meets one and you are one of his favorites."

The 16-year-old boy, though not looking a day over 14, approached the 16.2 hand horse with a smile of pure pleasure. "Yes sir, Mr. Bertram. Ghost is my favorite too, sir."

Patting the boy on the shoulder, Edmund Bertram, strode over to where his stable master was going over a list of duties for the day. "Everything in order then, Webb?"

The man had an ageless look. Edmund had never had the inclination to ask how old Webb was, content with knowing that the older man had always been a part of the fabric that made Northbridge Manor what it was. The resident enigma was Henry Webb's part in the play that was life at the estate. While gentle to all who were kind to him, he always kept people at a distance. Edmund still considered Webb a friend despite the reserve. Webb was a man of medium build with iron gray hair that never would be tamed. Years of working and riding horses had made him a strong man. His eyes were as gray as his hair but they could change from looking warm, when working with a horse to becoming ice cold if he caught anyone mistreating another. Lord, help the fool that ever purposefully harmed a human or horse in the presence of Webb. A quiet man, by nature, Webb became as silent as Death when enraged.

Edmund had seen him almost beat a man to death had three men not pulled him off. The rage that consumed Webb that one instance was understandable. The man Webb attacked had savagely abused one of his horses to beyond recovery and had started in on his own son. Edmund remembered the day little battered and half starved Colin had come to live on the estate, after his father abandoned him. He refused to talk to anyone save Webb and made an instant connection with Ghost which both men encouraged. Now, almost four years later, Colin was thriving. While still shy around most people, the boy showed great promise when it came to horses and Webb had effectually told Edmund he was training Colin to be his assistant.

Looking up Webb studied Edmund Bertram for a time. He saw a man still young in age but old and weary in his soul and heart. The dark brown hair was not touched by gray but the small lines around the green eyes and the grim set of the mouth told their own story. Webb respected Edmund more than the young man knew and he vowed to help Edmund in whatever the younger man asked of him. Nodding Webb replied to his employer's inquiry, "Yes, Mr. Bertram. There are a few things that will keep me busy today. I'm going to start training on the new gelding you brought in from Mansfield Park last month. I think he will make a good hunter for next season."

"Pride will make someone a good mount in time. He has settled down since we brought him here. Tom is hoping that Pride will be the horse to bring attention to his breeding of top quality hunters. We have talked and decided that we should keep all the horses in training here so as to let you finish them out. You are the best trainer that I have ever met and with the popularity of the sport among high society I believe we may be able to supplement and even equal the profits that are made from the farm and tenant side of the estate with the breeding and sale of quality hunting horses. With your help I hope to make Northbridge Manor a place known for its equines."

Shaking his head Webb responded, "The real credit should go to the horses. Bloodlines are important but so is attitude and temperament. Horses with champions in their history can be impossible to train. The first horse I ever trained to jump a wall did not have any bloodlines that made him stand out but he was amazing to watch at work. Now I know that there are many animals with strong blood history's that have become great hunters but it really comes down to whether the horse likes to jump and wants to keep jumping. Attitude is the key. Believe me, Pride is the best to come out Mansfield's stable so far. And with the steps you are taking to bring the breeding here to Northbridge, I believe that we will be great."

Grinning at his employee, but more importantly his friend, Edmund responded, "Webb, you really must learn to take compliments. They are not painful." The older man smiled but said nothing. Edmund continued grinning and asked, "You will let me know when you are going to work Pride? I would like to watch and hopefully learn more about the animals that will help to give us the distinction that we lack." Webb nodded and Edmund continued, "Excellent, now I need to go and discuss plans with Criss."

Edmund strode over to where Robert Criss, his farm manager, was talking to a dozen or more men. "Now le's not be wastin' our time today boys." Edmund heard Criss say. "We needs to be gettin' the southwest fields ready for harvesting. We need to go through and thin out the corn. Charlie, you, Paul and Tom, there get Pearl and Rose hitched up to the wagon and go start on the far end. James, Will, and Ethan, you get Devil and Angel hitched and start at the other end. Be sure you put all the corn that you pull up in the wagons. We'll use it to feed the chickens for a few days. Now the rest of you lot need to start turnin' over those new fields that we finished clearin' off. Got to hav' em' ready for the fall plantin'. I see most of you brought your own horses and plows to use, thanks for that. We've had a nice bit of rain so the ground should be givin' nicely. I'll be here working here on some plans for the new fields most of the morning. Then I'll come out and make sure you aren't lazin' around!" There was a long pause and then a bellow from Criss, "Well get goin'!" The men jumped and then they looked at Criss and saw that he was laughing. Grinning at each other they headed towards the barn with the workhorses and farm equipment, which was behind and to the left of the main stable.

Turning to the right Criss saw his employer and said, "Bertram, you look like you need a drink of Ol' Criss' ale."

Edmund chuckled in response to the unorthodox greeting and said, "Criss, you know that I cannot, normally, turn down your offer but it only being..." Edmund looked at his pocket watch, "7:30 in the morning I will have to decline your tempting proposal."

"Oh come now sir," cried Criss. "Surely, you know that a little in the mornin' will help you look on the day in a better and brighter light."

"No, no, Robert. I may, however, take you up on that offer later in the day," replied Edmund with a mischievous smile. The easy and informal way that he and Criss spoke to one another was as natural as breathing for them both. Even though their relationship was not within the confines expected and accepted behavior between landowners and their employees, Criss had proven his dedication and earned the respect of Edmund, who found Criss' bluntness refreshing in a world of governed by etiquette and restriction.

"I'll hold you to it, sir. Don't you doubt me either! Now what was it you were wantin' to talk to me about?"

"I just wanted to make sure that you had enough workers today."

"Oh, yes, sir! Had about 15 men show up today. You know, that idea of yours was just the ticket. Havin' your tenant farmers come in once every three weeks to work the main estate land in exchange for payin' less in rent. They're changed men! I think now they have a sense of pride not only in their land that they rent and work but the land that you live on too. I've been livin' here 30 years and never have I seen such a thing. It's almost a miracle, sir. We made more profit this last spring selling last year's early harvest and fall harvest than has ever been made before. You know how well we did this year, almost double what we took in last early harvest."

Edmund nodded saying, "As you well know, when my brother bought Northbridge from Yates and asked me to make something of it, the property had deteriorated from the neglect of having a master who never bothered to set foot on it. You and Webb are the reasons this is working out. You know the people from this area. I'm lucky to have you both."

"Now sir, you're makin' me blush, you are! Old man like me is set in his ways but you have a way with people, a way of changin' em, helpin' 'em to see what they can be. I thought you were a crazy when you came here with all these ideas about making the poor farmer not feel less because he wasn't lord of the manor or educated. You made the people see that they could be better by helping them to realize that everyone plays a part in the success of the estate."

Edmund stood there; uncomfortable with the praise Criss was giving him. "Now, Robert, you are being too kind. Let us not talk about how I can change people; we both know that is not true. I just treated people with respect and showed them that I was not someone to fear. Changing people is impossible. Believe me I've tried to change people and it was in vain," he said with a bitter note. Taking a quick cleansing breath Edmund changed the subject with ease, "What field are you having the men work today?"

Clearing his throat Criss replied, "Well I've sent most them to the big south field where we put all the corn last year. Thinkin' of puttin' some winter wheat out there that we can harvest in early March and sell at the market to all those farmers with starvin' livestock because they didn't put enough up for the winter. The others I sent to the field west of the big southern one to thin out the corn that we planted there."

Edmund nodded and stood there for a moment thinking about more than just winter wheat and south fields. "Yes," he replied absentmindedly, "I think that will do fine. Well, I had better be off. Have to tend to the some issues that can wait no longer. Thank you Criss for all your hard work. If you need me I will be in my study."

"Oh! Right you are, sir. Can't be seen dawdlin' about when there's work ta be done. My men would begin to wonder an' we can't hav' that. I'll be seein' you then, sir!"

With that, the giant of a man turned and strode off. Edmund shook his head, smiling, turned and walked toward the house. As he made his way across the lawn he thought back to when he first met Criss. It was the first day Edmund had seen the estate. Overwhelmed and discouraged he had almost gasped when Robert Criss entered the study. He invariably filled the huge doorway. No less than 6'5", Criss was a giant. Forearms the size of Christmas hams, with shoulders that could easily carry a small cow while pulling the cart the poor animal had been hopelessly trying to haul. He had legs the size of trees. His hair was flaming red and curly and with the green eyes and brows, so white they were almost invisible, he was a site to behold. Regardless of his size, Robert Criss was among the kindest men that Edmund had ever known. His face was, more often than not, split in a wide welcoming smile and his eyes twinkled with humour and mischief.

Right from the start Edmund knew that they would be friends. The man knew more about the land and its people than Edmund could ever hope to know. Criss could name off what every tenant had planted in their personal gardens for the last 5 years, at least that was as far as Edmund had let Criss get before stopping him. It had been Criss' hard work that had kept the people of the area from starvation when Yates had let Northbridge fade from memory and into complete disrepair. Criss kept the place precariously balanced on the line of ruin and had won the respect of all who knew him. Edmund had no question in his mind that this man would see to it that Northbridge Manor returned to the glory it once knew.

Edmund had been right. Considerable improvements were made during the first three years. The land became fruitful again and people became happier and stronger. As much as Edmund tried to lessen his involvement in the turn around, the people still hailed him as the estate and its tenants' savior. He came up from Mansfield with a drive and burning need to forget the past and its pain. Throwing himself into his brother's pet project seemed like the way to do it. Even Tom had been surprised at the fervor that seemed to possess Edmund. It had always been the opposite. The elder brother had given himself over to obsessions, while the younger was reserved. Yet in this instance Edmund had flung himself into the disorderly fray that was Northbridge Manor with such a determination that many of servants in the house feared for their master's health. Fourteen to sixteen hour days were common during that first year. So alarmed with these actions that were reported to him, Tom came up to the estate. Under the pretense of checking up, Tom observed his brother's change and demanded that he slow down before Death came knocking and Edmund, too tired to notice whom his visitor was, opened the door and invited the scythe-carrying guest in for tea and crumpets followed closely by a nice cool bed six feet under.

That was two years ago and since then Edmund had settled into an easy routine. Northbridge was no longer Tom's pet project; he had officially signed the deed over to Edmund six months before much to the shock of his younger brother. They had grown closer during the past few years. Tom had matured and discovered that he had a head for business; while Edmund knew people and how to encourage and help them; even though he questioned himself continuously. With these different traits the brothers freely exchanged advice, mistakes, encouragement, and information on how to prosper both estates. The major difference between them was Northbridge; Edmund's proof to the world that he was a man and a good one. Mansfield Park was inherited and already established and stable, while Northbridge had been on the brink of disaster. Five years later the manor had prospered beyond Tom's expectations and he knew that it was because of Edmund. The letters that they exchanged and the few visits Tom had made to Northbridge showed Tom and rest of the family that Edmund was more and had been more than any of them gave him credit for.

Late that afternoon a knock at his study door brought a long sigh from the occupant. After a moment to take a deep breath, Edmund bade the person to enter. The ancient butler, Albert, who was resolutely deaf, entered and loudly announced the visitor.

James Laurence advanced into the room with the air of a man who knew himself and cared not for how the world thought of him. He was the same height as Edmund, yet broader. The mop of curly black hair and heavy brow gave him a brooding look. His ice blue eyes were the envy of many a maid and lady in the area who desired nothing more than a glance from them to solidify their infatuation. As much as his look and demeanor screamed, "rake," James was not. He allowed the cloak of misconception to settle comfortably around his shoulders for the simple reason that it kept the meddling mothers from all but throwing their daughters through the window of his bedchamber in their efforts to have there "precious" daughters married. He often thanked Edmund for moving into the area for the simple reason that the before mentioned mothers now had new meat to consider.

They had become friends over the past few years, at first for simple survival and protection against the meddlesome and determined matchmakers. Despite this necessity the friendship grew into a strong bond. James had only been living permanently in the area for two years before Edmund. He had been in the Navy and after a "brilliant" career; making his fortune with the loot from the French and Spanish ships that he commandeered and through savvy business decisions, decided to retire in order to spend time with his now late father. Edmund had never asked what was "brilliant" about James' naval career but trusted that it probably had something to do with his accumulated wealth. His father had died not long after Edmund moved to Northbridge and they both found solace in each other's grief. James in the loss of a father and Edmund the loss of something he never thought he would or could lose, love. They hunted together, got stark raving drunk together in the safety of one another's homes, and listened to each other rant during those drunken states about the life and anything else that came to mind. One conversation they had which they use as blackmail against each other was when they dueled over what kind of wood the marvelous table in the library at Northbridge was made of. Edmund swore that it was oak, while James stood firm on the choice of cherry. Both were wrong, as it turned out. Quite loudly and painfully due to their hangovers, Albert the deaf butler, informed both of them the following day that the table was in fact mahogany.

"Good afternoon, Laurence. How are things?" asked Edmund with a forced smile as he looked up at his friend.

"Well, Bertram, besides the fact that you looked like you have just smelled rotten eggs when I entered the room, I am quite well," came the answer. Looking at him closely James continued into the room and sat down one on the chairs placed before Edmunds desk. "So, old boy, what are you brooding about today?"

Grinning wearily Edmund countered, "I do not brood. You brood. I am thoughtful but not today, so that should answer your question."

"Ahhh...I see. You are mindless then. Because you are neither brooding nor thoughtful, which both require the use of the brain. By your own words you deny doing both. We know that you only do one or the other. As a result, I can safely surmise that you are brainless. Hmmm...interesting. I think I shall write straight away to London about this anomaly. I know an excellent physician who would love to poke and prod you to his hearts content; and seeing as that you do not have a brain, you will not care in the least. Well, I'll be off then," concluded James. Rising to leave he saw the blank look on Edmund's face. James then knew that Edmund had not heard most of what he had said. 'Pity,' he thought, 'I was so enjoying myself.'

Sighing wearily Edmund replied, "Oh, sit down James. You make me weary with your games of wit."

"Don't blame me, my friend! You began our game of wit with your comment. But I do not wish to be too annoying so I will cease," countered James. "What troubles you, Bertram? You are quite melancholy today."

"Nothing of consequence, really, just wallowing in the past," replied the haunted looking man

"If I am going to have to drag it out of you," began James looking down at Edmund." "That does it! Up! UP!!! We're getting out of here for a while. I don't want to hear it and you are most assuredly not going to share unless I lay siege to your study and I simply do not have the strength and you certainly do not have enough brandy! You need to get out and breathe some fresh air. Plus, I can show you what I came to tell you instead," said James forcefully.

Edmund looked up as his friend sharply and saw the rock hard determination in the set of his jaw and the uncompassionate glint in his eyes. James stared right back and continued, "Every year around this time you fall into a black despair that I have never seen in another living creature. I've known you 5 years Edmund and I have never delved into your past, as you have not delved into mine, for that I thank you. However, I can no longer stand by and let you do this to yourself. Self-pity and melancholy will get you nowhere. You are responsible for the well-being and lives of all of your tenants and those that work in your house. Are you so blind and selfish that you think that they do not notice your moods and are not affected by them? These people respect you for what you have done at Northbridge but every year you cause them to worry about you because of this mood that you fall into. It's enough to make a..."

"ENOUGH!" roared Edmund, as he rose to his feet and came around his desk to face James. "You have NO right to come in here and dictate to me. You know nothing..."

"Exactly!" crowed James, as he interrupted. "I know nothing of your life before you came here. What happened? Were you betrayed? Did you do someone else harm and can't forgive yourself? Did you love a lady and lose her to death? What is..."

But whatever James was going to say was forever lost when Edmund's fist connected with the left side of James' face. James Laurence was as tall as Edmund yet he had a more muscular build due to the years at sea. However, Edmund's punch left James' head ringing, as he stumbled back trying to recover from the blow Edmund was charging at him again. James landed his own decisive blow to the right side of Edmund's face. Both men staggered away from each other and subsequently crashed to the floor several feet apart.

Gasping for breath both men looked at each other grimly. As they made their way to their feet both continued to watch one another warily. Edmund spoke first.

"I apologize for losing control."

Cold blue eyes glittered with fury and there was a moment when Edmund thought James might launch himself across the room. "Explain yourself." came the response through gritted teeth.

Running a hand over his face Edmund took a deep breath and replied "That is the first time since I was a boy that I have hit anyone and then it was only my brother and I. It is just I'm not used to being confronted. There was only one person who ever challenged me and always did so with the sweetest heart but that person is lost to me forever. Having you call attention to something that I have for so long struggled to suppress and conceal from all is maddening."

James saw in Edmund's face an inner struggle taking place. "Bertram, do not feel like you need to say anything more. If I had known how deeply you were hurt I would never have presumed to force an answer from you. Forgive my blunder," came the quiet response.

"Do not apologize for being a friend," countered Edmund as he offered his hand to James as a sign of peace, apology, and forgiveness. Taking the proffered hand to shake, James looked at his friend and grinned.

"We are two sorry looking cads, Bertram"

Grinning broadly back Edmund replied, "That we are, James, that we are. I seem to have given you a gift that will be visible for sometime. I am sure, from the feel of it, that your gift will bring about equally visible results." Edmund gingerly fingered the quickly swelling skin below his right eye.

"I assure you that my eye will be several colorful shades before it is all said and done," James said as he finished his own inspection.

Suddenly serious Edmund started, "Laurence, I count you among my closet friends. I am by nature not an open man. However, I need you to know some of my past so that you may understand these black moods that fall on me sometimes." James began to say something but Edmund cut him off with, "No, my friend, I feel that I owe it to you. Perhaps you can give me back some of the wisdom that I gave to you when your own father died. My story is not long and I will not tarry long on the details unless you are confused. I am relying on your quick mind to keep up."

Edmund spent the next half hour relating to James the few years prior to his arrival at Northbridge. Edmund had married a beautiful woman named Mary Crawford shortly after his ordination as a clergyman in the Church of England just four years before he came to Northbridge. They had a wonderful first year of marriage, full of love and laughter. Mary was all energy and light; never still when there were things to do and people to talk to and about. Like a butterfly, Mary flitted around never content with her situation. At first, Edmund believed that Mary was just excited about her new life. However, the truth made itself known one evening when discussing Tom, Edmund's brother.

Tom had become deathly ill the previous year. Edmund and Mary did not get married until he was over the worst. He continued to have bouts of weakness in which he would be confined to bed for weeks at a time in order to recover. It was during one of those times that the proverbial scales were removed from Edmund's eyes. Mary very calmly and clearly stated that should Tom die of his illness that Edmund would be the heir. She continued in this appalling monologue by stating that it would horrible to lose a brother but that should Fate decide to take Tom, she believed that Edmund and herself could become the toast of the Ton. These statements from his wife revolted Edmund.

After that fateful day Edmund rarely spoke with Mary except to inquire after her good health. What love he had for her ended the moment Edmund saw, heard, and understood her mercenary mindset. Over the next few months his sermons took on a decidedly more convicting tone; entreating his parishioners to search for contentment and peace in their spiritual walk with the Lord and not the material things so many others sought. These sermons, while subtle, were not lost on Mary. She told him that should he decide to continue with those condemning sermons she would divorce or worse cuckold him. Such threats were taken seriously. Edmund acquiesced and their public life returned to normal for a time, however, both were on their guard around each other.

The day of reckoning came when Edmund received a letter from his sister Maria, who was in London. Mary had decided to visit her friend and sister-in-law six weeks before the letter's arrival. The letter informed Edmund that his wife had abandoned all her friends and run off to the continent with a French nobleman she had met at one the balls in town. Humiliated and outraged Edmund closed himself off for weeks from everyone. He drank more than he ever had before, preferring to drown his troubles in the excellent bottles of port and brandy that his brother kept in large supply. He ceased to preach on Sundays and a visiting clergyman was called to fill the absence. During that time Edmund became an angry and bitter man; lashing out at the smallest provocation. Tom finally broke through the drunken stupor by demanding that Edmund have his attorney draw up papers for a divorce and immediately leave for the North. Edmund then learned that Tom had gone and bought an estate from his old friend, Yates. He did it as a favor to Yates to help out of eminent financial ruin; Tom all but stole one of the largest estates in the northern part of England from him. After hearing this news Edmund scoffed at the idea. Tom informed him that he could sober up and return to his duties as the local pastor or take on the job of bringing Northbridge out of ruin. If he did not like either of those then he could leave all together and never return. The ploy worked; within a fortnight Edmund was at Northbridge.

"That was five years ago, Laurence, this month. You asked why I become so melancholy this time of year; the reason is now known to you. My bitterness towards Mary continues to this day but not for leaving me. She had never truly been with me. I know that now. Mary thought of herself first, last, and only, well except for her brother. She did love him. My willingness to be deceived and the naiveté that I once knew will always haunt me. It is now that I realize that while I was a husband to Mary, I loved another before, during, and after her betrayal. This love that I speak of is for the wife of Mary's brother, my cousin Fanny. She and I grew up together, more brother and sister than anything. She was a constant island of peace in my life. Fanny was so strong and humble. It was not until a few years after Mary left that I finally faced that demon." With a sigh Edmund leaned his head over and rubbed his temples with his right hand. "And that, good friend, is my story"

Clearing his throat James responded, "I would be lying if I said that I wasn't shocked. Forgive my intrusion into matters that are not my own."

Shaking his head Edmund replied, "No. I thank you for knocking some sense into me. Telling you has given me some relief."

There was a long silence in which both men sat, lost in thought. Edmund taking deep breaths. James sat with a pained look on his face. He was noticeably pale and Edmund broke the silence, "James are you quite well?"

"What? Oh, oh yes, sorry. I was just mulling over it all. Quite the saga you have there, old man."

"Yes, well we all have one. James, I must again apologize for my earlier actions. Punching you was..." Edmund began grinning, "was really quite a relief. Being able to focus all my anger on something and then releasing it was freeing."

James looked at his friend and returned the grin, albeit ruefully, "Well, I am glad to know that I was useful in some manner during this debacle." After a short pause he continued, "Come on, let's go riding. I've something that I need to show you as well as discuss with you."

With that Edmund summoned Albert the deaf butler and loudly told him to have their 'horses readied for their ride'. The ancient butler puttered off mumbling to himself about the strangeness of Mr. Bertram wanting his 'orchids readied to be fried'. 'He doesn't have any orchids,' thought the butler as he made his way to the kitchens to tell Penelope about another strange request from their master.

Chapter Two

"WHAT IS IT, ALBERT?" cried Penelope.

Albert looked up and shaking his head he replied, "THE MASTER IS WANTING SOME FRIED ORCHIDS AGAIN. WHAT DO YOU SUPPOSE HE WANTS THEM FOR? WE DON'T HAVE ANY ORCHIDS IN THE GARDEN. HE IS ALWAYS WANTING FRIED ORCHIDS."

Penelope almost lost her control when Albert had finished bellowing. Over the years she had become quite adept at translating the requests that Albert brought to her from Mr. Bertram. Everyone pretty much turned a blind eye to Albert, even if they could not turn a deaf ear. He had been with the house since his birth. His mother had been the head cook for 40 years and his father the butler for 30. Penelope had been trained by Albert's mother to take her place and Albert was a kind of surrogate father. He spent the holidays with Penelope and Robert Criss in their small cottage on the Northbridge grounds. Penelope always had time for the older man and loved him like a father.

"OH, I KNOW WHAT HE WANTS, ALBERT. HE IS WANTING TO GO RIDING AGAIN."

Albert looked at Penelope and grinned, "I KNEW THAT HE DID NOT WANT FRIED ORCHIDS BUT I HAD TO ASK, MY DEAR."

"YES, ALBERT, YOU ARE VERY GOOD. NOW, WHY DON'T YOU GO AND HAVE THAT NEW FOOTMAN, WILLIAM, TELL WEBB TO READY MR. BERTRAM AND MR. LAURENCE'S HORSES."

Nodding Albert turned and began shuffling out while saying, "THANK YOU, PENELOPE DEAR. YOU ALWAYS KNOW WHAT THE MASTER WANTS." Waving the old man left the kitchen. Penelope looked around at her girls to see smiles of affection on their heat-reddened faces. They all loved Albert too and each found time to make little treats for the man when they had extra time or ingredients. Two of the other cooks were Penelope's own daughters and thought of Albert as a grandfather. Looking at them she smiled, sharing the mutual love with those around her. "Alright, girls. Now we can get to work. Albert's been here and checked up on us. How is that mincemeat coming Sofie?"

The two gentlemen were eventually told that their horses were ready. Albert announced it quite forcefully and the men, who had been quietly talking to each other about the books they been acquiring for their steadily growing libraries, each started in surprise at the loud voice. They both looked at each other while chuckling at Albert and then made their way out of the study and down the wide passage to the large open entrance hall to retrieve their gloves, hats, and coats.

"You really must do something about that butler," said James grinning as they walked across the lawn to the stables. "He almost deafened me...again."

Edmund smiled saying, "Albert is more of a permanent fixture in the house than I ever will be. I think he was actually here when they built the place. No, he will remain until he decides to turn his duties over. He is too stubborn to allow death to stop him."

Laurence laughed out right at this response from Edmund, before he could reply a young boy whom James thought was named Colin came up to them.

"Good Afternoon, Colin," called Edmund, confirming James' memory.

"Good Afternoon, Sir," replied Colin. "Master Webb has sent me to fetch you, Sir. He is just about to work with that gelding, Pride."

"Oh really! Excellent!" exclaimed Edmund. Turning to James he asked, "Do you mind if we watch for a bit, Laurence? This new horse has just come up from Mansfield and Webb has yet to put him through his paces."

Shaking his head James replied, "Not at all, after all I will get a chance to see the best horseman in the North at work. Perhaps I can continue with my efforts to steal him away from you, Bertram. We both know that you do not truly appreciate the man."

"I would like to see you try!" retorted Edmund grinning. "Webb is here to stay...for good."

"Well, you don't have to be so gleeful as you romp all over my hopes of making Leighton the fox-hunting capital of the North."

"Come, my friend," said Edmund clapping James on the back. "Let us go sooth your wound by observing a true master at work."

The two men with the boy leading the way, made their way around the far side of the horse stable. It was there that Webb had built an arena in which to train. As the group approached they saw Webb leading a large bay horse with a saddle already on its back into the arena. They could see that he was calmly talking to the horse as it turned its head from one side to the other in order to take in all of its surroundings. The men and boy all came up and leaned on the chest high fence preparing to watch Webb.

"That is a fine animal," said James after a few moments of silence. "The finest I have seen come out of your brothers stock. Why in God's name did he geld him? Just think about what he could have sired."

Edmund nodded, "I asked his that myself in my letter to him last week. Tom loves horses but that does not mean he has eye for them. He sees them more as a profitable endeavor than for enjoyment now whereas before he would have truly seen and appreciated what we all see here. However, Webb seems to think that Pride is better off. Apparently, Pride was almost uncontrollable as a yearling and two year old. They waited quite late to geld him; he was almost three. He is now four and Webb wants to see how he likes jumping fences. We have hopes of making him into a fine foxhunting mount. Besides we still have his sire and dam at Mansfield, with any luck we'll be able to get a few more similar to Pride."

"Well, a finer piece of horse flesh I have not in a good while. You have done well for yourself Edmund. Are you still planning on moving your family's breeding operation up here to Northbridge?" asked James.

"That is my plan. Tom does not have the time, interest, or the land to really start a first rate breeding and training estate. Whereas, Northbridge has land that has yet to be even fenced in. My hope is to bring up a dozen or so brood mares and Pride's sire. We unfortunately do not have the room to house all the breeding stock. However, my plan is to reinvest all of this year's profits back into building some newer and larger barns as well as having some acreage fenced in and prepared to support the herd. Webb has most of it figured out in his head. Remind me to ask you something later about this," said Edmund as he continued to watch Webb.

The horseman was now standing quietly talking to the horse and stroking its neck. He turned and began walking around the arena and the small two-foot fences that had been set up. Webb walked all the way around each fence letting Pride look at each and sniff it if he wished. After a few minutes, Webb stopped and looked up at the group along the fence. He nodded and Colin slowly climbed through the rungs of the fence and approached the man and horse. When he was within an arms distance Colin reached out with his right hand, palm up, and let Pride breathe in his scent. Colin slowly reached up and stroked Pride's cheek as the great horse lowered his nose sniffing at the boy's pockets. The boy smiled and looked up at Webb.

"Been giving him treats, have you boy?" asked Webb with a sparkle in this gray eyes.

"Not all the time, Master Webb. Just when he's been good," said the boy quickly.

Grinning, the man nodding in understanding and replied, "Just be sure you don't start him on a biting habit." The boy shook his quickly in the negative. "Well then give me a leg up and then go back and stand with Mr. Bertram and Mr. Laurence." With that Webb put the reins over Pride's head and gathered them up. Bending his left leg at the knee Webb felt Colin grasp his ankle and mid-way up his shin. "All right, on three then," he said to Colin. With the grace of a dancer Webb used Colin as leverage to lift himself into the saddle. Once in place he made sure his stirrups were the proper length. He had decided to ride with them longer today in order to give him more lower leg contact with Pride. Jumping was not on the agenda for the day so the shorter stirrup length in order to properly rise from the saddle when jumping was not necessary. Pride had already been broken to ride but Webb wanted to see how responsive the horse was to a new rider and new surroundings.

Webb did not ask much of Pride during the first quarter of an hour. However, the horseman began to sense restlessness in the horse. Slowly, Webb began to ask for more and Pride responded with either the correct action or at least attempted to do what Webb asked of him. After 30 minutes Webb was satisfied with what he had discovered about the horse's nature and ability. Riding slowly over to the fence he greeted Edmund with a nod. "Well, sir, I think we'll make a hunter out of him yet. He gets bored easily which means that he is a quick study. Your brother's trainer has made a good start with Pride so far. I was not expecting him to respond to leg commands but as you can see Pride yields to the pressure. He may become confused for a while when we first start him over the fences. I think that he will like them though. It's a challenge that I think he is ready for."

"Well, Webb, from what I've seen he looks like an amazing horse. I think I'll give Ghost a rest for a while and use Pride as my horse to travel around the estate on. It may do him good to be in different situations," replied Edmund.

"That it would, sir," responded Webb. "I think that may the best thing for him at least for a few weeks. Just ride him how you would Ghost. He is a little more sensitive in the mouth but you don't saw the horses mouth anyway so I don't worry about you, sir"

"Yes, until I met you I really was an awful rider. Oh I could sit the horse well enough but it never occurred to me that how I rode was really hard on the horse." Turning to James Edmund continued, "I used to pull and yank and saw at my horses mouths until Webb here explained to me that sensitivity of a horse. It's really quite interesting. Now, have you ever wondered why on some horses you have to pull and pull in order to get them turn but then on others a gentle tug on the rein and horse moves smoothly and without much effort from either party? This has to do with the sensitivity of the horse. If you start out training a horse roughly and harshly then it develops a higher threshold of tolerance. However, if you remain gentle but consistent the horse will respond to the smallest pressure from a leg or pull from a rein."

James nodding replied, "You know my father used to have this horse that you almost had to pull the rein off in order to get him to move in any direction. We all just thought he was stubborn but now that I think about it he had been treated badly by another owner."

"Would that be the chestnut your father favored so much in his later years, Mr. Laurence?" inquired Webb.

"Yes, as a matter of fact it was."

"I remember your father coming to me and asking what could be done. That horse was in bad shape and I told your father to be use the same amount pressure each time he asked for a turn but to keep asking until the horse responded. You father came back to me about three months later and said that the horse was responding to the smallest pressure on his mouth. That was a good horse for your father, gentle and kind yet sturdy. I never saw him take a bad step," Webb said

James looked at Webb for a moment before responding, "Roch was a good horse. He died about six months after father. It was really quite strange. Almost as if Roch knew that his master was gone. I took him out a few times shortly after father's death and was not the same horse. Father loved him."

Everyone was silent for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts of loved ones lost and companions like Roch that come around but rarely. As each man came back to from their recollections they looked at one another in understanding and not a little amusement. James was the first to break the quiet, "I swear Webb I do not think I have ever heard you speak so much in one conversation. I must say you almost shocked me into muteness."

"If only we were that lucky," came the dry reply from Edmund. "You talk enough for all of us here and are making quite the challenger to some of the women in the neighborhood."

James feigned a hurt expression. "Bertram, you are becoming as quick witted as they come. Webb knows I mean no harm."

"That I do, sir. But its like Mr. Bertram says you do talk enough for two men at least," Webb said with a grin.

"NOW I can go to my grave a happy man," hooted Edmund. "Webb, has just royally insulted you, Laurence and I can think of no better thing to end this conversation on than that. Come on my friend, let's go riding before Webb and his sharp tongue make quick work of us all."

With that Edmund and James bade farewell to Webb and Colin and headed back towards the stable to fetch their horses. Once they were mounted they moved off toward the eastern edge of the estate that was bordered by Leighton, James' ancestral estate. While smaller in terms of acreage and tenants than Northbridge, Leighton had some of the best farmland in the north and it yielded an equal or more crops at harvest than that of Northbridge in a season. James could frequently be seen riding with Edmund on his rounds to visit the tenants of Northbridge. Over the years this had become something of a joke amongst the neighboring estates tenants and laborers. Many thought that Mr. Laurence should just sell the rest of his farmland to Mr. Bertram since the former really did not show much interest in farming. Others theorized that Mr. Bertram was waiting until Mr. Laurence got into financial straights and would then make an offer for the whole estate. What those people did not know was that most of the Laurence wealth was acquired through foreign investment. Since Old Mr. Laurence's death, James Laurence had almost doubled the size of his father's bank accounts with savvy business decisions and all from the comfort of his estate in the north. James liked the quite life and had grown to love the peace that he had found in the north, though he would always miss the sea.

As the men rode through the wide lanes that divided field from field and house from house they discussed James' newest business venture, banking.

"But you know nothing of banks, James," exclaimed Edmund. "What are you thinking?"

"I never said that I knew anything about banks or banking, my friend. However, I do know some people that know quite a lot about it. As you know my shipping company has been sailing back and forth from America for the last few years and a few months ago one of my captains informed me that one of his passengers was a very wealthy businessman from Boston who sailed to London in the hopes of finding investors in a new bank he wanted to open. Boston already has many but his thought was to open a major bank in Philadelphia using British and American funds so that it might appear to be more stable to the businessman of Philadelphia who complete most of their banking in Boston. From what my captain learned the American banks can prove to be very unstable with closing and bankruptcies frequent."

"You are not going to tell me that you invested in this man's idea," asked Edmund in a pained voice.

"As a matter of fact I am. If you will remember I went to London back in March and met with this man. He agreed to a conference with me after I wrote to him of my interest in his idea. The captain of my ship, who has since been given a healthy raise, informed me of this gentleman's arrival shortly after coming into port. I met with Mr. Jacob Woods after almost every other man he had approached in London had turned him down. Many had actually laughed at him. We came to an agreement after a week of discussion where I was taught the rudimentary basics of banking and found it fascinating. Mr. Woods asked me to inform any others who I thought would be interested in the endeavor."

"I can not believe you did," cried Edmund. "How do you know that this man is not a criminal who is going to rob you of whatever funds you have given him so far? This is truly unbelievable." Edmund shook his head and gripped his reins tight in frustration. Ghost tossed his head in agitation and Edmund realizing that he was disturbing his horse forced himself to relax his grip before patting Ghost's neck in apology.

James was trying not to lose the little restraint he had left on his amusement. He really enjoyed watching Edmund reactions to his business schemes and ideas. James was not a reckless risk taker but he but did tend to take more gambles with money than many men found healthy or sound. Edmund knew that James had an amazing head for business and trusted him more than his brother when it came right down to it, but sometimes Edmund needed to be convinced. In all the years they had known each other James had only made a hand full of mistakes. What James did that Edmund respected and emulated in his own business was to never take the risk of having to delve into the principal money. What James invested and risked was the profit and interest he had made off of other investments.

"Edmund." said James grinning. "You really are a fool if you think me as stupid as to be duped like that. Immediately after my captain informed me of Mr. Woods plan I instructed one of my departing captains to investigate the man once he reached America and send word back to me. Six weeks later I received a letter confirming all that Mr. Woods had told my captain on his voyage over. It was then and only then that I decided to approach Mr. Woods."

Edmund shook his head and grinned back at his friend saying, "I should have known you wouldn't do something so reckless. You could have just told me instead of allowing me to believe that you had been a fool."

"Oh, I know. But it is so much more fun the other way."

"Well before you start talking about another venture of yours let me talk you about something that has been on my mind for many weeks now."

James cocked an eyebrow and said, "A venture, you say? You have my attention. Continue."

"As you know Webb and I have been planning to bring most of the breeding and training of the horses at my family's estate, Mansfield Park, up here to Northbridge. Tom does not have the interest, staff, or facilities to take the breeding and training to the levels that Webb and I desire. Over the past few months Webb has been talking with Robert Criss, about the best place to bring the horses to. Webb and Criss have finally agreed that this side of Northbridge," Edmund gestured eastwards and continued, "is the best place to bring them. The land is relatively empty with but a hand full of tenants who do not farm much and the grass grows in abundance. That is what they told me in any case. Frankly, I trust their judgment in this matter. Now I am sure you are asking yourself, 'What does all of this have to do with me?' The answer to that is simple, I want to lease or buy the ruin that you call a Ridgeview House," said Edmund. "I know that you really do not care for it or you would have it in livable condition and making money from a tenant. Webb and I are wanting to build the barns and training arenas over here and the house proves to be providential in its location in relation to our plan."

James looked at the house they were now passing and saw the dilapidated condition of the stone structure. Several shutters hung from hinges and others lay on the ground, broken. Almost all the panes on the third floor were missing, the first and second floor windows also had missing panes but not as extensive. Roof tiles were gone only to be found lying broken beside the shutters on the ground. While not surprised at Ridgeview House's state James made a mental note to send his steward over the next day and prepare a list of repairs that were needed. He turned his head back to Edmund and replied, "If I had been aware three weeks ago that you were planning on asking me about purchasing this house I would have let you have it. However, since then a young widow has rented it. I am sorry, my friend, truly I am. Had I but known the house would have been yours. I believe that the widow, her son, and what little staff she brings should be here this week. In fact, it looks as if they have are in residence," said James while indicating the smoke rising from one of the chimneys.

"Well, that is a disappointment. We'll think of something else for the time being. Do you know how long this widow plans on staying?" asked Edmund

"The widow did not say how long she planned on staying but I am under the impression that it will not be a permanent situation."

Edmund sighed and became silent as they rode past the house but his mind would not let the issue rest. It seemed that the plan Webb and he had spent so much time contemplating was not going to be as perfect as anticipated. After a time Edmund turned to his friend and asked, "You will notify me the second this widow leaves the house, won't you?"

"You will be the first to know, I promise. The only reason I allowed this widow to take this house was because she desired to be in seclusion. She said in the letter of inquiry that she wished to be left alone with her grief. I offered many a better lodging and even some those small cottages on the other side of the estate but when I informed her that her nearest neighbor would be only hundreds of feet away she asked if there was anything more remote. I told her that Ridgeview sat on the border of these two estates and that her nearest neighbor was now almost two miles away and she wrote back that she wished to rent it." James shook his head before saying, "I will never understand women. Never."

"I don't think we are meant to understand them, James," Edmund replied laughing. "This woman seems odd though. You would think that she would rather be constantly surrounded than alone. But it is like you said; I will never understand women either. There is one thing that you should know about; Webb is going to be coming over to this side of Northbridge quite often in the next few weeks. He is going to be deciding where the barns are going to be built. Webb was positively excited when I told him that Tom had agreed to allow the breeding and such to come up here."

"Wait, wait, wait, Webb was excited?" interrupted James.

Edmund grinned and said, "Well at least I think he was. He gave a lopsided grin, raised his eyebrows, nodded, and then left without saying anything after I told him."

"Really?" James shook his head again and after moment of contemplation continued, "There is something else I will never understand."

"What's that?" asked Edmund looking at James.

"Webb."

Both men looked at each other and laughed, continuing on their way. They did not see the woman and little boy walking along to the edge of a crop trees to their left as they rode on down the lane past Ridgeview House, along the border of Leighton and Northbridge Manor.

Chapter Three

"Look, Momma, look," cried her son pointing at the men. "Horses! Do you think that they would let me pet them?"

Laughing shakily she replied, "Maybe some other day, Eric. We do not know them and it would not be proper to introduce ourselves in such a way. They look to be in deep discussion and would probably not appreciate an interruption."

Sighing the boy continued to look after the retreating horses with longing but with a nod of his curly light brown head reached up and took his mother's hand. "Do you think Mr. Williamson will let me ride Strawberry?"

The woman again laughed at her son and his enthusiasm for horses. "Perhaps."

"Oh I hope he will let me but Mr. Williamson says that he won't let me ride Strawberry until you say that I can," said the boy.

"He is too big for you to ride by yourself, Eric. I have told Mr. Williamson that you can sit on Strawberry's back and be led around at a walk. That is something."

"But Father was letting me ride his horse by myself when I was five."

A look of pain and anger flashed across the woman's face leaving behind a weariness that seemed to age her. "Yes, well your father was never a prudent man and he is not here now. You must understand, Eric that your father is not to be spoken of any longer. He was barely around and you hardly knew him. He let you do things that I disapproved of when he was home in order to amuse himself." She stopped and realized that the bitterness and anger she kept hidden from her precious son had seeped through during her speech. Stopping she turned and knelt down before her son. "Eric you must understand it pains me to be reminded of your father and that is why I do not like you speaking of him. His death is still too fresh in my mind. I am not angry with you."

The little boy looked as his mother for a moment and saw the pain in her eyes. Even though he was not yet eight he understood more than his mother knew. He had been the one to comfort her when his father left them in the country to spend months in London. His mother never spoke of her sorrow but intuitively he always recognized when she was feeling the loss more acutely. She tended to be more protective. Eric knew that she loved him above all others in the world as he loved her and only wished for her be happy. In his sweet innocent way he vowed to make sure that his mother never cried again. As he gazed into the eyes of his mother he made that promise to himself again while he responded with and smile and simple, "I know."

She smiled back and said while rising, "Come my blue eyed prince, we need to be heading back to the house. We have been gone too long on this expedition. Hanna will be worrying and I am sure that Mr. Williamson would love help when he feeds Strawberry." The little boy whooped and began tugging on his mother's hand in his haste to return to their new home, Ridgeview House.

When they arrived back at their new home Eric rushed off to show Samuel Williamson all the interesting bugs that had been gathered during his adventure with his mother. The boy's mother smiled after her son and continued on into the house. Entering through the kitchen the smells of fresh bread and pie greeted her.

"OH, you gave me quite a start, Mrs. Graham," cried the woman who had been chopping up carrots with practiced ease.

"Hanna, how many times must I tell you to call me by my first name. I really do abhor all this deceit that I have been forced to use in order to keep my son and I free from scrutiny. You have been with me for nine years now and I look to you not as a servant but a friend. Please do me the honor of calling me by my true name, not the one that I have been forced to take," said the young woman wearily.

The older woman had paused in her work during her lady's speech to look upon the face of one that while still young in appearance had what seemed to be the weight of the world. Hanna truly loved the young woman and decided that if this one request would make the lady happy then she would oblige. "Alright, Fanny I'll call you by your first name but only in this house and only when it just the four of us."

Gratitude and love shone on her face as Fanny gazed into the eyes of understanding and wisdom. "You are a true friend Hanna as well as Sam. I know that my plan would not have worked if had not been for the both of you."

"Oh well, enough of that talk. How was the adventure this afternoon?" she asked smiling brightly

Smiling Fanny began to relate tell of all the bugs and other creatures that her and Eric had encountered on their walk. They were both laughing when Eric and Sam came in the back door. Eric rushed over to Hanna with his hands full of the 'treasures' that had been found.

"Eric!" admonished his mother. "Those are not to be brought into the kitchen," she said while indicating the insects that the boy clutched in his dirty hands.

Sam looked down at the boy and grinned before saying, "I said that he could show Hanna, Mrs. Gra..."

Fanny interrupted before Sam could say anything else saying, "Sam, you will call me Fanny. Just like I have told Hanna to do. When it is just the four of us please refer to me as Fanny."

The older man looked closely at his wife who nodded before turning back to Fanny and saying, "I think I can remember but you may have to remind me every so often, Fanny."
Sam grinned at her and looked down at Eric and winked. "Now what do you say we go find something to put those in, lad?" Eric quickly gathered up the insects he had been laying out for inspection by Hanna and followed Sam out of the kitchen into the greater part of the house.

Hanna turned back to Fanny and said, "Well, Fanny, I think that we are goin' to do well here. The boys seem to be settlin' in nicely."

"We have only been here one day, Hanna. I am not going to be so optimistic for a while. However, I think we have as good a chance here as we have anywhere else. I may even get to write, if time allows." Fanny turned and gazed out the window the faced the eastern sky and continued, "It is beautiful up here. We may just make it."

Hanna went back to her chopping as Fanny spoke. While putting the carrots into the large pot on the stove she said, "I think you're right, Fanny. We will make it." The two women turned and regarded each other. One had doubt in her eyes the other hope and as they gazed into the other's eyes reassurance and longing were shared.

"Mr. Williamson, do you think that Strawberry is too big for me to ride?" asked Eric as he and Samuel walked out the kitchen door.

Samuel Williamson stopped and looked down at the boy and smiled. "Well, I don't know, young sir. Strawberry is as gentle as a lamb but he is a full grown horse and seeing as that you are only seven..."

"I'm almost eight!" cried Eric interrupting. "My birthday is in a few months. Mother said that I could sit on Strawberry's back and have you lead him around but I have ridden by myself before on a horse bigger than Strawberry."

"Well, it doesn't matter what I think, Eric. Your mother is the one who you need to be trying to convince. Now hold on a minute," said Samuel raising his hand to silence the boy, "I know how much you want to learn how to ride so I'll tell you what. I'll help you learn if you promise to not tell your mother or Hanna." Pausing a moment to let the revelation of the boy's wish sink in Sam remembered the conversation with Fanny a few days before where he asked her permission to teach Eric. Fanny had been concerned but Sam assured her that Eric was ready. He also argued that having a distraction like learning to ride might make the transition easier on her son. Fanny agreed to the plan and offered her own idea, 'Let him think that it is a secret between you two,' she said, 'Eric would love the intrigue and the idea of surprising me.'

Sam smiled at the memory and the boy in front of him before continuing, "Now before you agree you need to know that I expect you to learn not only how to ride but how to take care of Strawberry. If you're old enough to ride then you're old enough to learn how to care for one."

The little boy's face split into a wide grin with dimples on each cheek. He looked up at Samuel and said, "I promise to never tell mother or Hanna because we would both be in big trouble. I will learn how to take care of Strawberry and help you, Mr. Williamson."

"There's a good lad," replied Samuel patting Eric on the shoulder. "Now let's get you a place to put those bugs." With that the man and boy walked around the garden and headed towards the barn that was in dire need of repair. Only one stall out the five had a functioning door and the small, attached storage room's roof looked as if it was hanging on by its last nail. One of the first things Samuel had decided to do once he saw the sorry state of the structure was to ask Mrs. Graham or rather Fanny to talk to their landlord about having the barn repaired. There had not been a tenant at Ridgeview House for at least five years and the barn was showing the neglect. The house itself was in better condition having been cleaned twice a year by the staff from Leighton Park proper but there were still several rooms on the second floor that needed work and the roof was leaking in places. Thankfully it was not leaking in any of the main rooms but it was only a matter of time.

As Samuel surveyed the barn he began making a mental list of things that needed to be done in order to return the structure to some kind of working condition. Samuel was what one could consider a man of many talents. He could repair almost anything but also had the training of a butler and had been such for Fanny Price since she had married Henry Crawford nine years before. His wife, Hanna, had also begun serving Fanny as the housekeeper for the home that Henry brought Fanny to begin their married life together. Samuel and Hanna had both been in service all of their lives and had married late in life.

When Fanny had decided to leave the house Henry bought as a wedding gift with Fanny's inheritance, Hanna and Samuel had decided that they would go with Fanny and Eric, knowing that that the young woman and her son would need them in time. Samuel and his wife loved Fanny and Eric with an abandon and level of acceptance that Fanny had never experienced.

Samuel had spent most of the day cleaning up the rubbish that had accumulated over the years in the barn. Eric had been helping before he and his mother had gone on their "adventure." During the time that Eric was away Samuel was able to clear out the storage room and most of two of four the non-functioning stalls. The hayloft was deemed unsafe and ruled off limits for little boys which caused some complaining but was short in duration. Overall, Samuel felt that the first full day of being in their new home was productive.

"Mr. Williamson, look!" said Eric. "Do you think I can use this box to put my bugs in?"

Samuel took the proffered box from Eric. It was a bit larger than a jewelry box and deeper. Opening it up he saw that it was empty before handing it back to Eric saying, "It looks like a very good bug box to me, Eric. Now put them in there and then I need you to do something for me."

The little boy dumped the bugs from his left hand into the box and dug around in his pant and vest pockets taking out all of those treasures found on the adventure. Once all the bugs were accounted for and safely in their container Eric looked up and said, "Alright, Mr. Williamson I'm ready."

"I want you to go in the house and ask your mother if you can borrow one of her pencils and a scrap of paper."

A few minutes later Samuel heard someone running towards him and turning saw Eric sprinting towards him with a piece of paper and pencil clutched tightly in hand. The rest of their afternoon was spent carefully writing down what repairs were needed for the barn and house.

The next morning the new tenant of Ridgeview House received her first visitor. James had decided after his ride with Edmund the previous day to personally call on the widow and apologize for the condition of the house instead of sending his steward, Clancy. When he woke that morning he met with Clancy and told him to have workers ready to start repairs on Ridgeview before the week's end.

Now as James approached house from behind he saw that it was not the only structure that was in need of repairs. The barn looked as if it was about to crumble. He shook his head and reprimanded himself for not taking care of his father's estate as he had promised he would. Granted, James had made improvements to many of his tenants homes and his own, but somehow this lone house out on the border of the estate had fallen by the wayside with years of neglect glaringly obvious. The house itself looked to be standing solid but its appearance was less than pleasing.

James made his way around the house up the small drive to the front door. He got off his horse and was about to walk up to the door when it opened and a man dressed in a suit stood framed by the doorway. James saw that the man was a little shorter and older than himself, with graying brown hair. James estimated him to be in his mid to late forties. The man looked at him with suspicion and wariness that made James uncomfortable and wary in return.

"May I help you, sir?" asked Samuel with clipped words.

"I would like to speak to Mrs. Graham. My name is James Laurence. She will recognize the name, I am sure," replied James.

Samuel nodded and said, "Of course, sir. Won't you come in? I will inform Mrs. Graham of your arrival. Please wait here." Samuel then turned and walked away. A few minutes later James heard footsteps approaching and Samuel appeared. "Please follow me, sir."

Gesturing towards the door James asked, "May I be allowed to secure my horse?"

"I will see to it, sir," replied Samuel

With that Samuel strode out and untying the reins from around a small tree led James' horse around to the backside of the house. James watched Samuel until he disappeared around the corner before turning back inside the house. As he did so James saw a woman approaching him. She was several inches shorter than him but would have been considered tall for her sex. She had dark brown hair and green eyes or were they gray? As she drew closer he could see a small smile on her lips. He was intrigued as she was not what he had been expecting.

Fanny looked closely at the man who entered her house and said, "Welcome, Mr. Laurence. I am so honored that you would visit us. My name is Mrs. Graham."

"It is a pleasure, Mrs. Graham. I understand that you wish for privacy but I hope you can forgive me this one time," James replied smiling back at the woman, showing off his dimples to their greatest effect.

Fanny smiled back at James with a raised eyebrow. "Please come in. You must excuse the mess, Mr. Laurence. We only just arrived yesterday and have not been able clean the house yet to our satisfaction."

James almost winced at her thinly veiled insult. "Do not concern yourself, Mrs. Graham. The condition of the house is the reason I have come. I did not realize how badly Ridgeview had fallen into disrepair until only yesterday when my friend and I were riding by. In an effort to right that wrong I have spoken with my steward this morning and we will be sending carpenters over to repair all that needs to be done. I will also speak with my housekeeper and have her send over a few our household staff to clean inside. Please accept my humble apologies for not seeing to these items before your arrival. As a matter of good will I am waving the rent for the first two months you are here."

During this speech Fanny had led James to the back of the house and they entered the kitchen just as he finished. Turning to him and indicating a chair at the table that occupied a corner she replied, "Thank you, Mr. Laurence for your concern. The extra help and repairs will be greatly appreciated. However, waving the rent is not necessary."

"Nonsense! I absolutely insist, Mrs. Graham. It is entirely my fault that the house has fallen into its current state and I would not feel right asking you to pay rent while repairs are being made to it. You will not be able to sway me in this," James said kindly yet firmly.

Looking at the man who now sat at the old beaten up table she saw the kindness and friendliness in his eyes. Fanny sat down across from James and said, "Alright, Mr. Laurence, I will accept." Turning to her right she found Hanna watching them closely from across the kitchen. "Hanna would you please prepare some tea for our guest."

"Right away, Mrs. Graham."

While they waited the back door of the kitchen opened and Eric came rushing into the room. "Mother! Mother! Samuel just brought the prettiest horse I have ever seen around to the barn. Come look!" he exclaimed while tugging on Fanny's arm.

"Eric! Stop," replied Fanny. "Did you not see our guest? Now apologize to Mr. Laurence," she scolded.

Eric blushed and turned to look at James before saying quietly, "I am sorry, sir. I did not see you sitting there. I hope that I did not upset you."

James looked at Eric and smiled broadly before saying, "You did not upset me. I know exactly how you feel. I reacted the same way when I first saw my horse too."

"That is your horse?" asked Eric breathlessly with wide eyes.

"Yes. His name is Caesar," replied James with a small chuckle at the boy's reaction to the information.

"Mr. Laurence," said Fanny, "this is my son, Eric." Putting her hand on the boy's shoulder she turned him to face her before continuing, "Eric, this is Mr. Laurence. We are renting this house from him."

James watched the mother and son and was struck by how much he missed his father. It had been five years since the death of his father but the pain, while dull, was still present. While lost in his thoughts watching the pair, the man whom he met when he first arrived came through the back door.

"Oh, there you are Samuel," said Fanny when she saw the older man. "I would like you to meet Mr. Laurence, the owner of Ridgeview House. Mr. Laurence this is Samuel Williamson, my butler and driver. This is his wife, Hanna. My cook, and housekeeper," said Fanny gesturing to Hanna as the older woman approached with a tray of food and tea.

James only had enough time to register that these people were more than just employees of his tenant because of her use of their Christian names. She valued them as more than just the people that she paid to work for her but as true friends, else she would not have introduced them so informally to him, like they were family not staff James stood up and shook hands with the older man. Samuel looked closely at James before saying, "I have put your horse in the small pen beside the barn, Mr. Laurence. I will bring him around when you are ready to leave."

"Thank you, Mr. Williamson. I appreciate you tending to him." James turned to Hanna who had set the tray on the table and was turning to move across to the other side of the kitchen. "Thank you, Mrs. Williamson." The older woman nodded and smiled slightly before moving away.

"Samuel, do you have that list that you and Eric made yesterday about what repairs are needed on the house and barn?" asked Fanny as she prepared the tea.

"Yes, Mrs. Graham. Would you like for me to go and get it?" Sam asked.

"If you would please," Fanny said smiling widely. She watched Sam walk into the hall leading to the greater part of the house then turned back to James and handed him a cup of tea. She was enjoying his company and the obvious discomfort he was feeling. The barbs she had thrown earlier had surprised her but he took it stride and ever-present tension between her shoulder blades that appeared when meeting new people did not appear. After so many years of hiding her discomfort when in the presence of those she did not know well, Fanny was able to relax in the man's company.

James was surprised that Mrs. Graham did not ask him how he liked his tea prepared and even more so after accepting the cup from her and discovering that she had prepared it exactly as he enjoyed it, a lump of sugar and almost more milk than tea. 'Perfect,' he thought.

"Sam and Eric spent most of yesterday afternoon making a list of repairs that are needed. I thought that you would need it. Your steward would be better informed if he had it and I think that the maintenance could be started and completed faster if he knew what was required," Fanny explained.

"An excellent idea, Mrs. Graham. The list will no doubt speed up the process. I thank you for thinking of it," he replied.

Sam brought the list of needed repairs into the kitchen. After delivering it to James he walked over to his wife who was trying her best to look busy and not doing a very good job. Sam grinned at his wife's efforts. "Keeping an eye on our young ones?" he asked quietly

Hanna tried to look affronted but failed as a grin broke out on her face. "You are such a nuisance, Samuel Williamson. I'll have you know I am working," she whispered back furiously.

"Liar," he stated flatly.

Hanna looked up at him and saw the sparkle in his eyes. "Oh you are frustrating, Williamson."

"Aye," he drawled softly in his natural heavy accent, "but ya love me, lass."

"Much to my sanity's dismay," she retorted shortly. Glancing up she noticed Mr. Laurence watching her and Sam's exchange and stiffened. Noticing his wife's change in demeanor Sam over towards James and met his gaze. James nodded ever so slightly and Sam looked at him for a long moment before nodding in return. Much was unsaid but an understanding was made between the two men much to the satisfaction of both.

"I think that Mr. Laurence is a good man," Sam said quietly turning back to his wife.

She looked at him fearfully before asking, "Do you think that he will leave us alone, Sam. He may have known Henry in London. What if he did? What will we do Sam?

"I don't know about that Hanna, but I have a feeling that there sits a good man. I can't explain how I know. I just feel it," he said. "Don't worry Hanna I will never let anything happen to us."

"I know. I know," Hanna sighed. "It's just we've worked so hard to keep her and Eric safe that I am wary of everyone."

"Don't fret, my love. All will be well," Sam reassured. He walked away from his wife when he saw James standing and start to put on his gloves. "I will go fetch your horse for you Mr. Laurence. I will meet you at the front door." Sam bowed, turned, and left the kitchen. Eric jumped down from his seat, said a quick farewell to James, and scampered after Sam.

Reaching out James took Fanny's hand and bowed over it before saying, "It has been a pleasure Mrs. Graham. I hope that you will allow me to visit again when you are more comfortable with receiving guests. I took the liberty of informing most of the neighborhood of your request for solitude. It should hold off all but the most curious for a while but you will eventually be visited by many good families."

"Thank you for your concern and thoughtfulness, Mr. Laurence. It will not be forgotten," replied Fanny. "I hope in time I will begin to feel more sociable and amiable."

"I hope for the same," offered James kindly. "Thank you again for the tea and wonderful repast. Mrs. Williamson, your cooking is most excellent." Looking up Hanna smiled. James continued, "Good day to you both, do not trouble yourself with seeing me to the door." With that James picked up his hat and strode from the room. He met Sam outside and saw Eric standing next to his horse stroking his neck. "Next time I come to visit, Mr. Eric I will ask your mother if she will allow me to take you for a ride on Caesar."

"Oh, Mr. Laurence would you really?" exclaimed the boy.

"We shall see, Eric. I promise. Mr. Williamson, thank you for looking after my horse and also for the list of repairs that you prepared. This is will greatly assist my workers in their job," said James.

Sam nodded but said nothing. James took the offered reins and mounted. He waved to Eric and then rode away.

"I think Mr. Laurence is a nice man. Don't you Mr. Williamson?"

"I do believe that you are right, Eric," said Sam.

However, back in the kitchen Hanna was being plagued by doubt. Her mind and heart were not lightened by her husband's words of confidence and encouragement. She trusted what Sam said about keeping them safe but she still had a feeling of unease. Mr. Laurence seemed to be a charming and wonderful man but Henry Crawford had presented a similar façade, which caused grief and misery to abound. The hope she had felt from the day before was not waning but it was being wrapped in concern for all of them. Hanna knew that there was no way to plan for every eventuality and that sometimes your biggest threat could come from those closest to you, your neighbors, friends, and family.

Chapter Four

As James rode away from Ridgeview House he could not help but continue to berate and condemn himself for allowing the house to fall into such disrepair. He was truly ashamed and again promised himself that he would see to all repairs and restoration. A small grin grew on his lips as he remembered the not so subtle insult from Mrs. Graham on the state of the house's cleanliness and overall condition. The woman was a novelty to be sure, he mused as he turned onto the long lane that led up to his own home, Leighton.

Pushing Caesar into a canter, James rode up the drive and looked at the surrounding countryside. Happiness and pride for the land and house rose in him causing a wide smile to burst forth on his face as he rode up to the house. Guiding Caesar around to the stables he slowed to a walk and once stopped, dismounted and handed the reins to one of the waiting stable boys named Robin. Grinning down at the boy James smiled and asked after Robin's family. After hearing that the boy's mother, father, and numerous siblings were doing well he turned and strode towards the house.

Once inside James immediately sought out his housekeeper, Mrs. Post. "My dear Mrs. Post, I have another job to add to your current responsibilities. This task is very important to me and I have complete faith in your abilities to accomplish it."

"Thank you sir for your trust in me. I will try not to disappoint you," replied the older woman in a serious tone.

He then quickly informed her of the pitiful condition of the Ridgeview House. She quickly understood the wishes of her master and promised to personally oversee the restoration of the interior of the house. "Sir, I think that it would be best if we sent over one of our cooks to prepare the food for our workers. I assume that you are going to discuss repairing the exterior with your steward, Mr. Clancy. If that is so then the crew that we would be sending over will be substantial and to ask the young widow to provide for them all might prove be to taxing on her and her staff."

James almost rushed over to the woman and hugged her, "Mrs. Post, you are a jewel! That is not even something that had occurred to me. Please see to it. I spoke with Clancy early this morning but I will meet with him again and inform of the changes. I will then send him to you so that you both can work out whatever details I have surely overlooked."

"Very well, sir. Please tell Mr. Clancy that I will be in my office."

"Thank you again Mrs. Post. If there is anything that you need I will be in my study for the next few hours. Please have my tea sent to me."

"I will see to it sir. Good day to you sir," answered Mrs. Post. She then turned and proceeded towards the back of the house.

James then went and found his steward. After updating Clancy on the changes and new developments James sent him to Mrs. Post. It was then that James was finally able to enter his study, immediately a sense of peace overcame him. This room was his haven. He had never taken the time to wonder why this room made him feel as it did. It was a large bright room with windows on two sides. The other two sides of the room were reserved for his desk and his personal library, which shared the space with a large fireplace and several chairs, completing the picture of a sanctuary to perfection. After looking longingly at the large leather chairs and the book that lay on the arm of one of them James mentally shook himself. Taking a deep breath, he strode across the room and sat down at the huge desk.

Piles of correspondence lay haphazardly on the oak top. For a split second he considered ignoring the letters for the day. 'It's not as if their going to get up and wander off,' he reasoned. Then after eyeing the offending pieces of paper wishing that they would spontaneously catch fire he took another deep breath and blew it out before wading into the fray. He began sorting through the letters separating the personal from the business. He noticed two letters, one from his sister and the other from Craig Connor, his first mate from his last command. His heart rose as he looked at the familiar handwriting of his beloved sister. The other letter, from Craig, caused his stomach to clench in anticipation. Now, knowing that he had something better to look forward to, James set to work answering all of his business associates in town as well as lawyers, ship captains, and even his tailor. Several hours, a few quills, many curses, and countless sheets of paper later James finished much to his relief. 'Never again will I ignore my letters for 7 days straight,' he thought ruefully. Shaking his left hand, which had developed a cramp an hour before, James stood and stretched out the stiffness in his neck and back. Picking up the letter from his sister and old friend he made his way over to the large leather chair by the window in the corner of his study. Settling down in the great chair James took his sister's letter and began reading:

Dearest Brother,

How does this missive find you? Probably slouched down in some over large chair wishing that someone would be so kind as to come and pour you a drink. Am I not right, brother? I know you only too well.

James chuckled at her prediction and its correctness before continuing to read.

I only wish that my life were somehow different. Do not be angry with yourself over my plight. I am not so downtrodden that I do not find some joy. My son is the air that I breathe, growing so quickly, and so much like you in manner. I wish that you could see my miracle. This estrangement from you is necessary. You must see that. Our future safety is dependant on my husband not knowing your true identity. My husband knows that the small portion of my inheritance still in my control is under your care and believes you to be a business associate only.

My husband is not well and yet he continues in his chosen path. I do not know why but I still feel for him in a way that I thought would die years ago. I do not believe in an all-consuming love, you know that. However, what I feel for my husband can only be described as love. Love for what he could have been had I not failed as a wife so utterly. In some ways I drove him to this through my own actions during our first years of marriage. Had I put more vocal emphasis on the virtues of life and exercised them myself perhaps he would be a different man and this letter would not be necessary; save only to impart the good tidings I would have.

After so many years of being angry with my husband for my situation I have resolved to stop blaming him for something that my own family put into action by their willful blindness to his character and those around him. Now all that is left is a frustrating affection but even with those feelings I am resolved in carrying out my plan for the future of my son and myself. Even though he is not responsible for the beginning of this sad road I have been forced down, he has made my life a torturous hell. Giving and taking away his affection has not cut me as deeply as when I first lost my heart in love to another and received it back in tatters. My anger is deep and will be long lasting towards both men but my hate is reserved for only one.

You have been so supportive in all of this and I pray that you do not blame yourself for what has taken place. I forbid you to take the guilt in this. However, I must own up to my own responsibility in this sad business that has become my life. The loathing that I feel for myself can be compared to no other emotion; even the dark rage and hatred I feel for the one who tore my heart out cannot compare to this. I alone allowed myself to be sold into this life of shadows and darkness that some refer to as marriage but that I think of as only a prison constructed of lies and deceit. Only the light from my son keeps me falling into complete despair and knowing that you lead such a wonderful life. I do not begrudge your happiness and joy, my brother. And now after reading over what I have just written I am again ashamed of myself but I do not have the strength to throw this letter in the fire and begin anew. Forgive me, sweet brother, for my selfishness.

Do not give much thought to my ramblings James. I am in a dark mood today by my own choosing. Please relate a diverting story to me so that I may chuckle and remember the better days of life before all was replaced with an empty façade only pretending to be life.

All my love to you my dearest brother,

Jane

James sighed and looked around the study darkly. The letter belied his sister's worry about her future. There was nothing more that he could do at present that he was not already doing. He wished that he could go to London and strangle the worthless cad who called himself a husband. Closing his eyes James took a few deep breaths. The love he felt for the estate was only a fraction of what he felt for his family. From time the he was three years old, James had taken on the mantle of elder brother and made a point to fill all the requirements of that position. Teasing and tormenting were his weapons of choice and he was a master at both. However, his love for his family never wavered. The love was only strengthened when he all but lost his family.

James read the letter again and felt his anger begin rise. One of his many regrets was that he was not able to save his beloved sister from a marriage that brought only misery to her. The marriage took place while James was at sea and by the time he returned there was no way for him to help his sister find an avenue of escape. He would never understand why his family allowed the marriage to occur. The only explanation James could find was that his brother-in-law must be the greatest charmer in all of England in order for him to have fooled the entire family.

Putting the letter down, James stood and walked over to the window. Looking out he saw the long tree lined lane leading up Leighton with the branches swaying gently in the evening breeze. The sun was beginning the final stage of decent and sinking behind the ridge of hills in the distance. In the back of his mind James was registering the beauty that was before him but he continued to think on his sister and her son; a nephew that James had only ever seen once. Unconsciously his hands curled into fists as his restlessly roamed the landscape. 'I will see her happy again, as God as my witness, I will,' vowed to himself as the sky blazed with the colors of flames. James grinned coldly as he noticed the sky and reflected on how fitting it was that the sunset was matching his current mood, fiery rage.

---

The new tenants of Ridgeview House settled in quite comfortably during the next several weeks as the summer faded into fall. True to his word, James Laurence sent carpenters and laborers over to repair the house and barn. He also had a few of the housemaids help with the cleaning. Several rooms needed new paint and the attic was almost ruined. However, the carpenters replaced several large sections of the roof and the attic was restored to serviceable condition. New windows were installed where needed and the shutters replaced which gave the house a less sinister and unwelcoming appearance.

The stables were essentially torn down and rebuilt. The master carpenter said that to try and save the existing structure would prove futile. Mrs. Graham's man, Samuel and James' master carpenter designed a new stable and had it approved by James before building began. A respectable six-stall barn was built with three stalls on either side of the barn aisle with a tack and feed room to the left of the large double doors facing the stone drive that wound its way from the front of the house to the back. The fence that made the small paddock was repaired and also the perimeter fence around the kitchen garden was replaced and painted much to the delight of the ladies of the house who decided to plant some fall vegetables in the garden.

Fanny and Hanna were both thankful and distressed by all the people who were around during that time. Fanny worried that local gossip would grow to such large proportions that she would be invaded by callers. However, much to her relief, it seemed that her wish to remain in solitude to grieve was respected. She kept to her study and only came in contact with the workers from Leighton rarely. Gossip about her did abound and the overall conclusion from the populace was that she was a bit odd but it was acceptable as probably resulting from her terrible loss.

Hanna worried that her kitchen would never be returned to her. Mr. Laurence had seen to it that a cook was sent over to prepare the meals for his workers so as not to be a burden on the inhabitants of Ridgeview. While the cook, a girl named Anna, was competent, the elder woman never left the kitchen and watched Anna like a hawk to make sure that all of her pots, pans, and utensils were put where they belonged. Anna had brought most of her own cooking supplies but there were times when she needed to borrow something. Over the three weeks that the house was being repaired the two women came to an understanding and Hanna could not help but like the bubbly spirit of the young cook. She had made the remark to Sam that Anna could talk the ears off of a donkey if she had a mind to do it. Sam wished he could have told his wife that she too could pull off the same feat if she so desired. However, he was wise and did not share his musing with his wife, thus saving himself from many ill cooked meals.

Others in the neighborhood were not so idle either during those weeks. After discovering that Ridgeview House was no longer attainable, Edmund discussed with Webb what options were available in regards to their plans for the horse farm. They both decided that it would be best to continue with their plans of building the new barns on the eastern side of the estate. Edmund was not overjoyed with the obstacle that had been put into their plans. Another reason for his frustration was that he was not going to be able to oversee the project with the attention he had wished too. The harvest season was upon them as Robert Criss was daily reminding him. He wondered aloud if the stables construction could be postponed until after the harvest. Webb, however, pointed out that all haste was needed due to the ending of summer and the impending approach of fall and winter. Therefore, plans were put into action to have a new barn built and several new pastures fenced in before the first snow of the year. This put them on a very tight time schedule but Webb had seen to it that the barn they built first would be the smallest and simplest in its design. His hope was to have the eight-stall barn built before the middle of October. That gave the builders just under two months before they would have to start worrying about the weather.

Webb had ridden all over the eastern side of Northbridge in order to familiarize himself with the land where his dream would be built. The east side of the manor was not as developed with tenant farms like the western and central parts of the large estate. When Mr. Bertram had shown an interest in starting an equine breeding and training farm Webb had immediately thought of the Northbridge's eastern side. Initially Edmund wanted to devote over two hundred acres of the estate to the project. Webb was shocked and gratified that his master would show such support for the project but eventually he was able to persuade Edmund to decrease the amount of land by half at least until they had established themselves.

The seventy-five acres that was decided upon to start the project was in Webb's opinion the most beautiful of all the property. Tall native grasses grew and created a green, gold, and brown landscape that rolled and waved like a sea during a storm when the wind rushed through the vales. A long boundary of large hills, that in times long forgotten had been mountains standing tall were now only a shadow of what they once had been, extended the length of the Northbridge estate. The hills rose and fell all along the western border of the chosen land and settled down into a lovely plain that stretched east continuing past the distant eastern boundary of Leighton Park. Small forests of oak, hickory, rowan, and many other kinds of trees dotted the hills and ran along the roots of the knolls where several small streams flowed down and converged to create a respectable fresh water creek that ran into a river to the south in -shire.

Webb was loath to have to clear any of the land of the trees or natural growth. He wished to design and build several trails that could be used for practice to prepare the horses for fox hunting. There was enough land to do this with and yet Edmund said that he would keep all the land to the east of the hills free for Webb to with as he pleased. Hundreds of acres of wooded land with undergrowth had been undisturbed for generations. Therefore, Webb chose to build all of the stables and training rings in a goodly sized section of naturally clear land. It had been, or so Webb and Edmund thought, providential that the said piece of land was situated just across the way from James Laurence's Ridgeview House, the western border of Laurence Park. Both Edmund and Webb began making plans and included the purchase of the house in them. They both felt that the house, unused for years, would prove to be a wonderful place for Webb and whatever help he would require to live in. The arrival of the widow and her household became the first barrier that the men of Northbridge were faced with

'And not the last,' thought Webb as he surveyed the beginning of the new stable and pastures. He began riding over to the border of Northbridge and starting his own group of laborers on constructing the stable and two pastures, each about 9 acres in size, a week after the repairs of Ridgeview House had commenced. Webb hoped that upon the completion of the stable and fences that he could move the five horses that he currently had in training at Northbridge proper to the new stables. That would leave just Edmund's riding horse, the four carriage horses, and Robert Criss' two drafts at Northbridge in whose care he would entrust to Colin. There were also plans to move three pregnant mares to the new stable as well but that depended solely on how quickly the barn could be completed.

One afternoon, two weeks after he had begun work on the fences, Webb was overseeing the completion of the first pasture and the progress on the barn when he suddenly felt a slight tug on his left sleeve. Turning he looked down and saw a young boy smiling up at him. "What can I do for you, young sir?" he asked.

The little boy cleared his throat and looked around nervously before saying, "My name is Eric and I would like to pet your horse."

Webb almost laughed outright before he noticed that the boy was not smiling at him but rather at Pride. The horse had been improving in his training and Webb had decided to take him out and just ride for the pleasure of it so as not to sour the horse with to much work. Webb glanced over at the large animal to his right and found that Pride was watching the little boy with obvious interest. "Well Eric my name is Mr. Webb and it seems that my horse here is just as interested in you as you are of him. Here now hold out your hand with your palm up." Webb gently grasped Eric's right wrist and turned it with the palm facing up. Slowly Eric stepped forward toward the horse. Pride regally lowered his head and sniffed the proffered hand. After a few seconds Eric gently raised his hand and began stroking Pride's cheek.

"He is the most wonderful horse I have ever seen," said Eric reverently all the while staring and petting Pride, who stood patiently accepting the attention and watching the boy.

Webb was silent for a moment as he observed the horse and boy. He recognized the expression on Eric's young face as being what he experienced whenever he was around a horse. Webb was sure that Eric felt the same way about all horses that he saw from the friendly nag to the best of the best. Here in this young boy Webb discovered another soul who loved horses simply because they existed. Webb reached up and began stroking Pride's neck before replying, "Yes, he is an amazing creature. His name is Pride."

"Hello Pride. I'm Eric and I really like you," said the boy softly. Suddenly Pride cocked an ear back and then raised his head to look behind them. Webb also looked and saw a man about his age striding towards them.

"Mr. Williamson," cried Eric, "look at this horse. Please do not be angry with me but I just couldn't help myself. I had to come and see him. Isn't he wonderful?"

"Good day to you, sir," called Sam as he approached. "I hope that Eric has not been disturbing you."

"He has been no trouble," replied Webb turning before continuing, "My name is Arthur Webb. I am the horse master at Northbridge Manor"

Sam reached out and grasped Webb's hand and replied while shaking, "My name is Samuel Williamson. I am work for Mrs. Graham, the new tenant of Ridgeview House. This is her son, Eric and as I am sure you know now he is a great admirer of horses."

"That I have, Mr. Williamson. He seems quite taken with Pride here," said Webb reaching over to pat the horse's neck.

"He is a fine animal indeed, Mr. Webb. I understand now what drew him over here" said Sam. Turning to little boy he said sternly, "However, Eric, you should not have disappeared like that."

"I am sorry Mr. Williamson. I just had to come over here though." Eric twisted around to look at Webb before continuing; "I have been watching you since you started riding over here. I wanted so badly to pet your horse today though. So I snuck out of the house when I should have been doing my lessons."

"That is why you need to come back with me Eric. Your mother does not know that you are gone yet but she could discover your escape any minute," said Sam as he glanced back across the field towards the house. "Come along we need to be getting back. Mr. Webb," said Sam with a nod.

"Thank you for letting me pet Pride, Mr. Webb," said Eric as he reached out and stroked Pride's cheek and nose one last time.

"It was a pleasure meeting you both, Eric and Mr. Williamson. Let me say that you can come over here anytime to see me and visit whatever horse I have with me, with your mother's permission of course and as long as you bring Mr. Williamson with you. Would this meet with his mother's approval, Mr. Williamson?" asked Webb.

Sam eyed Webb and saw only kindness and openness, "We will ask Mrs. Graham. Thank you for allowing this interruption in your day, Mr. Webb. Good day to you sir."

"It's been a pleasure and good day to you too," replied Webb.

Turning around Sam and Eric made there way across the field and the lane and disappeared around the corner of the house. Webb watched them walk away then turned back to continue overseeing the construction. 'Another month and it should be done. I hope,' thought Webb.

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Edmund sighed in frustration as he rode towards the southern fields. He was almost an hour late for his meeting with Criss. The harvest had not been progressing with the speed that he desired. This year's harvest had proved the largest since Edmund's arrival at Northbridge. Robert Criss had informed Edmund that due to the size of the harvest that the extra laborers they had hired to help would need to stay an extra week at least. All Edmund wanted was to get the harvest completed so that he and Webb could focus their attention on their project. Edmund trusted Webb completely but he still desired to be more a part of the process. Granted he knew that he could not help with the building of the stables or the fences but if Edmund were completely honest with himself he would admit to having no strong love for farming. He knew Criss was aware of this and much to his relief Criss did not hold against him. The older man had said as much to him a week before when they were working on the western side of the estate in the orchards.

As Edmund approached the fields, he started scanning the landscape looking for the bright red hair and large frame of Robert Criss. Upon seeing him, Edmund directed Ghost over to the wagons where Criss was overseeing the loading of the wheat bound for the mill. "How goes it today, Mr. Criss? I apologize for not arriving on time."

"Mr. Bertram have I told you that you are a good man?" asked Criss loudly with a grin. Surprised and taken aback Edmund could only gawk at the man. Criss laughed his huge belly laugh when he saw the look on his master's face. "I mean it, sir. You bein' out here with us shows the other tenants and their families that you care about them and the land. It means a lot to them that you would come. You and I both know that your mind isn't here with us and that you would rather be with Webb goin' over plans for that horse farm you two are always goin' on about. All things aside, sir, you are a good man for showin' your support. You come out everyday for a few hours askin' questions of the men and after their families. They notice that you are not just doin' that to get a good days work out of them. You know those laborers that you hired on? Several have asked me if there are tenant farms that aren't bein' rented. They want to move up here and work for you."

"Do we have any unoccupied farms right now, Criss?" asked Edmund. He did not see the hurt in having more good men move onto the estate and work the land.

"Well, no sir, but I've been thinkin' about an idea I have. You and Webb with all of your plans has got me to plannin' on my own. If you have some time in the next few days I'd like to talk to you about 'em."

Having an idea about those plans, Edmund smiled at the large man and replied, "I would be happy to hear what you have concocted, my friend. What about next Tuesday afternoon?"

"Alright, Mr. Bertram. We'll have our talk next Tuesday then. Now for more pressin' matters, one of the axles on that big wagon over there," said Criss pointing towards the large wagon sitting in the field, "is fixin' to cause us all quite a lot of trouble. I need to get it over to a blacksmith before things get bad. I'm pretty sure that it will have to be replaced. This will set us back about a day or two though because it is the only wagon we have that is that big. We'll have to start usin' more of the smaller wagons owned by the tenants which means more trips to the mill which means less time spent harvestin'."

Edmund sighed and looked over at his farm manager, "Criss remind me again why you will not just be an equally good man, as you say I am, and become my steward. That way you will have full authority over the money needed to operate the estate and thus leaving me to exercise all of my whims and fancies."

This was a long-standing argument between the two men. Criss acted more like the estate steward than the man Edmund had fired not long after his arrival at Northbridge and learning that the steward knew less about farming than he did and had been using Criss to cover up his own inadequacies. Edmund had asked Criss to assume the title and take over the responsibilities, which he all but had in name. Criss flatly refused, stating that he did not need some name or title to tell him what he was and what he did. Edmund admired Criss' honesty but had asked Criss every year since then and was subsequently refused every year. Edmund raised the man's pay but knowing that Criss would refuse the money had secretly invested the money in some very lucrative ventures and had made quite a small fortune for Criss and his wife Penelope. They of course did not know and would not know until Criss was either too feeble in his old age to do harm to his employer or when Edmund was out of the country for an extended period of time. Edmund knew that the latter would occur far sooner than Hell freezing over which is how long it would take Criss to become feeble at any stage in his life.

"Now don't you go startin' that up again, Bertram," growled Criss. "If I've said it once I've said a thousand times. I don't want no silly name. Plus, if I was steward then you wouldn't have to come out with us. You see I like to think you are good man comin' out here with us little folk but I know that you wouldn't be out here if I was your steward. So you wouldn't be a good man unless I made you come out here so you should be thankin' me, Bertram! That's a load of cod's wallop, that is. Steward! Never! I like seein' you suffer with us out here. Of course, you're sufferin' from boredom while we're working like dogs to support you in your grand house."

Several of the new men had stopped in their labors to watch and listen in shock as the big burly man all but yelled and insulted his employer. Edmund looked over at the men and started laughing, "Now look what you have done, you big loon. You are going to get those poor men thinking that you have no respect for me and we just cannot have that."

Criss looked over at the men and grinned. He called and beckoned them over. They came reluctantly. Edmund continued grinning while Criss explained that what they had heard was an old joke between he and Edmund. The looked doubtful at first until the permanent residents of Northbridge who had been laughing through the whole episode confirmed Criss and Edmund's story. The new laborers marveled at this. Never in any of their lives had they seen one of their station talk one of Society in such a way and not be severely punished. Surely this was a strange but interesting place to live many of them thought.

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