Chapter 13
Caleb had an idea. He hoped he wouldn’t be disappointed, but it was worth a try. First, he’d carry through on his promise to Luke. He mucked the stalls, redressed, and drove to Frannie’s to meet Luke. June was pleasant and sunny so far, and this Tuesday was no exception. He arrived at Frannie’s, and Luke met him at the wagon.
“Danki for accompanying me to Bishop Fisher’s.” Luke stepped into the wagon.
“I have another reason to visit Bishop Fisher, so this works out well for both of us. Luke, are you sure you’re ready to marry Frannie?” Caleb didn’t want Luke to feel pressured.
“I’m ready. It’s sudden, but we’ve worked together since I accepted the job. I love her and I love Lily. Frannie can be demanding and difficult at times, but her kindness and the ways she shows she cares far outweigh her bossiness. It’s a breath of fresh air to have a woman who loves the Amish life, loves God, and now, me. Lily is a treasure, and I hope God blesses us with siblings for her.”
Caleb was thankful God had brought these two together. His life would be much easier without Frannie insisting he marry her. She could have the love she desired with Luke. “You’ve got my blessing, and I wish you and Frannie much happiness.”
Luke fumbled his hands. “I’m nervous about what Bishop Fisher will say when I ask to marry Frannie. I pray he doesn’t refuse since we’re getting married so soon after meeting.”
“Bishop Fisher is a reasonable man. Relax.” Caleb liked Luke. He was a humble man, and not afraid to speak his true feelings.
Caleb parked the wagon and walked with Luke to the front door.
Bishop Fisher greeted them. “Caleb and Luke, what brings you here?” He motioned for them to step inside.
Caleb and Luke sat on the settee. Caleb gestured to Luke. “Luke and Frannie would like to get married on June 22.”
“Luke, you haven’t lived in Charm long. Isn’t this sudden?” Bishop Fisher sat on the edge of his chair and didn’t smile.
“I suppose to Frannie’s acquaintances, our wedding may be a surprise. I’ve spent all the time I’ve been here with her and Lily. We’ve both lost our spouses, and we want to wed and enjoy marriage again. I’m committed to the Amish life. I promise to love, honor, and take care of her and Lily the rest of the days I have on this earth.”
“Luke, your first fraa died?”
“You’re correct, and yes, Beverly died in her sleep. The doctor wasn’t sure of the cause of her death.”
The bishop focused his gaze on Caleb. “Have you given Frannie and Luke your blessing?”
“Yes. I support this union. Luke is a hard worker, and he’s gone above and beyond for Frannie and Lily. After giving it some thought, I realized I should trust them. Luke and Frannie are sure this is what they want, and I won’t stand in their way.” Caleb glanced from Luke to Bishop Fisher.
“We won’t have time for counseling.” Bishop Fisher frowned.
Luke raked a hand through his thick brown hair as he held his hat in his lap. “Since we’re a widow and widower, we’ve both had counseling before our first marriages. I have faith Frannie and I will glean what we’ve learned through our previous counseling, and throughout our marriages.”
“You have a point, Luke. I’ll trust you to do as you’ve said.” Bishop Fisher dragged his calendar to his lap from the small table by his chair. “June 22 it is. Congratulations, Luke.” He reached for Luke’s hand. “I’ve been praying for Frannie and Lily, and I asked God to bring the right husband and daed for them. I’m glad you and Frannie have found each other. Let’s pray together.” He offered a prayer to God to bless this union.
“Danki, Bishop.” Relief was evident in Luke’s words.
“I’ve enjoyed our conversations at Sunday services, and friends have noticed how kind you are to Frannie and Lily. Don’t hesitate to stop by any time you’d like to talk. My door is always open.” Bishop Fisher grinned.
Luke stood as if to leave.
Caleb clasped his arm. “Luke, please sit for a minute longer. I have something I’d like to ask Bishop Fisher, and you can be present.” It was important for Luke to understand he considered him family, even though the wedding hadn’t taken place. This was one way he could show him he was accepted as more than a man who was marrying Frannie.
“Bishop, I plan to ask Rachael Schlabach to marry me again. She turned me down because she is barren. I have remained firm to her after our courtship ended that I’m still sure I want to marry her. I’ve been patient, and she’s been more responsive to me this past week. If she says yes, I’d like to have the double wedding we planned in the first place with Joseph and her mamm. We have little time for our counseling.”
“Most everyone in this town has nothing but high regard for you and Rachael. You’ve said you haven’t wavered in your love for her while she’s floundered to find her way. She has a loving heart, and I know she was doing what she thought was best for you, allowing you to be free to marry someone else and have kinner. I have prayed she’d have faith and trust God had brought you two together and let herself have the happiness she really wants in marrying you. God has answered not only my prayer, but I would guess many of your mutual friends, as well.”
“We could meet any evening before June 29.” Caleb held out his hands in question.
“Let’s schedule Thursday, June 24, for a counseling session. I suspect you and Rachael don’t need much instruction. You’re both dedicated to God and the Amish life. I’ll make an exception in your case. I will enjoy the double wedding. Now, don’t dally. Go ask your girl. If you don’t return to ask me to change it, I’ll assume we’re on for our session and the wedding.”
Caleb rose with Luke. He hugged Bishop Fisher. “You’ve been so understanding and a good friend. I appreciate it.” He liked the bishop’s kind and compassionate heart. The man was a true follower of God.
“Let’s pray again before you leave.” The bishop offered a prayer to God for Caleb and Rachael.
They bid the bishop farewell and retrieved Caleb’s wagon.
“I respect Bishop Fisher. He’s a kind and understanding man who loves God,” Luke said.
“Yes. We’re fortunate to have him as our bishop. He doesn’t waver in his belief and teaching of the Scriptures, which is important for our leader. He is also reasonable, a good listener, and uses compassion in dealing with difficult circumstances. He’ll speak his mind, but he’s not a dictator.”
“You shocked me, asking for your wedding date to be back on the schedule. Frannie says Rachael is adamant she won’t marry you, and you’ve been stubborn to believe she will.”
“Frannie wanted me to marry her for necessity and convenience, until she fell in love with you, and she considered Rachael a threat to her plan. Now, we can all have what we want if I can convince Rachael to wed me.” Caleb pulled the wagon to the barn at Frannie’s.
“I hope she says yes.” Luke jumped out.
“Danki.” Caleb tipped his hat. “Congratulations again.”
Luke grinned and headed for the haus.
Caleb went home to pick some flowers before he went to the bakery.
* * *
Rachael pushed the heart cookie cutter into the dough. She loved Caleb, and no other man would measure up to him. She had prayed enough to know God was telling her to trust Caleb. God had pricked her conscience and shown her through the Scriptures in the Bible that she had been wrong.
Magdelena gave her a mischievous grin. “You have a visitor. I’ll leave you two alone to talk.”
“Danki, Magdelena.” Caleb came to her side and passed her the flowers. “These are for you.”
She was impressed he’d put them in a Mason jar with water. “I’ll set them on the counter, where I can look at them while I work. They’re beautiful. Danki. I should wait until I’m not up to my elbows in flour and dough, but I have waited long enough. Caleb, I’m sorry for all I’ve put you through. Will you forgive me?”
“Yes. Rachael, I’ve never stopped loving you, and I mean what I said. You are the bride for me. I have a haus for us. Frannie and Luke are getting married. You don’t have to worry about her and Lily and what you thought was my obligation to marry her. Nathan and Pauline are courting. God has taken care of all your worries and objections. Kinner for me without you was never a problem, no matter what you thought.”
Rachael pressed her forefinger to his lips. “I should’ve believed you the minute you said having kinner didn’t matter. I love you, and I’ll never love anyone like I do you.” She reached for his hand. “Caleb Yutzy, will you do me the honor of becoming my husband?”
He picked her up and twirled her around. He set her on her feet. “I must confess I asked the bishop to schedule us for the same wedding date we had before, making it a double ceremony with Joseph and Eleanor.”
“You did! Wonderful! I couldn’t be more thrilled. Mamm and Joseph will be ecstatic. They’ve been rooting for you all along.”
Magdelena joined them. “And me and all your friends. Yes, I eavesdropped, and no, I won’t apologize for it.” She chuckled.
Caleb pointed at Magdelena. “She and Hannah gave me the best advice. They told me to be patient, and they were right. Danki, Magdelena.”
“What?” Rachael clapped a hand to her open mouth. “You won the hearts of everyone, it appears, Mr. Yutzy.”
“Yes. He did. You both are meant for each other.” Magdelena clapped her hands. “We must plan two wedding cakes!”
“Make it three. Frannie and Luke need one too. Their wedding is June 22. Two weeks away.”
“They aren’t wasting any time. He hasn’t been here long. Are you all right with this?” Rachael had heard nothing but positive comments about Luke. From what she had observed of him at Sunday services, he reminded her of Stephen, Caleb’s bruder, who was mild-mannered, with nothing seeming to ruffle his feathers, even Frannie’s barking orders. Luke might be perfect for her.
“Yes. Luke could be my bruder’s twin as far as his personality goes. They’ll be fine.”
“I’ll leave you two. Congratulations again.” Magdelena skipped out of the room.
Caleb snapped his fingers. “One more thing. I asked the bishop for one counseling session instead of several. We’ll be going to Frannie and Luke’s wedding, and we don’t have much time before ours.”
“When?” Rachael had attended counseling sessions with her fiancé, John, before he was killed years ago, and she had no doubt Caleb and she would have little difficulty agreeing on finances, putting each other before themselves, and always making God first in their lives and marriage.
“Thursday, June 24, after you finish work. Is that date all right with you?”
“Of course. I’m grateful the bishop has confidence in us to allow us to meet one time. Although he doesn’t need to worry about us. We have our priorities in order.”
“Yes. I look forward to talking over concerns, problems, finances, and more with you as true partners in marriage. I want you to do the same, and I have no doubt you will.” He kissed the back of her hand.
“I will, and I do feel the same. Oh, Caleb. I can’t wait until we’re together forever.” She never thought this day would kumme. She’d been her own worst enemy. No more. God had been trying to tell her all along that Caleb was the one, and she just needed to be still and listen. She had never felt lighter in her step or happier. “Kumme to supper. We’ll have a night of planning with Joseph and Mamm.”
“I’ll be there at six. Goodbye, my love.” He tipped his hat and walked out of the kitchen.
She took a deep breath and hugged herself.
* * *
Rachael hurried home from work, went inside the haus to the kitchen, and breathed in the aroma of beef stew. “Mamm, I invited Caleb to supper tonight.”
Mamm stopping stirring the stew. “Should I get my hopes up?”
“I sure hope so.” Joseph smiled.
“Yes. Caleb came to the bakery this afternoon, and I asked him to marry me. I’ve been foolish to assume I know what’s best for him. I’m taking him at his word. We’re getting married in a double ceremony, like we planned before.” She had been thrilled and happier than she’d been in a while. God had worked in their lives, Frannie’s, Luke’s, Nathan’s, and Pauline’s. She never should’ve doubted Caleb or taken things into her own hands. She hadn’t really given her concern over marrying Caleb to God. She’d held on to her doubts, grown impatient, and made wrong decisions. She was grateful to have this second chance with Caleb.
Mamm set her spoon on the counter and engulfed her in a hug. “This is wonderful news.”
Joseph beamed. “Your mamm and I have been praying and waiting for this day. I’m looking forward to congratulating Caleb this evening.”
“Did Caleb already check with the bishop on adding you and Caleb to the ceremony?” Mamm returned to the stove.
“Yes. The bishop was pleased about our wedding, and he’s making an exception in our case to have one counseling session rather than several. Caleb accompanied Luke there to lend him support when Luke asked the bishop to marry him and Frannie, and he used the same meeting with the bishop to ask about our wedding.”
“What?” Mamm’s eyes widened. “I’m shocked.”
“Caleb said Luke reminds him of his bruder, Stephen. He doesn’t mind Frannie’s bossiness or laziness, and he adores her and Lily. Frannie liked Luke but didn’t know whether to trust him to stay in her life. Caleb was here in Charm to stay, and he was a man she could count on. She wasn’t in love with him. She wanted to marry him for convenience. She admitted she has feelings for Luke, so he suggested they get married.”
Joseph set the table. “I noticed Nathan and Pauline sitting together at the meal after the Sunday services after the bishop’s message, and I ran into them in town too. They seem like a couple courting.”
“They are courting. God has taken care of all of us.” Rachael pulled back the white curtain. “Caleb’s here.” She ran to greet him and opened the front door. “I told them our news. I couldn’t wait.”
“I want to tell the world!” He kissed her cheek.
They went to the kitchen and took their seats. Mamm and Joseph congratulated them as they sat down to supper.
“Mamm, are your dress and Joseph’s suit all finished?” Rachael spread a generous amount of apple butter on her biscuit.
“Yes. And I’ve been stitching your dress since the first time Caleb proposed. I was sure you’d wear it one day. Now, we need Caleb’s measurements, and I’ll have his suit complete before the wedding.” Mamm covered Rachael’s hand.
“Mamm, danki. I wasn’t sure how I was going to find time to stitch a dress, and it’s not my best talent. I’m relieved I don’t have to fret about it.” Rachael squeezed Mamm’s fingers.
“Joseph has friends assigned to bringing over the benches and tables. I pray the weather will cooperate. If need be, we can move everyone inside and push the furniture aside.”
“What more do we need to do?” Rachael wished she was as organized and talented as Mamm for having everything in place for a social or other event.
“We’re all set. I’ve spoken with our friends, and they’re bringing plenty of food dishes. You just need to make our cakes. Liza insisted on making the centerpieces for the tables, which are daisies in Mason jars. Our friends are letting us use their tablecloths, along with ours, so we’ll have enough. We’re ready.” Mamm grinned.
“I wish Adelaide could attend our wedding. Caleb, you’d like her. I want you to go with Joseph and me to New Philadelphia soon so I can introduce you.” She had a fondness for Adelaide, and she missed her. She couldn’t explain the fast connection of friendship they’d had, but she was grateful for it. She’d never abandon her, and she’d help her all she could with her boppli.
Joseph frowned. “She wouldn’t be accepted here in the kind of clothes she wears. She’s a sweet woman, but I’m sure you’ve noticed, she’s simpleminded. She’s not as sharp as most women, like yourself, at twenty-five. I love her innocence, but it is also to her detriment. She’s determined to live the life her mamm showed her as she grew up in the saloon. She’s not even tried the Amish life. To her, our lifestyle is too stifling.”
“Does she believe in God? Did her mamm?” Rachael bit her lip. Maybe this was too personal a question to ask. She didn’t want to upset Joseph.
“Yes, she believes in God. Her mamm did too. I’m not sure if they had a personal relationship with God. They didn’t attend church. She said they had enough prejudice from the ladies in town when they shopped. They didn’t want to open themselves up to it from the church ladies at Sunday services.”
“I’m sad they didn’t stay Amish. Then we would’ve had Adelaide with us already. She would’ve gone to Sunday services with us.”
“God knows their hearts. It’s not for us to judge. He wouldn’t have approved of their lifestyle. But they don’t see their life in the outside world as wrong. None of us are perfect. We all find ways to justify things in our life from time to time that God may not approve of. Then we recognize it and ask for forgiveness. All we can do is pray for Adelaide and her unborn boppli.”
They finished supper, and Rachael and Joseph did the dishes while Mamm measured Caleb for his suit.
Joseph accepted a wet plate from her to dry. “Adelaide wouldn’t be wilkom here, but we could squeeze in a quick visit since your mamm has everything in order for the wedding.”
Rachael beamed. “Maybe Caleb can go with us. I want to introduce them, and then she’ll understand she has another member to add to her family besides you, me, and Mamm.”
Rachael washed and Joseph dried the dishes, and they put them away in the maple cabinets.
Caleb and Mamm returned to the kitchen. “We’re all done. How’s it going in here?” Mamm scanned the kitchen.
“We’re done too.” Rachael hung the dish towel on the iron hook beside the sink. “Caleb, could you take two days off to visit New Philadelphia with me?”
“When?”
“Before our wedding?” Rachael folded her hands under her chin.
Mamm gasped. “We don’t have time for you to make a visit before the wedding, do we?”
Joseph shrugged. “You’ve organized everything we need for the wedding. Caleb’s suit is all you have left to do, and Adelaide would love knowing about the wedding before it happens.”
“For you, I’ll do anything,” Mamm said.
“Mamm, will you join us?” Rachael went to her.
“I’m sorry. I can’t. I’ll stay and finish Caleb’s suit and make sure everything is in order for our day. You, Joseph, and Caleb go. Adelaide will appreciate a visit from you, and she’ll be delighted to meet Caleb. Also, you can check and find out how she’s feeling.”
“I don’t know, are we out of our minds going to New Philadelphia now?” Rachael winced. “There’s also Frannie and Luke’s wedding a week before ours.”
“Yes, but let’s go anyway.” Caleb chuckled.
Rachael gestured for them to join her in the living room. She opened the desk drawer and pulled out a calendar. “We have a church service this Sunday. Is it possible for all of us to go Thursday and return on Saturday?”
“I can.” Joseph removed a small pad of paper and marked it with a pencil from the inside hidden pocket of his shirt.
“I didn’t think we were allowed to have pockets,” Caleb teased.
“We aren’t, but this one is hidden.” Joseph gave him an impish grin. “I don’t wear this shirt often.”
“We all have our secrets. I have a loose board in the bedroom where I’ve kept pictures of Mamm, Daed, and Stephen. A photographer in town took our pictures without us knowing it and then offered to sell them to us. Daed was furious at first, and then Mamm coaxed him into buying them. He’d do anything for her. She promised to hide them in the haus and not mention them. She showed me where they were in case anything happened to them. I treasure those forbidden photographs.”
“I won’t tell.” Joseph clapped a hand to his shoulder.
“I will make arrangements so I can go those days,” Caleb said.
Rachael couldn’t wait to show Caleb New Philadelphia, and to introduce him to Adelaide.
* * *
Wednesday, Rachael asked Liza if she’d fill in for her at the bakery while she was gone. She told Liza that Caleb was able to go to New Philadelphia this time to meet Adelaide, and Liza supported her decision. She was happy to take her place at the bakery.
Rachael left Charm early Thursday morning with Joseph and Caleb. Mamm had packed jars of water to drink and sandwiches to eat along the way. They made short stops and arrived in New Philadelphia seven hours later.
“Caleb, they have a peddler who sells cotton candy, and another who sells Cracker Jack. The town is full of vendors and the shops are larger than ours in Charm. They have large factories where they manufacture steel and rubber products, farm equipment, and more. They have big clothing and shoe stores. It’s fun to go to the Erie Canal, where there are passenger and cargo boats using the locks to transit.”
“You’ve learned a lot about New Philadelphia on your visits here. I’m impressed.” Caleb watched the crowd.
“Joseph has schooled me on most of it. New Philadelphia is a fun place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live here. The streets are too full of townsfolk, and the shops have little to offer to the Amish. We don’t need much of what New Philadelphia offers. I feel out of place here.” She liked her simple Amish life, the order of things, the camaraderie she had with her friends, and being sheltered from the news about the war going on in other countries. She heard enough of it from Dr. Harrison and the sheriff to make her want to cry for the families who had kinner enlisted to serve in case the United States decided to join the war. She remembered some of the young men’s names they mentioned on their visits to the bakery and prayed for them often.
Joseph dropped his buggy at the livery, and they walked over to the boardinghaus, where he secured two rooms. He handed Rachael her key, and Caleb would room with him. “Let’s meet in the lobby in twenty minutes. I’d like to wash my face and rest for a couple of minutes.”
Rachael and Caleb agreed, and they went to their rooms.
* * *
Caleb washed his face and told Joseph he’d be in the lobby. He hadn’t been to New Philadelphia before and he was curious to tour the town. The more he was with Joseph, the more he liked him, and it was easy to consider him family. Rachael and Joseph seemed to share a close bond, and he admired Joseph for sharing his niece’s whereabouts and lifestyle with them. Not all Amish would’ve accepted his close relationship with his niece.
Rachael came downstairs and met him. “What do you think?”
“The lobby is fancy, with heavy curtains and chandeliers. The carpet is red to match, and the clothes worn by the Englischers are quite the assortment. Men wear an array of casual pants and shirts with pockets in both and different style hats than the Englischers who live in Charm or visit. I suppose it’s because this town is much larger than Charm. This town is busy with buggies, wagons, and automobiles. We don’t have many automobiles in Charm.” The train whistle blew, and he covered his ears. “I don’t like it so far.”
Rachael chuckled. “It’s definitely a big dose of the outside world. But it will be worth the trip for you to meet Adelaide. She’s family. She should know you.”
Joseph meandered down the stairs. “Ready?”
They nodded and ventured out onto the boardwalk. Peddlers approached them to sell their candy, watches, hats, and more.
Caleb kept Rachael between himself and Joseph. He didn’t like all the Englischer men around Rachael. They were inconsiderate and loud.
They arrived at the saloon. Joseph motioned to the restaurant beside it. “Rachael, you wait here. Caleb, you should wait with her.”
Caleb sat on the bench out front. Rachael sat next to him.
Two men argued on the bench next to them. The stout man waggled his finger. “President Wilson is the worst, in my opinion. I’m not pleased with the decisions he’s made.”
“He’s doing the best he can with the war going on around us. We’ll become a part of it soon, mark my words. Let’s talk about something else. I don’t want to argue with you all day. Remember, I told you I met Sir Sandford Fleming on my trip to Canada to visit my cousin? He’s the man who invented standard time. Smart scientist and engineer. Sad, though, he’s miserable and won’t leave his house. After all the man has accomplished with the railroad and time zones.”
Rachael and Caleb exchanged a surprised look. They listened to the two men and pretended to stare out into the crowd. Caleb didn’t want the men to become aware they were eavesdropping.
“I remember you telling me about that man, Fleming. Interesting, and unfortunate he isn’t living a happy life. I hope your friend gets better.”
Caleb had grabbed a newspaper now and then to read what was going on in the outside world. He didn’t talk about it. The Amish were against learning outside news. He remembered Sir Sandford’s name. The man had been a brilliant inventor and scientist, in addition to being an engineer. It seemed like an insurmountable task to create universal time. He was thankful the man accomplished this because it benefited everyone. “Are you amazed at what some of the men of the world accomplish?”
“Yes. Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like if you’d gone all the way through school and on to higher learning?”
“No. I’m content living Amish and working on a farm. We’ll have a comfortable life, and we don’t need most of the things the world has to offer. I have no desire to be an inventor or scientist. I’m looking forward to being your husband. That’s enough for me.”
* * *
Rachael wouldn’t have wanted him to be curious about the things the outside world had to offer. She wanted a husband who was dedicated to the Amish life without reservations, and she was grateful Caleb was the man for her.
Joseph rushed back to them. “Madge told me Adelaide is in her room and the boppli is kumming. Rachael, she said you can be with Adelaide. I don’t know how you feel about being in the saloon.”
Rachael wanted to go to her. She’d be in Adelaide’s room and not part of the saloon business. “Caleb, what’s your opinion?” She didn’t want to go if he thought it unacceptable. She would probably have to walk through the part of the saloon where they were serving patrons. She was uncertain if she should be with Adelaide, given the circumstances.
“You should go to her. She’s family. Joseph and I will be here if you need us.”
Rachael loved him for understanding. She headed to the saloon.
“Wait.” Joseph grabbed her arm. “I’ll take you to her room.”
“Danki.”
He escorted her through the saloon and to Adelaide’s room. “I’ll be outside with Caleb, or we’ll be in the restaurant next door.”
“I’ll let you know in an hour or so how she’s doing.”
“I’m worried about her. Please do, and be careful if you leave her room. Have Madge or one of the girls walk you out.”
“Don’t worry. I can manage.” She waited until Joseph went back down the stairs. She tapped on the door, opened it, and found Madge wiping Adelaide’s forehead with a wet cloth. The doctor was at the end of the bed.
Adelaide groaned and then reached for her. Her face was pale and her voice was weak. In almost a whisper, she said, “Rachael, you’re here. Please stay beside me and hold my hand.”
Rachael’s eyes pooled with tears. She hurried to her, dragged a chair close to her bedside, and clasped her hand. “I love you, Adelaide. I’ll be here as long as you need me.”
Madge’s worried eyes stared into Rachael’s. “She’s been in labor since yesterday afternoon. She’s exhausted. Since Dr. Kelly and you are with her, I’ll go grab a sandwich and some tea and change my clothes. I’ll return soon.”
“Yes. You must be tired. Take your time.” Rachael accepted the cloth and bowl of water from Madge. She set the bowl on the nightstand beside the bed. She dipped the cloth in the water and dabbed Adelaide’s cheeks.
Adelaide screamed and writhed.
The doctor’s eyes widened. “Push!”
Adelaide’s eyes were closed, and it was as if she were asleep.
Dr. Kelly worked to deliver the boppli. Rachael shook Adelaide’s shoulder. “Adelaide, please wake up.”
The doctor held the boppli, and tears stained Rachael’s cheeks. She was tiny and beautiful. He cut the cord and tied it. There was another table in the room with a bigger bowl of water to wash the newborn, and a blanket to wrap her in.
Dr. Kelly handed her the boppli. “Please wash and wrap the baby. I need to check Adelaide.”
Rachael accepted the boppli, who was kicking her little legs and moving her arms. She wished Adelaide would wake up. She needed to hold her boppli after all her hard work in birthing her. The doctor seemed to want to keep her busy and away from the bed. Something wasn’t right. She glanced over her shoulder over and over again as she washed and wrapped the boppli.
He had hurried to grab his stethoscope and hold it to Adelaide’s chest. His shirt was damp with sweat. He then checked her pulse and breathing. “I’m sorry. She’s gone.” He slumped in the chair and held his head in his hands.
Rachael held the tiny boppli. “What! She’s going to be fine. She’s tired. She’s asleep. She talked to us a minute ago.” Her lips quivered as she carried the precious bundle to Adelaide’s side. She shook her arm. “Please, Adelaide, your boppli needs you. Please. Doctor, do something.”
“I’m sorry. There’s nothing I can do. I suspect Adelaide had a bad heart, but I never know for certain what takes the life of a mother giving birth.” He washed his hands in a third bowl on the other nightstand, lifted the boppli from her, unwrapped the blanket, and examined her. “She’s a healthy little girl. Again, I’m sorry for your loss.” He handed the boppli back to Rachael, then gathered the soiled cloths, dropped them in a clean flour sack bag, and washed and dried the rest of what he’d used from his bag and put them back in it. “I’ll find Madge and have her kumme to Adelaide’s room.”
Rachael was numb. She wept as she held the newborn, who was sucking on her little finger. She stared at Adelaide with her bloodstained gown and sheets. Her blond, damp hair from sweat against the pillowcase. Her eyes closed, as if she would wake any moment. It wasn’t supposed to happen this way. Adelaide would’ve been overjoyed they’d been here together to wilkom this little one into the world. They would’ve marveled at her dochder’s tiny hands and feet.
Madge and Jewel, crying, entered the room and shut the door behind them. Madge shook her head. “I can’t believe she’s gone.”
Jewel wiped her eyes and opened the clothes press. She pulled out a clean sheet and covered Adelaide. She lifted the boppli from Rachael. “She’s beautiful. She has Adelaide’s deep blue eyes and her blond hair.” She swiped a tear from her cheek. “Rachael, Adelaide talked about you a lot. She said she couldn’t explain it, but she loved you from the time you had your first conversation. She said she couldn’t wait for your visits, and she wanted you in her boppli’s life.”
Rachael pulled a handkerchief from her sleeve and wiped her damp eyes. “She was easy to love. I felt the same about her.” She couldn’t imagine not talking to her again. None of this seemed real.
Madge circled her arm around Rachael. “The doctor said he’ll notify the undertaker. He should be here any minute.”
“Should we wash the body?” Rachael wanted to take care of Adelaide.
“The undertaker will wrap her and take care of washing her for us. I’ll notify the funeral director and make the necessary arrangements. He also owns the cemetery. Would you like to attend? We could have the service tomorrow if you choose to stay.”
Rachael nodded. “Danki. Yes. I’d like to attend. I’m sure Joseph and Caleb will too.” She didn’t want to leave until she had put Adelaide’s body to rest. “I’d like to wash and dress her in a fresh gown.”
Jewel rocked the boppli in her arms. “I’ll hold the baby.”
Madge opened the clothes press and removed underclothes and a blue dress with a ruffled, low-necked collar and covered buttons to the waist and a full skirt. “Here’s her dress.” She lifted sheets and a clean flower sack. “You can put the soiled linens in the flour sack. I’ll bring you a fresh pitcher of clean water and towels.”
Jewel followed Madge. “One of the girls likes goats’ milk and keeps it in the ice chest. I’ll feed the baby.”
“Her name’s Marie. Adelaide had her name picked out,” Rachael said.
“Marie it is.” Jewel glanced at Adelaide and then hurried out of the room.
Rachael cut the gown off Adelaide, and Madge returned with the linens and water.
Madge wrung her hands. “I’ll go to the funeral home. It’s within walking distance. I’ll be back soon. Will you be all right doing this by yourself? The other girls are working and filling in for Adelaide and Jewel. The undertaker may be here before I return. Teresa Bell works for the funeral home, and she assists Mr. Young. She schedules the service and burial.”
Tears pooled in Rachael’s eyes. “I’ll be fine. I’ve had to do this before. I want to prepare Adelaide’s body.” She didn’t want to leave her.
“I’ll leave you, but I’ll hurry. We’ll hold the visitation, funeral, and burial all in one day since you’re from out of town. I’ll tell you the time when I return. I noticed Joseph outside, and I’ll tell him.”
“Danki.” Rachael was short on time and didn’t want to leave for fear the undertaker would arrive and she wouldn’t have finished preparing Adelaide’s body. She rolled her body from one side to the other as she changed the bedsheets. She washed, dried, and changed Adelaide into clean underclothing and a dress not as revealing as her other clothes. She brushed her curly hair as best she could. She then covered her with another clean sheet. She knelt and prayed, “Dear Heavenly Father, I’m brokenhearted. Please give me the courage and strength to say and do the things you would have me say to Adelaide’s friends. Adelaide said she believed and trusted in you. I pray she’s with you. I don’t want Marie to grow up here. Please intervene on Marie’s half. Guide and direct me. Please, Heavenly Father. Amen.”
Rachael rose and answered the knock at the door. A short, stout, and bald man with empathetic eyes removed his hat. “I’m George Young, the undertaker, and this is my son, Benny. I brought a clean blanket to drape over the body as we remove her and take her to the funeral parlor. Madge is at our office now, making the arrangements with Teresa. You must be Miss Schlabach.”
She nodded and stepped aside. “Yes. Adelaide is family.” She watched them take her out of the room on a stretcher, then followed them outside. She figured she’d be safe with them rather than leaving on her own to meet Joseph and Caleb. She scanned the saloon for Jewel, but she wasn’t there. She shook with grief as she followed the men. She stepped outside, and Caleb opened his arms. She didn’t care that they were in public. She fell against him and wept.
Joseph stood next to them, holding a handkerchief to his eyes.
She pulled away. “She was exhausted, but she spoke to me. Her voice was weak and she looked bad, but never did I expect she was near death. I miss her so much already. Marie, the boppli, resembles her. She’s precious.”
“I want to hold her.” Joseph dabbed his eyes. “Where is she?”
“Jewel, Adelaide’s friend, has her. She knows where to get goat’s milk to feed her. I don’t know where she is at the moment. We’ll ask Madge when she returns from the funeral home. Let’s wait on the bench in front of the restaurant.”
Joseph wrung his hands and paced. “I can’t believe Adelaide’s gone. My schweschder’s death was sudden, like this. It’s difficult to take in. Who will care for Marie? I want to take her home with us. We’re her family.”
Rachael blew her nose and gathered her thoughts. “After I prepared Adelaide for the undertaker, I prayed to God to guide us on what to do about Marie. I’m hoping Madge will offer us Marie without any opposition. Everything has happened so fast. I’m in shock, and I’m sure you are too, Joseph. My mind was muddled. There wasn’t a right moment to address it with Madge.”
Caleb shook his head. “One thing at a time. Let’s wait and see what Madge has to say about Marie, if anything. We’ll ask her for Marie if she doesn’t offer her before we leave. Here kummes Madge.”
They stood.
Madge swiped a tear with the back of her hand. “I’m closing the saloon then to allow the staff to attend Adelaide’s service. The visitation will be held at one, the service at two, and the burial at three. Mr. Young has agreed to say a few words. I gave him a note about Adelaide and to guide him on what to say. You can add anything to the note you’d like tomorrow. Mr. Young will have everything ready at noon, in case you’d like private time with Adelaide before the mourners arrive. I hope I haven’t offended you by taking over the arrangements.”
Joseph cleared his throat. “No. You’re gracious to set everything in place. We’re in unfamiliar territory, and we’re grateful you’re willing to help us. It’s to our advantage that you know Mr. Young and Miss Bell. Is there anything I can do? I’ll pay for the undertaker’s services and cemetery plot. Did you have to make a partial or full payment?” He removed paper bills and passed them to her.
Madge pushed his hand away. “I insist on paying the undertaker and for the cemetery plot. He and I are old friends. He won’t charge me much. Adelaide was like a daughter to me. This is something I want to do for her. Adelaide was special. She had a childlike innocence. She blessed our hearts with her voice. No one else has a voice like hers at the saloon.” She put a finger to her trembling lips. “I’m sorry. I had to take a moment. It’s hard not to cry.”
Joseph let tears drip from his face and didn’t wipe them. “Don’t apologize. I’ll miss her too. I appreciate your generosity and kind words. I’m thankful she had you to watch over her.”
Rachael could understand why Adelaide loved Madge. She didn’t understand Englischer ways or what their lives were like in the outside world, but she was glad Madge had been close to Adelaide. “Danki for all you’ve done for us.”
“Some of the ladies will make sandwiches, and I’ll have the bakery deliver a cake to the social room of the funeral home. I hope you’ll stay after the burial and enjoy the food before you leave for Charm.”
Joseph wiped his face. “We’ll be there. Danki.”
Madge removed a handkerchief from her skirt pocket. “May I have a word?” Madge waved them closer to her.
“Rachael, would you take and raise Marie? The saloon isn’t the proper home for her. Without Adelaide, the girls and I don’t want the responsibility. We work long hours as waitresses, singers, dishwashers, cleaners, and whatever else needs done to keep this place in good shape. We were willing to make it work while Adelaide was alive, but we would rather not now. Please don’t judge us as coldhearted. You’re a much better fit to raise Marie.”
Rachael thanked God for His intervention. He’d answered her prayer. “I’d love to take Marie. Oh, Madge. I will miss Adelaide every day. This way, I’ll have a part of her with me whenever I look at Marie.”
Joseph held a trembling fist to his mouth. “Bless you, Madge.”
Caleb nodded. “We’ll be happy to take her. You can rest assured she’ll be protected and raised in a loving home.”
Madge wrapped her arms around Rachael, and they cried together.
Jewel joined them, holding Marie. “Did you tell them?”
“Yes. Rachael’s agreed to take Marie.” Madge gestured for Jewel to give her to Rachael.
Rachael accepted the precious bundle. She’d be a mamm. Adelaide had made her a mamm. She had a dochder. It didn’t seem real or possible. She was grief-stricken to have lost Adelaide, but she’d make sure Marie knew how much Adelaide meant to her. She held the miracle in her arms. She was happy and sad. “Danki.”
Jewel left and returned quickly with a large bag of bottles, nappies, blankets, boppli clothes, goat’s milk, and more boppli things. “This should be enough while you’re in New Philadelphia and on your ride home.”
Caleb peered in the bag. “This is amazing. There’s plenty of everything.”
Madge shrugged. “We had a baby shower for Adelaide last week. The girls and ladies from the church, plus some of the townsfolk, were generous. She was loved.”
Rachael thanked them again. She held Marie as they walked to the boardinghaus. “I’m ready to take my shoes off and rest. I’ll put this little one in one of the dresser drawers in the bureau in the room. I hope she’ll sleep.”
Caleb caressed her cheek. “Joseph and I will have supper in the dining room, and we’ll bring you a dish of food before we retire to our rooms.”
Joseph kissed Marie’s forehead. “She’s such a contented boppli. I’m thankful we’re taking her with us. It would’ve ripped my heart out to have her stay here. Thanks be to God.” He folded his hands and raised them to Heaven.
Caleb set the big bag inside Rachael’s room and left with Joseph.
Rachael opened the last drawer in the dresser, set two thick blankets inside, and lowered Marie onto them. The boppli slept. Rachael stared at her tiny face. Madge was right. This day was like a whirlwind. It didn’t seem possible she’d kumme to visit Adelaide, thinking she’d be delighting with her over Marie’s birth, and ended with taking Marie with her as her new mamm. Adelaide had given her the most precious gift in the world. She removed her shoes and fell back on the bed.
An hour later, she woke to a knock. She opened the door.
Caleb had a beef sandwich and noodle soup. “How’s our dochder?”
She started. Marie was their dochder. She and Caleb were parents. It seemed strange, sad, and wonderful at the same time. “She’s sleeping. I can’t believe we are her parents.”
“I have to say it to myself over and over again. It doesn’t seem real. We’ve been blessed beyond measure. I’m happy, but I’m full of sorrow over Adelaide. It’s such a jumbled bunch of emotions.” He glanced at the plastic box in his hand. “I almost forgot. This is ice to put the goat’s milk in to keep it fresh. I bought it to take with us. We can stop for ice on the way. Until then, the general store has some. I’ll let you rest. I’m across the hall if you need me.”
“Danki. I love you, Caleb. This is all a bit easier with you here. You’re my rock to lean on. I’m sure Joseph is grateful too.”
“You can always depend on me, Rachael.” He kissed her cheek. “Try to rest. Good night.” Caleb went to his room.
Rachael closed her door. She took two bites of the sandwich and managed to keep down the soup. Her stomach churned and her body ached with sorrow. She prayed to God for comfort for all of them, and she thanked Him for precious Marie.
Rachael woke twice to Marie’s cries, and she changed her nappy and fed her. She was weary, but she didn’t care. Each time she held Marie, she reveled in holding her. Then she’d remember Adelaide, and she’d talk to Marie about what a sweet soul her mamm had been. She didn’t care if Marie was too young to understand. She’d keep telling her for years to kumme.
She didn’t know what to expect at an Englischer funeral, though she wouldn’t let anyone stand in her way of going. Adelaide had meant too much to her. Joseph, Caleb, and she would stand out in their Amish clothing. She was afraid they might have second thoughts about attending the services because they wouldn’t be conducted in the Amish way. She also hoped they’d be accepted without prejudice.