Chapter 5
Rachael met Magdelena at the livery Saturday morning, and they strolled over to the bakery together. She unlocked the door, with Joseph and Mamm heavy on her mind. “I understand we’ll be going to Joseph’s haus this evening. I understand he’s invited you and Toby.”
Magdelena removed her apron from the wooden peg, pulled it over her head, and tied the waist strings behind her back. “He knocked on our door last night. A knock later in the evening is always concerning. He told Toby he’d been with you, Caleb, and Eleanor at the market in town. We were relieved nothing was wrong and happy his reason for the visit was an invitation.”
“Don’t you find it odd he’s invited all our family to his haus? He also invited Caleb, but he had committed to watching Lily for Frannie. Until now, Mamm has cooked, or he takes her out for dinner or supper.” Now Rachael wondered why.
Magdelena stood across from her at the large butcher-block table they had in the center of the kitchen to create breads and desserts. She dropped spices into her bowl. “Maybe he’ll ask us to his home more often. He may have waited to cook for us to gauge how things were going between him and Eleanor before taking this step.”
“Toby has been busy, and we don’t talk often. What does he think of Joseph and Mamm courting?”
“He isn’t thrilled. His attitude is selfish. He doesn’t want another daed. I have a different perspective on this than Toby. At Sunday services, or when I’ve run into them in town, Eleanor is glowing, and he’s beaming. She should let herself fall in love again and marry if she chooses.”
“Caleb has influenced me to accept Joseph and Mamm’s courtship. Joseph’s done nothing wrong. I was being selfish about them when I first found out. I have changed my attitude about them, and I agree with you. I’m surprised you didn’t win Toby over to your way of thinking. He listens to you most of the time.” Rachael hoped Toby wouldn’t stand in their way.
Mamm often hummed hymns, and her cheerfulness was better than her sadness and grief after Daed’s passing. She should encourage Toby to trust Mamm to make the right decision for herself.
“Toby asked me to keep what he told me about Joseph in confidence. We’re best friends, and his concern has put me in a difficult position. I’ve been dying to tell you what has him in a tizzy, but he won’t budge on letting me tell you. He promised to bring his problem with Joseph out in the open tonight.”
Rachael’s mouth hung open. “So something’s not right about Joseph?” She didn’t want Mamm’s heart to break. What did Toby know? It couldn’t be too bad if Magdelena was still rooting for them.
“Let’s change the subject before I say too much. Did you have fun at the market? We considered going, but Toby and Andrew chose to finish a table to sell. I didn’t mind. I visited with Maryann and little Betsy while they worked. She’s adorable. I told her we miss her working with us, but we’re glad she’s enjoying her marriage to Andrew and raising Betsy. She loves being home, and Betsy keeps her busy.”
“Will you leave the bakery when you have a boppli?” Rachael would miss her, and she didn’t know any of their friends who would want to work at the bakery.
“Betsy is almost two and a half and she’s into everything. She’s also talking more. Maryann said she’s hoping they have more kinner. All of this has made me think about what I will do when I have a boppli. I will quit to be with my family like Maryann. I won’t want to miss his or her first words, first steps, daily growth, and so much more. I hope we have four or more kinner. Don’t worry. We’ll hire someone to take my place before I leave.” She grinned. “If you and Caleb marry, you might have a boppli before me, and then you’ll want to stay home.”
Rachael wished what Magdelena said was true. “I pray you and Toby will have a boppli soon. I want to be an aunt.” She smiled. “You’ll both be wonderful parents.” She’d spoil their kinner rotten. But this wasn’t a subject she wanted to dwell on. She hadn’t told her friends the whole story about the accident that took her fiancé John’s life.
“Our dog Patches will have to do for now. He loves to snuggle with me in the evenings. Tell me about the vendors and what was on sale last night.” Magdelena stirred her blueberry filling.
Rachael laughed. “Caleb and I had a good time together, and Mamm and Joseph did too. We stuffed ourselves with beef sandwiches, nuts, and fried apple pies.” She told Magdelena about the picnic tables they found and her conversation with Ava. “I’m fortunate I ran into Ava, and we had a chance to clear up any misunderstanding she had about my visit to Nathan’s to take Joy home. She had the impression from Joy that I’d made an effort to visit them.”
Magdelena laughed. “Joy is wiser than you’d expect at her age. She’s learning a bad habit, using her words to her advantage. I hope Nathan settles on Ava or another woman who will squelch that kind of behavior in Joy. I’m glad you and Ava talked too. She’s a nice girl. Did you do anything else?”
“Yes. An Englischer raced little piglets and awarded money to the winner. It was the funniest thing to watch. We had a lot of fun. I’m glad we went.” Rachael looked forward to attending more events with Caleb, Mamm, and Joseph.
* * *
Rachael baked some of her favorite things all day to line the bakery shelves. She baked five loaves of white bread, four blueberry and raisin pies, three peach pies, and peanut butter fudge. She set aside a peach pie to take to Joseph’s haus. “Magdelena, Mamm and I will meet you at Joseph’s place at six.”
“Are you bringing the peach pie or is it for you?” Magdelena opened the front door.
“It’s for all of us.” Rachael smiled.
“I was hoping you’d say for all of us. Danki for not pushing me to tell you more about what Toby told me about Joseph.”
“I wanted to coax you into telling me, but I don’t want to do anything to compromise your and Toby’s relationship.” Rachael kissed Magdelena’s cheek. “I couldn’t ask for a better schweschder-in-law and best friend.” She departed from Magdelena and drove home. Her friend hadn’t divulged a clue as to Toby’s concern about Joseph. Hopefully she’d find out soon enough.
Mamm came out of her bedroom when she got there. “I’ll be in the buggy.”
“We’ve got time to spare. Are you in a hurry?” Rachael raised her brows.
“I’d like to arrive early to help Joseph. You don’t mind, do you?” Mamm tucked a stray hair back in Rachael’s kapp.
“I’ll change my dress and we’ll leave.” She passed Mamm the peach pie.
“My favorite.” Mamm grinned.
Rachael dressed in a clean dress and joined her mamm at the buggy.
Mamm sat beside her and held on to the pie. “I’m curious as to what Joseph has prepared for us. I didn’t know he could cook.”
How serious were Mamm and Joseph? Had they discussed marriage? Mamm seemed anxious.
“Are you in love with him?” Rachael held her breath.
Mamm blushed. “Yes. We haven’t been courting long, but I fell in love with him early on. I wanted to marry again if the right man came along, and he did. My marriage to your daed was blissful, and no one can take his place. Joseph caught me by surprise with his interest in me, and I couldn’t ask for a better beau.”
“I’m glad you’re happy.” She hoped Joseph would have a reasonable explanation to Toby’s inquiry. Should she warn Mamm? Her pulse quickened. She didn’t want Mamm to question Joseph. Then Magdelena would know she had hinted to Mamm there might be a problem with Toby about Joseph. She’d have to keep quiet and let Toby ask Joseph about his issue. What could it be?
Mamm patted Rachael’s leg. “I appreciate your support. I understand accepting another man in my life will be an adjustment. I’m certain you’ll find Joseph a wilkom addition to our family, when and if he proposes.”
“Have you spoken to Toby about Joseph?” Rachael gripped the reins tighter. She prayed Toby would be satisfied with Joseph’s answer to his question and wouldn’t disapprove of Joseph and cause a division between him and Mamm. They’d always been a close family.
“No. He and Toby have visited at after-Sunday services and chatted when they’ve run into each other a couple of times in town. I don’t expect Toby to oppose if Joseph asks me to marry him.” Mamm stared at the road.
Rachael’s heart pounded. Mamm would be hurt and frustrated if Toby showed his opposition. Toby had taken on the role of the leader in their family after Daed died. He’d need to step aside and let Joseph take care of Mamm. She didn’t want strife in their family. Did he have a valid concern, or was he being unreasonable? She dreaded Toby bringing the matter to Joseph’s attention. What if Toby had a valid point? This evening could turn upside down for all of them. She didn’t want any trouble. “If he proposes, you have my blessing.”
Mamm beamed. “Danki.”
Rachael nodded. They arrived and joined the others inside.
“May I help you, Joseph?” Mamm held the peach pie.
“I’d appreciate you setting the table. The beef and vegetables are almost ready to serve. The rest of you can relax and enjoy one another’s company. We’ll call for you soon.” Joseph followed Mamm to the kitchen.
Rachael couldn’t deny the connection between Mamm and Joseph had been consistent each time she’d been with them.
“This is a nice place. You could almost eat off the floor, and nothing is out of place. I’m impressed Joseph can keep it this clean and neat. I’d at least have a pile of laundry hiding somewhere if it were me,” Toby said.
“He may have dirty clothes hidden,” Rachael teased.
“You both stop. Joseph always has a neat appearance, and the same goes for his home. Husband of mine, you could take lessons.” Magdelena sat next to Toby on the settee and nudged him.
Mamm entered the room. “Supper is on the table.”
Rachael was impressed. Joseph had cooked a marvelous supper. The beef slices with broth overtop and his selection of vegetables gave the table color. His beef, buttered broccoli, carrots, and diced onions painted a beautiful meal. She loved applesauce, and he had it instead of salad. “This is amazing. I wish Caleb could’ve joined us. He would love the food you’ve prepared.”
“I’m sorry he couldn’t be here. I enjoy his company. I admire his devotion to his bruder and his family. It was considerate of him to watch Lily for them this evening,” Joseph said.
Mamm clasped Rachael’s hand. “I miss Caleb being here with us too.”
Everyone took their seats, and Joseph prayed and thanked God for the food. “Rachael, danki for providing the pie.”
“My pleasure. How did you become such a good cook?” The beef melted in her mouth and the vegetables were delicious. He’d used the right amount of butter, and they weren’t mushy. She always overcooked or undercooked her vegetables.
“Danki, Rachael. Mamm died when I was twelve. She’d been sick for a couple of years before she passed away. She sat at the table and instructed me how to cook and bake many dishes. I’ve always liked to cook,” Joseph said.
Toby cut his meat in bite-size pieces. “I prepare simple dishes, but my beef doesn’t turn out this tender and juicy. What’s your secret?”
“Having enough broth or light gravy to keep it moist, and I don’t buy it from anyone but Magdelena’s daed. He has the best beef around.” Joseph held up his forked bite of beef and grinned.
“I will tell Daed what you said. He loves being a cattle rancher. Compliments on the quality of his beef always make his day,” Magdelena said.
Toby cleaned his plate and pushed it away. “I’m full. What a scrumptious meal. Danki, Joseph.” He crossed his arms. “Do you travel to New Philadelphia, Ohio, often?”
Rachael detected a change in Toby’s demeanor. He sat ramrod straight and his tone was serious. This question was odd. New Philadelphia? Where was Toby going with this?
“Why are you asking this question as if you’re challenging Joseph, Toby?” Mamm gave him a stern look.
Joseph patted her arm. “It’s all right, Eleanor. I’ll answer the question. I have on occasion.”
“Andrew and I like their larger hardware store. Last week, you were there in front of the saloon, speaking with a scantily dressed young woman. I watched you with her, and you handed her money. You spoke for at least five minutes, and she hugged you when you left,” Toby said.
Mamm’s jaw dropped. “Toby, Joseph’s visit to New Philadelphia or who he talks to is none of your business. Furthermore, you should have brought your concern to Joseph and me in private. Even then, I would tell you to drop it. You’re being disrespectful.”
“It’s my business when he’s courting you.” Toby’s tight lips brooked no argument.
“I am aware of who this woman is and why Joseph met her. Drop this conversation right now. You were raised to have better manners than this,” Mamm said.
Rachael’s heart pounded. Why had Joseph met this woman? Mamm said she knew all about this. There must be a reasonable explanation.
Joseph raised his hands, palms out. “Since I’m in love with your mamm, I’ll explain.”
Mamm blushed. “Joseph, I’m embarrassed. Toby shouldn’t have confronted you about this. You don’t need to explain anything to him.”
He patted her hand. “Toby has made my visit known to your family, Eleanor. I will explain to avoid any suspicion.” He addressed Toby, Rachael, and Magdelena. “The young woman I was with is my niece, Adelaide, my schweschder’s dochder. My schweschder, Lois, ran away to live in the outside world at seventeen. Soon after, she was with child. The daed was an Englischer she was not married to, and he left her before Adelaide was born. We exchanged letters to keep in touch. She worked in the saloon in New Philadelphia, like Adelaide, and she loved her sinful life. My parents shunned her and made no effort to keep in touch with her. They passed her correspondence to me and never asked about her. After my parents died, I visited Lois and her child in New Philadelphia. Lois died last year of unknown causes. Now Adelaide and I correspond, and I visit her when I can. She refuses, like Lois, to leave her saloon life. Her earnings are never consistent. I give her money for food and to supplement what she earns. It’s my way of showing her I’m concerned for her welfare and care for her.”
Rachael wasn’t sure Joseph should offer her money, although it was kind of him. “We have to do something. Have you withheld money to encourage her to embrace Amish life? You may be making it too easy for her to stay in the outside world. This is a suggestion and not a criticism of your generosity toward her.”
Joseph nodded. “Her mamm’s bad influence and dislike for the Amish life has had a negative influence on Adelaide. She won’t consider Amish life or change from saloon work to a different and safer job. I had the general store manager ready to hire Adelaide and a family ready to rent her a room. She refused.”
“Mamm’s right. We shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions until we gave you the chance to explain. I apologize. I commend you for helping Adelaide.” Rachael admired Joseph. He’d done what he thought was right, in spite of his parents or Amish practice, to take care of his schweschder before she died and, now, his niece. She was in agreement with Joseph. Amish shouldn’t shun family who leave their community.
Toby’s expression softened. “I hope you’ll forgive me, Joseph. I shouldn’t have assumed the worst.”
Joseph shook his head. “I accept your apology, and I understand why you confronted me out of concern for your mamm. Danki for your support. I can’t, in good conscience, stay away from my niece. I worry about her. I visit her to make sure she’s not sick, injured, or worse. I pray she’ll choose to live a safer and healthier life someday, but I can’t drag her here. If I did, she’d run away. She’s an adult, but she’s simpleminded, and she needs me. She doesn’t believe her lifestyle is wrong. If the situation had been the reverse, I may have arrived at the same conclusion. I’m glad my visits to New Philadelphia and why I go there are out in the open with all of you. I don’t like to share I’m visiting Adelaide with other Amish friends. I don’t want any trouble for any of you, knowing the Amish way is to cut those who leave out of our lives. Most Amish wouldn’t agree with what I’m doing.”
Eleanor glared at her kinner. “Joseph told me about Adelaide when he asked me to court him. I love him for not abandoning Lois or Adelaide. If one of you had left home, I wouldn’t have shunned you. I don’t agree with this Amish practice. She won’t visit Charm, but we can go to her. I’m ashamed of you, Toby, for not bringing this to my attention in private.”
“I’m sorry, Mamm. My intention was to protect you.” Toby’s cheeks reddened.
“I accept your apology.” Mamm gave him a curt nod.
“How may we help Adelaide?” Rachael was relieved Toby was remorseful.
Joseph’s frown turned to a smile. “If I think of anything, I’ll let you know. Danki. I put myself at risk by ignoring the Amish practice to shun Adelaide. I don’t want to compromise any of you by asking for your help. I’m relieved all of you have chosen to be understanding.”
Magdelena hadn’t spoken until now. She quirked a brow. “How old is Adelaide?”
“She’s twenty-two, but she’s immature for her age. She craves attention, and I suppose that’s why she likes to serve food and drinks and sing in the saloon. Adelaide has nothing but praise for her manager, Madge Pickerton. I’ve spoken to Madge about Adelaide. She’s fond of my niece, and she promised to keep an eye on her,” Joseph said.
“Would it help if I went to talk with her?” Rachael was curious to meet her. She couldn’t imagine Adelaide being safe and happy working in a saloon.
“I’m afraid I’ve done everything possible to entice her to leave with me, but she’s stubborn. She doesn’t consider her way of life a sin or unhealthy. But danki for your offer. It’s not a place you should go, even if I were to accompany you.”
“I hope someday I can change your mind. You could take Mamm and me, and we could meet her somewhere outside the saloon. I beg you to reconsider.”
Joseph raised his brows. “I will, Rachael. You might have a point.”
Mamm stood. “Joseph and I keep her in our prayers, and we ask you to do the same. We will also keep in touch with her. Joseph has prepared this delicious meal, and it’s time for dessert and a change in conversation.” She stacked the dirty plates and carried them over to the tin wash pan already filled with water for soaking.
Rachael gathered the utensils and dropped them in the pan, along with the dishes. “Everyone remain seated. I’ll serve the peach pie.” She couldn’t shake off her curiosity about Adelaide.
“Plates are stacked beside the pie, and forks are in the drawer below.” Joseph pointed. “Danki.”
Rachael cut and served the pie to them. She cut Joseph’s a little larger than the rest. It was silly, but it made her feel a little better for what they’d put him through this evening. The more she learned about him, the more she liked him.
“Peach pie is one of my favorite desserts, and this one is exceptional. Danki, Rachael, for providing it.” Joseph set his fork on the side of his plate. He took Eleanor’s hand in his.
Mamm didn’t move her hand, but she blushed and raised her brows.
“Eleanor, I love you. We’ve courted a short time, but we’re not getting any younger. I don’t need to court you any longer to know you are the fraa for me. You occupy my thoughts day and night. You are kind and beautiful, and you shine with God’s love in all you do.” He turned to Rachael, Toby, and Magdelena. “Will you give me permission to marry your mamm? I promise to provide for her, love her, and be loyal to her for the rest of our lives.”
Tears trickled down Mamm’s cheeks. She covered his hand with her other hand. “I’d be honored to marry you.”
“We didn’t say yes.” Toby chuckled.
“I overrule you both. I’m marrying this wonderful man.” Eleanor beamed.
Rachael dabbed her damp eyes with a napkin. “Congratulations to both of you. Looks like we have a wedding to plan.”
Magdelena lifted her shoulders and smiled. “This is great news.”
Toby raised both his hands high and clapped them together. “Joseph, wilkom to the family. I approve. Have you thought about a wedding date?”
“I put the cart before the horse by doing this, but I already scheduled a date with Bishop Fisher. I figured he’d cancel the date he gave me if Eleanor said no. I chose June 29. He has marked the date on his calendar. Is this all right with all of you?” “Absolutely.” Eleanor hugged his neck.
Rachael’s eyes brimmed with joyful tears. Mamm oozed joy. Their marriage would bring changes to their lives, and she’d be ready for them. “Whatever day you choose is perfect.”
Rachael, Mamm, and Magdelena washed the dishes, while the men retreated to the living room.
Mamm accepted a clean, wet plate from Rachael. “Where would you prefer to live?”
Rachael froze. Wouldn’t she live in the haus they had now? Could she manage it? If she worked at the bakery, she wouldn’t have time to plant and take care of the garden or hayfield. Toby helped out, but he was busy on the ranch. “I hadn’t considered it.” She couldn’t count on a future with Caleb until she had a serious talk with him. And she didn’t know when or if he’d propose.
“Joseph told me about the small haus he also owns in back of this property. He hopes Adelaide one day will live there, but it doesn’t seem realistic. Would you like to live there? He said it has a kitchen, a living room, two bedrooms, and a mudroom. Maybe we can look at it before we leave. He asked me to mention it to you.”
Magdelena dried the utensils. “The small haus would be perfect for you, Rachael. You’d have your privacy, and they’d have theirs.”
This might be the best solution. She wouldn’t have to maintain the grounds, and the sale of their haus would relieve Toby of taking care of their farm, and she could help Mamm in her garden at Joseph’s when necessary. “What a generous offer. Yes. I would like to take a peek at it.”
Magdelena hugged Rachael’s shoulders. “You’ll be safe, and you’ll still live a short distance from the bakery.”
“I like the idea.” She’d miss the haus where she and her family had many memories. She pressed a hand to her heart. She could take her memories with her wherever she went.
Rachael finished wiping the table and countertop. She followed Mamm and Magdelena to the living room to join the men.
“Joseph, I mentioned the small haus you have in back to Rachael as you requested. She’s interested. Do you mind giving her a quick tour?” Mamm motioned to the back door.
“Splendid. I’m glad you will consider it.” Joseph led them to the haus about six yards from the main haus. Everyone stood back and let Joseph and Rachael go in first.
She opened the cabinets. A scallop-edged white set of china, with small and large plates and bowls, plain glasses, and brown coffee mugs were in them. “I expected the cabinets would be empty. What a nice surprise.”
“Katherine prepared this haus for Lois and Adelaide when we moved here. She wanted to make it as easy a move for them as possible. She bought the furniture and outfitted it with anything my schweschder and niece would’ve needed. You are wilkom to change or add things to your liking.”
Her heart warmed. “Joseph, this is generous of you. I love this place.” She liked the layout of the kitchen, with plenty of cabinets, a maple table, and four chairs. A desk and spindle chair sat in the corner of the living room, and the bedrooms had end tables, chairs, and clothes presses in each for hanging clothes. There were small front and back porches for enjoying a glass of tea with friends.
“It’s settled, then. It’s yours after your Mamm and I marry, and you can bring or change anything you’d like in the meantime. You’d give us peace of mind if you’d live here, instead of in your present haus. You could walk to us in lieu of having to take a buggy.” Joseph grinned.
He had included her in their plans, like a daed taking care of his dochder. He was thoughtful. She was beginning to understand why he had caught and held Mamm’s attention.
Toby and Magdelena followed them and took a quick peek at the inside of the place, and then they all went back to the main haus and sat down in the living room.
“Rachael, the haus Joseph offers is perfect for you. Do you have any reservations about it?” Toby gave her a questioning smile.
“No. I love the haus. It’s a generous offer, and one I accept. Danki, Joseph. Mamm, will you sell our haus?” She couldn’t have asked for a better living arrangement.
“Yes. We have no reason to keep it. Toby, will you take care of advertising the haus?” Mamm sat next to him and put her hand on his arm.
“What if it sells before you’re ready to move? Maybe we should wait to publicize it until after you’re wed.” Toby glanced from Joseph to Mamm.
Joseph batted the air. “If your haus sells, Rachael and Eleanor can move into the haus behind mine until we wed. It’s not improper. We’re not living together, and Rachael would be there with her mamm.”
Toby’s eyes widened. “True. I’ll put it on the market June 1. I suspect it will go fast. I’ve made repairs, and it is in good condition.”
Magdelena covered her yawn.
“I’d better take you home.” Toby rose. “Danki, Joseph, for this exciting evening.”
“Danki for your blessing, all of you.” Joseph beamed at Mamm.
Rachael bid Joseph, Toby, and Magdelena farewell, and she and Mamm headed home. “This night turned out to be a memory you’ll never forget, Mamm.”
“Yes. I’m ecstatic. I couldn’t ask for a better man than Joseph. I’d asked God to introduce me to my next husband, and He did. Joseph has compassion for others, he’s patient, and he’s fun. I’ll count the days until I’m his fraa.”
“I don’t understand, Mamm. We share most everything. Why didn’t you tell us about Adelaide?” Rachael wrinkled her forehead.
“It wasn’t my story to tell, and you didn’t need to know about her. I hadn’t considered someone might recognize Joseph and question why he was in new Philadelphia.”
“What if the bishop should get wind of this?” Rachael winced.
They should be prepared to suffer the consequences of being shunned in case they were found out. She would support Joseph no matter.
“We’ll speak with the bishop and hope he’ll consider our reasons for helping Adelaide become honorable if this should happen. If he doesn’t, we’ll accept being shunned for whatever time period he and the elders set forth.” Mamm squeezed Rachael’s hand. “Danki for your understanding.”
“I’ll stand by you both on this matter.” Rachael didn’t agree with no communication between family and friends who chose the outside world. Joseph was doing the right thing.
“You’ll have a lot to tell Caleb about our wedding and your move when you’re together again.” Mamm chuckled.
“He’ll be surprised and happy for you.” Rachael grinned. She wondered when he’d propose. She’d marry him tomorrow if she could, but she knew he had responsibilities concerning his bruder. And she had to share something she’d been withholding from him. She wasn’t ready to disclose it, and Caleb helping his bruder gave her a good excuse to hold off on revealing her secret to him. She realized it could ruin everything for them, and it was a risk she wasn’t willing to take. Not yet. She’d savor every minute with him until then.