Chapter Eleven

The school year had almost come to a close and the students were finishing off their final exams and tediously working on completing any undone coursework.

“Well, I will be glad when this paper is finished!” Josey exasperatedly sighed.

“I know, and I still have one more left after this.” Angie replied as she flicked through her notes trying to find that one reference she knew would complete her essay. “Ah, that’s right, it’s written in my other notebook.” She said with a triumphant ah-ha and reached for her satchel that was sitting on the empty chair between the two girls, who had cleverly positioned themselves at the table closest to the library’s large panelled windows. Said vantage point gave them a delightful view overlooking the busy street where the library entrance was located and further afield they could gaze upon the swaying of the trees in the nearby park.

One could say this may not have been the best choice of seating for the two young ladies with looming deadlines, but I don’t think many students would agree, for indeed a bird’s eye view of the study room would show quite an uneven balance in the seating arrangements. With all the window tables and those nearby being taken and only a few tables situated amongst the rows of books being used. At this late time in the year, every little bit of joy that could be mustered was indeed considered extremely valuable!

“Finished!” Angie exclaimed, as she arranged her work neatly into a pile and paused to savour the moment before she began her last piece of work.

Josey looked up at her friend and smiled, “Good job Ange, just one left and NO MORE ASSIGNMENTS!” She whisper-shouted, eyes twinkling with an over-exaggerated expression, and twinkle in her eyes, that caused Angie to work hard at suppressing a giggle.

“I know and it’s amazing to think that we will be graduating in three weeks! And you will be getting married in four!”

“Stop it, I cannot think about it. I must finish this last paper right now! And then I’ll be free to get back to the planning and enjoy it all!” Josey finished with a giddy look on her face.

“Ok, back to work!” Angie instructed. With that the two girls turned their attention back to the task at hand with a more determined focus than ever to finish up in this sitting.

That evening while in her room studying for her last exam Angie heard a small knock at her door and then saw a note appearing under it. She smiled to herself and picked it up.

 

Angela, please collect Gertrude and Josephine and make your way to the rooftop.

 

Chuckling, Angie opened her door and called on the other two girls who had also been studying in their rooms. They knew Evelyn was up to something, inquisitively they climbed out Angie’s window and up the fire escape to the roof. Once up at the top the girls laughed in delight, for Evelyn had a small table set up with sparkling grape juice, some New York hot dogs, and for dessert, sweet pretzels.

“Ta da!” Evelyn motioned to the table. “I thought this would be the perfect time to have a little private celebration before our families arrive and graduation is here.” She continued. “I know we still have an exam or two to do, but we’re as good as graduated now!”

“This is perfect Evelyn.” The girls said unanimously.

“Group hug!” Josey shouted.

“Yum, I was just in need of both a break and a snack!” Angie mumbled with a mouth full of hot dog.

Gertie nodded. “Yea and I love that we get to finish it all out with a VERY special wedding!”

Josey laughed. “When I came back for final year, I would never have expected this is how I would finish it out! God sure does have a way of surprising a girl!” They sat eating, chatting and enjoying the New York skyline.

“And I’m so glad that Professor Green is walking me down the aisle, with living here for four years, he has been the closest to a father that I’ve had in quite some time!”

“How long has it been since your parents passed away Josephine?” Evelyn asked.

“It’s been almost ten years since the accident.”

“That’s a long time Josey.” Angie said, “You were so young, is it ok to ask what happened?”

“Yea, I mean, I don't have any grief or anything like that now. Would have loved them to meet Michael, anyway they will one day!”

“That’s true, I’m glad we have that assurance.” Gertie replied.

“It was a freak weather accident… we didn't have any warning. It was night time, we were all asleep and a storm suddenly appeared. My dad came in and grabbed me out of bed and we rushed to the storm bunker. Mother hadn't made it, so dad left me, and ran out to get her; that was it, I never saw them again.”

“Gosh, that’s dreadful!” Angie shockingly exclaimed.

“Yes, it was horrific but it was a long time ago and I’m grateful that both my parents knew Jesus and are in my future. All is well, my aunt and uncle looked after me and I’ve had a good life; let’s not get sad, it’s our party night!” She smiled. “We’re graduates… well almost!”

Laughing the girls whooped a moment and then sat back, relaxing in their chairs as they finished up their hot dogs and set about munching the large pretzels.

“Evelyn did you get your living arrangements sorted for next year yet?” Josey asked.

“Yes, thankfully, my parents helped me with some things, so I will be all sorted by the time we need to move out of here.” She exhaled with relief. “I love you girls, we must write and visit when we can!”

“Yes, a reunion every so often is a must!” Josey responded.

“Yes, we shall!” Both Gertie and Angie replied. They shook hands to settle it and with a laugh began to pack up and make their way back down the fire escape to continue with their studies.

Later that night, before getting into bed, Angie decided to write a final letter to her friend Susie, who wasn't able to make it out for graduation.

 

Dear Susie

 

Well, it’s the night before my last exam! I can hardly believe that I’m about to Graduate. To be honest, it’s a bit surreal. Can’t wait to get back to Mistysprings and the green hills and bubbling creeks, but at the same time it’s been such a delight to live in New York City. I really am going to miss this place and all the dear friends I’ve made.

Nevertheless, this chapter is coming to an end and the new one up ahead is terribly exciting, and I know it’s going to be challenging but that’s what makes life interesting, don’t you think?

Guess what, I have my gown and cap now. It was such a laugh in class trying them on. I plan to wear a simple white dress under it and I have that special bracelet of my grandmothers that I will wear too. Slightly nervous, for my final results. I have done really well in everything up to date, so shouldn't be any surprises!

Anyway, looking forward to seeing you in person soon! Must get to bed or I may sleep in and miss my exam and that would definitely not be good.

 

Love you my friend,

Angie

-----

 

Brriinnng, brriinnng, the teacher rang the bell signaling the end of the exam. Angie blew out a puff of air and closed her paper. She had thankfully finished and was looking over her questions for the last time to ensure nothing had been missed. Once out of the room, she grabbed her belongings, hugged a few comrades-in-arms, and walked the scenic way home to clear her head. Lost in her thoughts she almost crashed into Ms Potts on the street near the house.

“Just in time, give me a hand with this bag Angie.” She paused for a breath. “I’m not as young as I used to be—not as fit either it would seem!” She let out a chuckle. “You’re finished!” Angie nodded with a smile. “I’ll be sad to see you go but delighted at the same time to see you step into the next chapter. You’ve been a delightful addition to our home and I hope you will keep me updated with your life in Mistysprings!”

Hugging her dear house mother, Angie shed a tear, “Off course I will Ms P. If it wasn't for you making this place home, I don’t know how I would have survived! Please know that you have an open invitation to visit anytime.”

“Thank you, Angela, I believe I will take you up on that offer, now that I’m planning on retiring.” She smiled as they made their way into the house.

The evening passed calmly with a delightful dinner and much talk of the final wedding plans that needed to be addressed. After saying goodnight, Angie made her way upstairs to get to bed; after that taxing morning of the final exam she was becoming rather deflated and in dire need of sleep.

-----

It had been a week now since school had finished and wedding planning mode was in full swing. The four friends were back in town, collecting orders and getting last minute things.

“Would that be all ma’am” The salesgirl asked Josey, “Yes, thank you!” She replied with a smile and paid for the final items from her wedding check list.

“These are lovely centrepieces Josey, they will go so well with the flowers.” Angie commented as she lifted the bags of the shelf.

A friend of Michael’s father owned a luxurious golf club outside of Manhattan and that was where the wedding was to take place. As soon as Graduation was over, and the families had left, the girls were staying on with Josey at Grace house and then, together with Ms Potts, and the rest of the party they would make their way upstate for the wedding.

However, this weekend Michael and Josey who had the use of a relative’s car, were driving up to have a look around the place and leave off all the decorations, including their wedding attire. So there really was no more time for anything.

“I’m glad this weekend is our deadline, for I have a feeling that wedding shopping could go on forever!” Josey stressed, as she sat down on a bench for a rest.

“I’ll second that!” Evelyn replied as she dropped down beside her.

Angie and Gertie sat the bags down beside the two and went to get some snacks from the cart nearby. Coming back, they handed them out, “For energy! We still have to pick up the men’s suits.” Angie said motioning for them all to eat.

“Oh yes that’s true, but at least Professor Green is meeting us there and then we can get home in his carriage!” Evelyn finished up on a note of relief.

“Come on, let’s go, we don’t want to be late!” Gertie got up and stretched out a hand to Josey, which she happily grabbed and received a pull up from her friend.

“Michael is going to look so good in his dark blue suit Jose, and our beautiful peach dresses will be such a compliment to the groomsmen. Good job!” Angie encouraged her friend, who was running on empty. Finishing school and planning for a wedding at the same time was quite a task, but Josey had done well and they would make sure she made it happily over the finish line!

That evening thoughts turned back to Graduation, and the family members who would be making their way to the city for the special event. Gertie's family would be staying in a rather upscale hotel and had requested she join them for a few nights. It worked out well as she offered her room to Angie for her parents to stay in the two nights they had planned to be in the City. Delighted Angie had let them know.

Samuel was having graduation of his own so would not be able to join Angie in New York, but they had enjoyed a long and congratulatory conversation on the phone.

Evelyn’s family had also planned on staying at a hotel when they came into town.

Josey had and aunt and uncle with whom she was close who were coming for both Graduation and the wedding. Michael’s mother had invited them to stay at their house so everyone was well provided for. Everything was all go both at the house, and at the academy with everyone getting ready for Graduation Day.

——

 

The big day had finally arrived, all the final year students were assembled in the canteen, where they put on their gowns and caps and were placed in line according to alphabetical order.

At the minute, they were still role calling the ‘E’s so Angie and her friends were huddled in a group chatting nervously. “Evelyn, are you alright?” Angie asked her friend who had been given the honour of issuing the final address to the students at the close of the ceremony.

“I’ll be glad when its over, but I’m good!” She replied and gave herself a shake.

“Think I’ll re-read it one more time.” She said, and so taking a nearby seat, pulled out her speech and began a final practice.

Suddenly hearing her name, Gertie jumped. “That’s me. See you on the other side!” She confidently marched off to take her place in line.

The ceremony started and the Graduates started to make their way out of the canteen into the auditorium. As Angie walked in to take her seat, she looked around and saw her parents, who had just arrived that morning on the train. Standing up they waved at her and with a smile she nodded in their direction and took her seat. The Dean stepped up to the podium and proceeded to welcome the students, the faculty, the families and friends. He then went on to deliver a timely word of wisdom and encouragement for the young aspiring teachers.

Angie looked at the rows of students in front of her, she could see Gertie, who wouldn't stop fidgeting with a bit of loose hair hanging down under her cap. Angie smiled to herself at the nervous antics of her friend.

There was Michael and Tony both sitting strong and tall. Josey was on the other side, she too was looking intently up at the Dean, drinking in every word. Looking up at the stage, Angie could see Evelyn who due to her outstanding achievements, excellent character and role in the closing of the ceremony was seated up there, thankfully beside Professor Green.

The band began to play, bringing Angie out of her thoughts. In orderly fashion, they made their way to the stage, received their certificate and walked back to their seats. Once the line started to move, it seemed to go by so quick.

Angie managed to smile and mutter a thanks to the Dean as she shook his hand and received her certificate. She could hear a cheer from the crowd and gave a quick glance at her parents, who were standing with happy faces and clapping hands. She smiled and blushed, if truth be told at their exuberance! Watchfully she made her way down the steps at the side of the stage and back to her seat. “Phew,” She thought to herself once seated. “I made it without tripping!”

Looking up she saw the others smiling and waving their rolled-up certificates at her, she stood back up and waved her certificate in the air too, while silently shouting. “We did it!”

The line had finished and it was Evelyn’s turn. The Dean came back to the podium and said some beautiful words about her, emphasising that she had broken all academic records that had been previously set in the school. Everyone gave a hearty round of applause. Then Professor Green came up and attested to the type of young lady Evelyn was and how that those that she would work with, both her peers and overseers should be honoured to have such calibre of person on their team and that indeed the children would be greatly impacted for good with her as their teacher.

Watching Evelyn, Angie saw her wipe a tear away as another hearty applause thundered throughout the auditorium, with the strongest force of noise coming from the other students. Truly this was attestation in itself to the manner of woman she was. It was now her turn to address the body. “Holy Father, help Evelyn remain composed and say everything that you have placed on her heart.” Angie silently prayed, as she looked up at her friend.

Evelyn began with thanking the Dean and the faculty for their dedication to education both in the training of teachers in the necessary subjects and methods but also in encouraging further research and specialist training in cutting edge theories and methods. She also thanked all who worked at the academy, the sometimes-unseen people, but those who helped enable it to function everyday as it should. At this moment, Evelyn looked up and paused. Angie held her breath.

“This wasn't on my notes but I can’t go on without making mention of a very special lady.” The girls all looked round to Ms Potts, who was sitting with all their families. Evelyn directed her gaze at their ‘House Mother’. “This lady has selflessly created a home-away-from-home for young ladies, where she not only makes sure we have a warm bead and food in our stomach, but she also diligently looks out for our spiritual, emotional and general well-being. There’s so much more I and I know many other girls present and past could say, but for now it will suffice with we love you Ms P! Please give a round of applause to our dear Ms Potts.” Evelyn finished her self-made interruption with a grin and began the applause. She looked round at the Professor who smiled in gratitude and directed his gaze back at Ms Potts who was smiling and shedding a tear.

Evelyn continuing with her address began to speak to her fellow graduates encouraging them to holdfast their first passion and dream of making a difference in a child’s life. To uphold the four statues of the Academy, which are more than names on a shield but rather foundations for life: truth, integrity, discipline and vision. She expounded briefly upon each one, stirring in the hearts of her hearers a fresh expectancy for the days ahead and a bold courage to overcome the obstacles and be willing to adapt and change teaching methods when necessary. To build upon the foundation they had received and make it work for them in their classroom, whereby creating a welcoming place of learning for all who would cross its threshold. Angie listened intently to not only her friend but this young lady who was becoming a voice for the next generation of teachers. When she was done, the students joined her in throwing their caps in the air and a fresh eruption of applause and cheers went up with them!

After they had been dismissed the friends met one another in the canteen again—hugs and tears all round! “Well done Evelyn!” Michael shouted as she entered the canteen and the student body once again cheered!

“Stop it!” She laughed as she carved her way through the crowds to her friends. “Whew, we made it!” She declared with a throw of her hands in the air.

“Now the real work begins.” Tony spoke up with a grin.

“Tonnny!” They laughed.

“Come on, our families are waiting out in the garden, let’s go celebrate!” Gertie fist pumped the air—rather awkwardly due to the gown’s wide sleeve, and so the laughter continued as they all mimicked her strange looking fist pump! In high spirits the group made their way out of the canteen and towards the back-garden area.

For their celebratory party Tony and Michael’s families had joined together to provide a range of sumptuous food in one of the restaurants owned by Tony’s uncle. “I’m looking forward to the mix of Italian and Irish food” Angie said as they headed towards the back courtyard. Making their way through the double doors, Evelyn spotted Ms Potts, who came toward the girl with arms outstretched.

“Oh Evelyn, you didn't need to say all that about me, and in your big speech too!”

“I couldn't not Ms P, you’re the best and everyone needs to know it!” She replied with a smile and gave her a big hug. The other girls all gathered round, joining in on the hug.

“Yea Ms Potts, you made it just like home! Thanks!” Angie echoed the sentiments.

Moments later they were hugging their loved ones and chatting noisily. “Angela!” Her parents cried out as they embraced their daughter. “Congratulations daughter, we are both so proud of you and are extremely happy to have you coming home again!”

“I’m so glad to see you both!” She hugged them again and then introduced them to Ms Potts, with whom they quickly bonded and also reiterated Angie’s invitation for her to come visit.

All of a sudden Professor Green and some of his close friends made their way to the group, where in the midst of all the flurry, he commanded attention.

“If I may have thirty minutes more of your time, before we continue the celebrations at our next venue.” Pausing they all looked intently in his direction. At that he delicately took Ms Potts hand and excusing his age and agility said he would rather stand if she didn't mind, went on to ask his dearest friend if she would give him the pleasure of spending the rest of their days together; and if she was agreeable the chaplain was waiting for them in the school chapel.

Ms Potts gasped and so did everyone else. “George, are you sure?” She asked.

“Marie, my dear, undoubtedly so!” Everyone cheered and Ms Potts looked around in shock.

“I am at a loss, truly I have nothing to say! Yes, most certainly I will marry you George!”

The girls looked at one another in surprise, not only by the sudden proposal but because they had never completely known for sure of the pair’s true feelings for one another. They laughed at their own shock, knowing that they would be talking about it later when time permitted.

Following the couple to the chapel they found Chaplain Boyd waiting as the Professor had said. Before they went in, he handed Ms Potts a letter from her son, which contained his words of delight, and blessing. She gasped and shed another tear of joy.

“Everything is now complete!” She whispered.

Smiling the Professor handed her a beautiful bouquet of flowers and made his way to the front of the small chapel. The girls ensured Ms Potts was happy and tear free then took their seats.

The music played and Ms Marie Potts walked down the aisle to meet her best friend.

The Chaplin performed the marriage ceremony ever so beautifully, and in the sight of God and man they were wed!

“Let’s go celebrate!” The Professor shouted over the roar of chatter that followed the ceremony.

“A graduation and a wedding—wouldn't have missed either for the world!” Angie's dad spoke up as he shook the Professors hand. “Congratulations sir,” he said.

“Thank you indeed!” Professor Green replied as they all made their way to the carriages.

“George this has been the perfect end to a great year and a blessed season in my life. Thank you, my love!” Ms Potts whispered to her friend and now, husband.

“Thank you for saying yes and loving me. I wouldn't be who I am today without your friendship and presence in my life!” He replied softly. The tears flowed again but this time she let them run free for it was a new season for all of them, and she was grateful to her Lord for what He had worked out for them this day.

Angie smiled as she watched the pair get into their carriage. “Come on my darling.” Her dad called out of the carriage.

“It’s so good to see you both!” Angela said again through tears as she got in besides them and let out a deep sigh.

Changed she had, for a year is quite a time in one’s life and there’s nothing like living away from home to help a person grow up that bit quicker, but she handled it with grace and made the most of what was presented to her and that was priceless.

“Yes, take a deep breath and relax Angela.” Her Mother encouraged. “You did it, you accomplished great things and now you have time to enjoy a few months of rest before the September term begins in your little schoolhouse!”

At that Angie broke into a grin as she looked at her parents. “I’m the new school mistress at Mistysprings!” She exclaimed, “Woohoo!!!” She yelled with glee.

The carriages pulled to a stop and they all made their way into the garland, decorated restaurant. “Let the celebrations begin!” Tony shouted and everyone roared in agreement! They spent the rest of the day enjoying one another’s company, telling funny stories about their New York adventures and generally having a splendid time.

That evening, having said goodnight to all, and making sure her parents were settled comfortably in Gertie’s room, Angie was sitting at her desk for the last time. She looked around at her room. Her parents were taking most of her belongings home with them so empty boxes, waiting to be filled were stacked in the corner. It was time for change again, she exhaled and got out a sheet of paper for there was one last letter from New York she just had to write.

While getting situated comfortably Angie leaned back and lifted her arms in praise. “It was a great year, one I’ll never forget, thanks Lord.” She said and then put pen to paper to write Samuel an account of the day's activities and surprises. She giggled to herself, remembering the shocked look on Ms Potts face. “I do hope Samuel keeps these letters.” She thought, as she wrote. “Because they are the best journal I’ve ever written!”

With that she finished up the lengthy letter and jumped into bed, to snuggle down for a cosy night’s sleep as an official Graduate and School Mistress. “What a difference a day makes!” She muttered to herself as she drifted off into a deep and peaceful sleep.