North & South : THE MILTON CHRONICLES, VOLUME III
Re: The week that was, part 3 - Emma's decision
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We weren't having a fight. Can we not waste posts on this kind of thing please?
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Re: The week that was, part 3 - Emma's decision
Reply |
That's your best cranky mood? 
Of course I know you guys by now!! That's why I posted that funny icon.
Of course I know you guys by now!! That's why I posted that funny icon.
The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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Last chapter of this volume, people. Enjoy.
The slight frown on Davids face as he read the piece of paper that Emma had just handed him made that young lady nervous. Her writing was not that bad, was it? Suddenly she wondered if accepting his offer to tutor her had been a mistake, for she did not want him to think her stupid as well as impureShe swallowed. She hadnt thought about that since Sunday night, her mind being totally focused on getting the kitchen of Kennedy and Kennedy back to its usual state. But now she realised that while David had been nothing but kind to her, even after her shocking confession, he must regard her as impure for she was, even though she had not chosen to surrender her innocence
A small chuckle came from David at that point, and Emma turned her head to look at him. What? she asked rather suspiciously, and David held up the piece of paper. You led me to believe that you were almost illiterate, he said with some amusement. This is fairly good.
And what does fairly mean? demanded Emma. Better than a six-year-old?
David scanned the page again. Oh, much better I would say you were at the standard of, say, a person of twelve years old.
A flush spread over Emmas pale skin. Twelve, she muttered, lowering her gaze. And Im going on nineteen. He must think Im really stupid now
Twelve is not bad, David told her firmly. Didnt you tell me that you left school at the age of ten? Well, then!
But Im almost nineteen, Emma repeated in frustration. I dont want to be doing writing like someone seven years younger.
David put the paper down and then laid his hand down on the table, right beside hers. Thousands of people have to leave school after only a few years because they must go out to work, you know. Ive seen the writing of many such people, and most of the time it has been sloppy to say the least, although of course that is not their fault. He looked thoughtful. How often would you say you write?
Emma looked startled by the question, and then considered it. Umhardly ever, she admitted. I did lists sometimes when I worked as a housemaid, but when I lived with my pa and then, um, later well, we couldnt afford paper and ink and that sort of thing. And Simon makes the lists of things I need to buy for the mill kitchen.
Well, David went on with a smile, that makes this page even more impressive then, if you have not practised writing for some time. I know some people whose ability to write has faded, even vanished, when they have not used it for a while, but you are still fairly competent.
Fairly again! exclaimed Emma, sounding frustrated. I dont want to be fairly, I want to be good. Ive seen how ladies write, with some letters different from the ones I do and adding little curly bits on the ends of some of them. I want to be able to do that and do it without getting blots everywhere too, indicating the various smudges of ink both on the paper and on the blotting mats that she had put down on the table in anticipation of a little mess.
And you will, David said sincerely. Then he hesitated. I'd like to help you with this, Miss Laurence, but if you feel you'd rather have a proper tutor
No, Emma interrupted. Id like you to do it um, if you dont mind. They looked at each other for a moment, and then David smiled again. This is becoming ridiculous, me repeatedly asking you if youd rather have someone else, and you asking me if Im willing to do it in the first place. How about we stop the questions here? If I get tired of it, or you decide you want a qualified teacher, then we speak up right away. What do you think of that?
Emma returned his smile. Alright, she agreed, and David nodded. Good. Now, how about we have a look at that newspaper there, pointing to the previous days newspaper, which was sitting on the couch, and I can see what your reading is like?
I think my readings better than my writing, but I dont know, Emma said as she fetched the newspaper. Theres so many long words in the newspapers, and I dont know if Im reading them right, and I dont know what many of them mean.
Dont worry about that, Miss Laurence, David said with a chuckle. I dont always understand them either.
Emma stared at him incredulously as she sat down next to him again. You? she asked. David tilted his head as he looked at her. You know, he commented, I sometimes wonder what conclusions youve drawn about me, given that youve been so surprised by various things Ive told you about myself.
Im sorry, its just youre educated, Emma said weakly, and David shrugged. Doesnt mean I know every word in the English vocabulary. But should we come to a word neither of us understands, theres always the dictionary.
Um, we dont have one of them, Emma murmured, blushing again. But David did not seem shocked, only said easily, Well, Ill bring mine from now on. Now, bypassing the long article about the fluctuating economy and selecting one about a new railway line in the south-east of the country, lets start here.
Lessons, they had decided, should last about an hour, and when this first hour was finished, both of them stood up somewhat reluctantly, neither of them wanting to say goodnight. Then Emma blurted out, Would you like a cup of tea? And a bit of cake, maybe?
David was surprised, but smiled the awkwardness that had dominated their acquaintance so far had almost completely gone now. Thank you, I'd like that very much. What kind of cake, may I ask?
You a picky eater? asked Emma teasingly, and David chuckled. Definitely not, and especially not when it comes to cake I have a very sweet tooth.
So do I, Emma admitted. And its lemon sponge. David nodded approvingly as they exited the small dining room. Emma showed him into the lounge, where her cousin, Mr Renton, was reading that days newspaper. He immediately put it down and got to his feet. And how did the lesson go? he inquired jovially.
Very well, I think, Emma said, looking at David, who nodded again. Im getting some tea and cake for Sergeant Johnson, Cousin Hugh," Emma went on. "Would you like some too?
I never say no to your cakes, lass, you know that. As Emma left the room, Mr Renton turned to David, who had taken a seat on the couch. This is so kind of you, Sergeant, he said in a low voice. Giving up your spare time like this and to do it for nothing
Its my pleasure, sir, David answered. I enjoyed teaching when I did it in my younger years, and well, friends help each other.
If you dont mind me saying so, I never realised you and my cousin were friendly, Mr Renton commented, and David went red. We werent, not till yesterday. Perhaps nowwell, Im sure you know, sir, that sometimes people can know each other well almost as soon as they meet, while others need more time.
Quite right, Mr Renton murmured, nodding. Quite right.
*****
Well now, visitors! exclaimed Simon, sitting up on the couch and grinning at Ben and Charlotte Mason, whom Gillian had just escorted into the parlour. His grin faded as he noticed Ben looked serious, and Charlotte a little nervous. Is everything alright? he asked anxiously. Is it to do with the mill?
No, theres nothing wrong, Charlotte assured him. How are you faring?
Oh, my arms healing nicely, Jamieson says, but Im not allowed to leave the house yet and its Friday! To think Ive missed an entire week at the mill! His voice was full of frustration, and his companions sympathised with him. However, he went on grudgingly, I suppose he is correct, Im not quite my old self yet. But, brightening, he says that if my health improves over the weekend, I can go to the mill for a while on Monday. If will power and determination can do it, then I will be there.
Im sure you can do anything you set your mind to, Kennedy, Ben remarked with a small smile. He then glanced between Simon and Gillian. Where is your father?
Oh, he went to speak to Mrs Landon about meals for the rest of the week, Gillian replied. Why?
Charlotte cleared her throat. Well, I have a proposal for you, Simon, and I wanted to tell you about it first, because, while I like your father very much, I know that Englishmen are more set in their ways than Americans, and the older ones more so. Im not tarring you all with the same brush, she added hastily, I just felt I might be better to put it to you first, as my proposal is rather unusual.
Simons curiosity was roused now. Oh? he asked. Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was gazing at the gas lamp near the armchair as if it was the most interesting thing in the world, and uncertainty appeared on her face. No, never mind, she murmured. Ben turned and looked at her in surprise. Then he understood, and touched her shoulder, saying with an encouraging smile, Go on. Charlotte visibly relaxed, and then turned back to Simon. Well, when I visited you on Monday, you mentioned how frustrated you were about not being able to get to the mill, as you did not like to leave all the work to your father, as you know more than him about the business is that correct?
Simon nodded. Yes. Father is wonderful with accounts and letters, but I believe that I have more knowledge about the practical side of the mill than he does, not only the machinery and the workers, but the trade itself, arranging orders, making deals, that sort of thing. He looked at her with even more curiosity. Why do you ask?
Well, I wonderedshould you find yourself in need of some assistance, I would be willing to help you. You see, while my own experience is in raw cotton rather than the running of a mill, I know quite a lot about the industry, and I organised many of my fathers business matters. Obviously, I do not know anything like as much as you do
Please let me stop you there, interrupted Simon, and as Charlottes face fell, he hastily went on, No, I am not saying I do not greatly appreciate your offer, nor that I would not wish you to work for me. But Im not sure that we are talking of the same sort of work. Im not looking for someone to do business on my behalf.
Oh, no, that is not what I am suggesting, Charlotte said earnestly. I only meant that I could perhaps assist you in the office, help you with paperwork and so on, for I know from John that there is always a lot of it to do. And also, if you wish it, I could help you to arrange orders not make the decisions for you, I would never dream of doing that, but make the correspondence, something like that. She gave a weak smile. Im rambling, arent I.
I think, Ben spoke up, what my wife is trying to say is that she would take on a secretarial role, and as she has knowledge of your business, that might be to your advantage, because, should you need it, she could help you in organising your deals and whatever else necessary. But of course she will not try to push you into anything, especially while you are still recovering from an accident.
Oh, I think it is a splendid idea! exclaimed Gillian warmly. And you are so kind to offer, Charlotte do you not agree, Simon?
It is a very kind offer," Simon said, "and one which would certainly be to the mills advantage. But are you sure that you wish to take on such employment?
Again Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was now eyeing the cigar case on the small table by the armchair. When she did not speak, he returned his gaze to her, and then looked at Simon before saying firmly, Shes sure, Kennedy.
Are you? Charlotte asked, and he took her hand and squeezed it. Yes, love. I am.
Well, that is settled then, Simon declared with another grin. Charlotte, welcome to Kennedy and Kennedy oh, Father, as Lewis entered the room, meet our latest employee.
Lewis looked from his daughter to the Masons, and then turned a bemused gaze on his son. What are you talking about, Simon? His son explained about Charlottes offer, and Lewis looked startled. Are you quite certain about this, Mrs Mason?
My wife misses working in the cotton business, Mr Kennedy, Ben informed him. I believe that she would take on the tiniest, least important job you had to offer if it meant she could be involved in it once more. Is that not so, my dear?
Charlotte gave him a grateful look as she nodded, and Lewis smiled. Well, so be it, then. Im looking forward to working with you, Mrs Mason. Now, would you care for a drink?
Oh no, thank you, Mr Kennedy, Ben said politely. We must get home for dinner. And so, after Charlotte had promised to be at the mill for nine oclock the following morning, the Masons bid goodnight to their hosts and left the house. Ordinarily they would have walked home, but as it was raining quite heavily, Ben ran ahead to hail the cab he saw further along the end of the street. He gave the driver his address while his wife got inside. He then climbed in himself, and as he closed the door behind him and sat down, Charlotte said quietly, Thank you, Ben.
Her husband gave her another surprised look. For what? You are your own woman you do not need my permission to do anything.
Charlottes eyebrows shot up. My, she remarked. That is an interesting attitude. I dont know many men who would feel that way. Then she became serious once more. But I would never do anything of which you did not approve, Ben. That is why I hesitated before putting my proposal to Simon, because you looked so serious. I thought you had changed your mind again. No, as he began to protest, I know that you werent real keen when I first put the idea to you, even though you said you had no objections.
Ben winced. Im sorry, love. He took her hand again. Do you remember, at the Remingtons wedding, when I still believed that you and I could not marry, you accused me of being a victim of manly pride? The blush that appeared on Charlottes face told him that she did. Well, he continued, much as it pains me to say it, that was the case when you first suggested that you offer your assistance to the Kennedys. I suppose I wanted to be the sole breadwinner, to support my wife so that she need not work. He looked at her, his expression repentant. If I looked serious just now, it was because I was ashamed of myself. You told me when we first met that you did not like sitting in your house all day, and how much you enjoyed helping your father with his work this, of course, I then saw for myself during our time in Savannah. And you said only last week that you missed your old life, which included your involvement in the plantation. He took her hand and raised it to his lips. That work made you happy. And if working at Kennedy and Kennedy will make you happy too, then Im all in favour of it.
Charlotte kissed his cheek and leaned against him, smiling broadly. They remained silent for the rest of the short journey, and when they arrived at their house, Ben jumped out of the cab, lifted her down and paid the driver. Youre the only man I know who would let me do this, Charlotte told him as they made their way up the front path. All the fellas back home made it clear theyd never let their wife work.
And that's why you chose me above all of them, is it? Ben asked lightly, turning to face her. In the moonlight, he could see her eyes twinkling. Of course, she answered, as though it were obvious. What other reason could there be? There was a pause as they looked at each other, and then they both burst out laughing as they made their way into their home.
And so, as John Thornton had told his wife, it had been quite a week in Milton, but for more people than he had realised
*****
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
The slight frown on Davids face as he read the piece of paper that Emma had just handed him made that young lady nervous. Her writing was not that bad, was it? Suddenly she wondered if accepting his offer to tutor her had been a mistake, for she did not want him to think her stupid as well as impureShe swallowed. She hadnt thought about that since Sunday night, her mind being totally focused on getting the kitchen of Kennedy and Kennedy back to its usual state. But now she realised that while David had been nothing but kind to her, even after her shocking confession, he must regard her as impure for she was, even though she had not chosen to surrender her innocence
A small chuckle came from David at that point, and Emma turned her head to look at him. What? she asked rather suspiciously, and David held up the piece of paper. You led me to believe that you were almost illiterate, he said with some amusement. This is fairly good.
And what does fairly mean? demanded Emma. Better than a six-year-old?
David scanned the page again. Oh, much better I would say you were at the standard of, say, a person of twelve years old.
A flush spread over Emmas pale skin. Twelve, she muttered, lowering her gaze. And Im going on nineteen. He must think Im really stupid now
Twelve is not bad, David told her firmly. Didnt you tell me that you left school at the age of ten? Well, then!
But Im almost nineteen, Emma repeated in frustration. I dont want to be doing writing like someone seven years younger.
David put the paper down and then laid his hand down on the table, right beside hers. Thousands of people have to leave school after only a few years because they must go out to work, you know. Ive seen the writing of many such people, and most of the time it has been sloppy to say the least, although of course that is not their fault. He looked thoughtful. How often would you say you write?
Emma looked startled by the question, and then considered it. Umhardly ever, she admitted. I did lists sometimes when I worked as a housemaid, but when I lived with my pa and then, um, later well, we couldnt afford paper and ink and that sort of thing. And Simon makes the lists of things I need to buy for the mill kitchen.
Well, David went on with a smile, that makes this page even more impressive then, if you have not practised writing for some time. I know some people whose ability to write has faded, even vanished, when they have not used it for a while, but you are still fairly competent.
Fairly again! exclaimed Emma, sounding frustrated. I dont want to be fairly, I want to be good. Ive seen how ladies write, with some letters different from the ones I do and adding little curly bits on the ends of some of them. I want to be able to do that and do it without getting blots everywhere too, indicating the various smudges of ink both on the paper and on the blotting mats that she had put down on the table in anticipation of a little mess.
And you will, David said sincerely. Then he hesitated. I'd like to help you with this, Miss Laurence, but if you feel you'd rather have a proper tutor
No, Emma interrupted. Id like you to do it um, if you dont mind. They looked at each other for a moment, and then David smiled again. This is becoming ridiculous, me repeatedly asking you if youd rather have someone else, and you asking me if Im willing to do it in the first place. How about we stop the questions here? If I get tired of it, or you decide you want a qualified teacher, then we speak up right away. What do you think of that?
Emma returned his smile. Alright, she agreed, and David nodded. Good. Now, how about we have a look at that newspaper there, pointing to the previous days newspaper, which was sitting on the couch, and I can see what your reading is like?
I think my readings better than my writing, but I dont know, Emma said as she fetched the newspaper. Theres so many long words in the newspapers, and I dont know if Im reading them right, and I dont know what many of them mean.
Dont worry about that, Miss Laurence, David said with a chuckle. I dont always understand them either.
Emma stared at him incredulously as she sat down next to him again. You? she asked. David tilted his head as he looked at her. You know, he commented, I sometimes wonder what conclusions youve drawn about me, given that youve been so surprised by various things Ive told you about myself.
Im sorry, its just youre educated, Emma said weakly, and David shrugged. Doesnt mean I know every word in the English vocabulary. But should we come to a word neither of us understands, theres always the dictionary.
Um, we dont have one of them, Emma murmured, blushing again. But David did not seem shocked, only said easily, Well, Ill bring mine from now on. Now, bypassing the long article about the fluctuating economy and selecting one about a new railway line in the south-east of the country, lets start here.
Lessons, they had decided, should last about an hour, and when this first hour was finished, both of them stood up somewhat reluctantly, neither of them wanting to say goodnight. Then Emma blurted out, Would you like a cup of tea? And a bit of cake, maybe?
David was surprised, but smiled the awkwardness that had dominated their acquaintance so far had almost completely gone now. Thank you, I'd like that very much. What kind of cake, may I ask?
You a picky eater? asked Emma teasingly, and David chuckled. Definitely not, and especially not when it comes to cake I have a very sweet tooth.
So do I, Emma admitted. And its lemon sponge. David nodded approvingly as they exited the small dining room. Emma showed him into the lounge, where her cousin, Mr Renton, was reading that days newspaper. He immediately put it down and got to his feet. And how did the lesson go? he inquired jovially.
Very well, I think, Emma said, looking at David, who nodded again. Im getting some tea and cake for Sergeant Johnson, Cousin Hugh," Emma went on. "Would you like some too?
I never say no to your cakes, lass, you know that. As Emma left the room, Mr Renton turned to David, who had taken a seat on the couch. This is so kind of you, Sergeant, he said in a low voice. Giving up your spare time like this and to do it for nothing
Its my pleasure, sir, David answered. I enjoyed teaching when I did it in my younger years, and well, friends help each other.
If you dont mind me saying so, I never realised you and my cousin were friendly, Mr Renton commented, and David went red. We werent, not till yesterday. Perhaps nowwell, Im sure you know, sir, that sometimes people can know each other well almost as soon as they meet, while others need more time.
Quite right, Mr Renton murmured, nodding. Quite right.
*****
Well now, visitors! exclaimed Simon, sitting up on the couch and grinning at Ben and Charlotte Mason, whom Gillian had just escorted into the parlour. His grin faded as he noticed Ben looked serious, and Charlotte a little nervous. Is everything alright? he asked anxiously. Is it to do with the mill?
No, theres nothing wrong, Charlotte assured him. How are you faring?
Oh, my arms healing nicely, Jamieson says, but Im not allowed to leave the house yet and its Friday! To think Ive missed an entire week at the mill! His voice was full of frustration, and his companions sympathised with him. However, he went on grudgingly, I suppose he is correct, Im not quite my old self yet. But, brightening, he says that if my health improves over the weekend, I can go to the mill for a while on Monday. If will power and determination can do it, then I will be there.
Im sure you can do anything you set your mind to, Kennedy, Ben remarked with a small smile. He then glanced between Simon and Gillian. Where is your father?
Oh, he went to speak to Mrs Landon about meals for the rest of the week, Gillian replied. Why?
Charlotte cleared her throat. Well, I have a proposal for you, Simon, and I wanted to tell you about it first, because, while I like your father very much, I know that Englishmen are more set in their ways than Americans, and the older ones more so. Im not tarring you all with the same brush, she added hastily, I just felt I might be better to put it to you first, as my proposal is rather unusual.
Simons curiosity was roused now. Oh? he asked. Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was gazing at the gas lamp near the armchair as if it was the most interesting thing in the world, and uncertainty appeared on her face. No, never mind, she murmured. Ben turned and looked at her in surprise. Then he understood, and touched her shoulder, saying with an encouraging smile, Go on. Charlotte visibly relaxed, and then turned back to Simon. Well, when I visited you on Monday, you mentioned how frustrated you were about not being able to get to the mill, as you did not like to leave all the work to your father, as you know more than him about the business is that correct?
Simon nodded. Yes. Father is wonderful with accounts and letters, but I believe that I have more knowledge about the practical side of the mill than he does, not only the machinery and the workers, but the trade itself, arranging orders, making deals, that sort of thing. He looked at her with even more curiosity. Why do you ask?
Well, I wonderedshould you find yourself in need of some assistance, I would be willing to help you. You see, while my own experience is in raw cotton rather than the running of a mill, I know quite a lot about the industry, and I organised many of my fathers business matters. Obviously, I do not know anything like as much as you do
Please let me stop you there, interrupted Simon, and as Charlottes face fell, he hastily went on, No, I am not saying I do not greatly appreciate your offer, nor that I would not wish you to work for me. But Im not sure that we are talking of the same sort of work. Im not looking for someone to do business on my behalf.
Oh, no, that is not what I am suggesting, Charlotte said earnestly. I only meant that I could perhaps assist you in the office, help you with paperwork and so on, for I know from John that there is always a lot of it to do. And also, if you wish it, I could help you to arrange orders not make the decisions for you, I would never dream of doing that, but make the correspondence, something like that. She gave a weak smile. Im rambling, arent I.
I think, Ben spoke up, what my wife is trying to say is that she would take on a secretarial role, and as she has knowledge of your business, that might be to your advantage, because, should you need it, she could help you in organising your deals and whatever else necessary. But of course she will not try to push you into anything, especially while you are still recovering from an accident.
Oh, I think it is a splendid idea! exclaimed Gillian warmly. And you are so kind to offer, Charlotte do you not agree, Simon?
It is a very kind offer," Simon said, "and one which would certainly be to the mills advantage. But are you sure that you wish to take on such employment?
Again Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was now eyeing the cigar case on the small table by the armchair. When she did not speak, he returned his gaze to her, and then looked at Simon before saying firmly, Shes sure, Kennedy.
Are you? Charlotte asked, and he took her hand and squeezed it. Yes, love. I am.
Well, that is settled then, Simon declared with another grin. Charlotte, welcome to Kennedy and Kennedy oh, Father, as Lewis entered the room, meet our latest employee.
Lewis looked from his daughter to the Masons, and then turned a bemused gaze on his son. What are you talking about, Simon? His son explained about Charlottes offer, and Lewis looked startled. Are you quite certain about this, Mrs Mason?
My wife misses working in the cotton business, Mr Kennedy, Ben informed him. I believe that she would take on the tiniest, least important job you had to offer if it meant she could be involved in it once more. Is that not so, my dear?
Charlotte gave him a grateful look as she nodded, and Lewis smiled. Well, so be it, then. Im looking forward to working with you, Mrs Mason. Now, would you care for a drink?
Oh no, thank you, Mr Kennedy, Ben said politely. We must get home for dinner. And so, after Charlotte had promised to be at the mill for nine oclock the following morning, the Masons bid goodnight to their hosts and left the house. Ordinarily they would have walked home, but as it was raining quite heavily, Ben ran ahead to hail the cab he saw further along the end of the street. He gave the driver his address while his wife got inside. He then climbed in himself, and as he closed the door behind him and sat down, Charlotte said quietly, Thank you, Ben.
Her husband gave her another surprised look. For what? You are your own woman you do not need my permission to do anything.
Charlottes eyebrows shot up. My, she remarked. That is an interesting attitude. I dont know many men who would feel that way. Then she became serious once more. But I would never do anything of which you did not approve, Ben. That is why I hesitated before putting my proposal to Simon, because you looked so serious. I thought you had changed your mind again. No, as he began to protest, I know that you werent real keen when I first put the idea to you, even though you said you had no objections.
Ben winced. Im sorry, love. He took her hand again. Do you remember, at the Remingtons wedding, when I still believed that you and I could not marry, you accused me of being a victim of manly pride? The blush that appeared on Charlottes face told him that she did. Well, he continued, much as it pains me to say it, that was the case when you first suggested that you offer your assistance to the Kennedys. I suppose I wanted to be the sole breadwinner, to support my wife so that she need not work. He looked at her, his expression repentant. If I looked serious just now, it was because I was ashamed of myself. You told me when we first met that you did not like sitting in your house all day, and how much you enjoyed helping your father with his work this, of course, I then saw for myself during our time in Savannah. And you said only last week that you missed your old life, which included your involvement in the plantation. He took her hand and raised it to his lips. That work made you happy. And if working at Kennedy and Kennedy will make you happy too, then Im all in favour of it.
Charlotte kissed his cheek and leaned against him, smiling broadly. They remained silent for the rest of the short journey, and when they arrived at their house, Ben jumped out of the cab, lifted her down and paid the driver. Youre the only man I know who would let me do this, Charlotte told him as they made their way up the front path. All the fellas back home made it clear theyd never let their wife work.
And that's why you chose me above all of them, is it? Ben asked lightly, turning to face her. In the moonlight, he could see her eyes twinkling. Of course, she answered, as though it were obvious. What other reason could there be? There was a pause as they looked at each other, and then they both burst out laughing as they made their way into their home.
And so, as John Thornton had told his wife, it had been quite a week in Milton, but for more people than he had realised
*****
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
Reply |
Yay their first tutorial! 
And now Ive been studying up on the Yorkshire accent, I can imagine how David sounds!
Poor Emma she really doesnt like the word fairly, does she?
Even though I write articles concerning the fluctuating economy, I still dont really understand everything. I cant imagine how somebody without the prior knowledge or experience reading it would be able to understand it.
Whats up with Ben in these scenes? My thought was that maybe Charlotte was hesitant because married women usually dont do such things. And as I keep reading, I see thats basically right
Fantastic chapter, Cat!
What do you mean find yourself a man? I've got Thornton, Darcy, Knightley, Wentworth
And now Ive been studying up on the Yorkshire accent, I can imagine how David sounds!
And what does fairly mean? demanded Emma. Better than a six-year-old?
Fairly again! exclaimed Emma, sounding frustrated. I dont want to be fairly, I want to be good.
Poor Emma she really doesnt like the word fairly, does she? Thats a very good decision
bypassing the long article about the fluctuating economy and selecting one about a new railway line in the south-east of the country
Even though I write articles concerning the fluctuating economy, I still dont really understand everything. I cant imagine how somebody without the prior knowledge or experience reading it would be able to understand it. Good Emma! Spend time socializing with him and help this little romance along
both of them stood up somewhat reluctantly, neither of them wanting to say goodnight. Then Emma blurted out, Would you like a cup of tea? And a bit of cake, maybe?
Theres something so adorable about a blushing man
If you dont mind me saying so, I never realised you and my cousin were friendly, Mr Renton commented, and David went red.
Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was gazing at the gas lamp near the armchair as if it was the most interesting thing in the world, and uncertainty appeared on her face. No, never mind, she murmured. Ben turned and looked at her in surprise. Then he understood, and touched her shoulder, saying with an encouraging smile, Go on.
Hmmm.
Charlotte glanced at Ben, who was gazing at the gas lamp near the armchair as if it was the most interesting thing in the world, and uncertainty appeared on her face. No, never mind, she murmured. Ben turned and looked at her in surprise. Then he understood, and touched her shoulder, saying with an encouraging smile, Go on.
Whats up with Ben in these scenes? My thought was that maybe Charlotte was hesitant because married women usually dont do such things. And as I keep reading, I see thats basically right This settles it Ben is perfect.
Her husband gave her another surprised look. For what? You are your own woman you do not need my permission to do anything.
Its so nice to see them all happy and in love
And that's why you chose me above all of them, is it? Ben asked lightly, turning to face her. In the moonlight, he could see her eyes twinkling. Of course, she answered, as though it were obvious. What other reason could there be? There was a pause as they looked at each other, and then they both burst out laughing as they made their way into their home.
Fantastic chapter, Cat!
What do you mean find yourself a man? I've got Thornton, Darcy, Knightley, Wentworth
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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And now Ive been studying up on the Yorkshire accent, I can imagine how David sounds!
Don't think of him totally as a "Last of the Summer Wine" guy, Ima! I wrote recently he's not got an INCREDIBLY broad Yorkshire accent - his mum wasn't from that area so he doesn't go round saying, "Eh up" etc!
Poor Emma she really doesnt like the word fairly, does she?
She's an ambitious girl - once she sets her mind on doing something, she wants to do it WELL. Great attitude.
Thats a very good decision [
My main idea was it would be a really boring topic!
Theres something so adorable about a blushing man
So true. Maybe David's been getting lessons from his senior officer.
Whats up with Ben in these scenes? My thought was that maybe Charlotte was hesitant because married women usually dont do such things. And as I keep reading, I see thats basically right
Yup - how many women of her station would work? They're not rich, but they don't need the money like, say, the mill workers do. I came up with this idea because I really can't see Charlotte staying at home all the time. I know they've been married for, what, 4 months now, & apart from that bout of homesickness I'm sure she's happy (hey, we would be, wouldn't we, Ima?
), but she's not made to be a sit-at-home wife. Female secretaries were still a rarity, I believe, but the Kennedys won't care.
Ben is perfect.
I wouldn't go THAT far, but he's pretty damn close!
Its so nice to see them all happy and in love
Sure is.
I was thinking recently I don't write that many scenes of couples on their own once they're married & settled, but you know, there's so many other stories to be told! What can you do? 
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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Don't think of him totally as a "Last of the Summer Wine" guy, Ima! I wrote recently he's not got an INCREDIBLY broad Yorkshire accent - his mum wasn't from that area so he doesn't go round saying, "Eh up" etc
You mean he doesn't talk like Sean Bean?
That was wonderful Cat. I loved the tutorial and the scenes with Ben and Charlotte. What a good husband he is.
Dogs have owners, Cats have staff!
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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You mean he doesn't talk like Sean Bean?
Well I don't know Sean Bean apart from his brief appearance in "Vicar of Dibley", Laura, but David's certainly Yorkshire, just not with the broadest accent. I loved listening to Yorkshiremen talk in the bar when I was down there last month - they could say just about anything & it would sound warm & friendly. Even if it was talking about Euro 2012 & one chap said, "I hope the Spanish kick their a***s."
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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His accent was quite broad in "Sharpe" but he does a lot of voiceovers and it is much smoother and not so pronounced, probably more like what David sounds like.
Dogs have owners, Cats have staff!
Dogs have owners, Cats have staff!
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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That sounds about right. Okay, we'll roll with that.
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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Re: The week that was, part 4 new jobs
In the midst of this one, Cat, and enjoying it immensely. Love how David and Emma remain platonic friends
( I'm afraid to say more)
It was very sweet of David to encourage her with her writing and confess that he doesnt understand every word in the newspaper either, the dictionary being his secret tool. Good advice!
Tea and cake are being served! Could this be considered their first date? (Never mind)
I like Mr. Renton! What a sweetheart he is!
I like it!
What a great idea to have Charlotte helping/ working for the Kennedys . Shell be a natural!
That was a very honest and sweet moment between Ben and Charlotte. He is one in a million a man before his time!
A wonderful ending to a wonderful week! Thanks, Cat!
In the midst of this one, Cat, and enjoying it immensely. Love how David and Emma remain platonic friends
(
I'm afraid to say more)It was very sweet of David to encourage her with her writing and confess that he doesnt understand every word in the newspaper either, the dictionary being his secret tool. Good advice!
Tea and cake are being served! Could this be considered their first date? (Never mind
)I like Mr. Renton! What a sweetheart he is!
This sounds so British!
Quite right, Mr Renton murmured, nodding. Quite right.
I like it!What a great idea to have Charlotte helping/ working for the Kennedys . Shell be a natural!
That was a very honest and sweet moment between Ben and Charlotte. He is one in a million a man before his time!
A wonderful ending to a wonderful week! Thanks, Cat!
Re: The week that was, part 4 - new jobs
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I like Mr. Renton! What a sweetheart he is!
He is the loveliest man. He's taken Emma in & given her the family home that she's never had. He was quite lonely himself so the relationship is fab for both of them.
He is one in a million a man before his time!
Revolutionary?
I don't know if Ben would agree with you, Pat - the idea would probably scare him! But he knows the work will make his wife happy & that's all he wants, bless him. 
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
END OF VOLUME III
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Well, that's all, folks. Hope you enjoyed. For any new readers, please feel free to post comments when you read any of these chapters, I absolutely LOVE feedback - I feed off it, you might say. See you all on Volume IV! 
Cat x
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
Cat x
What Glasgow says today, the rest of the world tries to pronounce tomorrow
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Re: The week that was, part 3 - Emma's decision
Alfa, don't you know us by now??
Seriously, this heat is getting to me!