Beloved Destiny Page 4

  Carina was so distraught that as Papa was finishing his words she burst into tears, fleeing up the stairs to her room. Sobbing, she sat in the window seat looking out at the green fields before her. What did a few acres of land mean? Did the possession of land make a man better, more intelligent, kinder or stronger? What was wrong with a world that believed that possessions and wealth were the most desirable things in a husband? She thought of William, kissing her fingers so gently that afternoon at the Perkins farm. Overcome by sadness and loss she finally lay across the bed, but did not sleep. Sleep might not come for a long time, she thought. This was her first experience of loss, although it would not be the last. It was the most painful event that had occurred in her young life. Her tears dried, but her sorrow remained.

  Things went on as usual on the farm, the long warm days spinning out as they had for hundreds of years in this place. Cotton was planted, huge amounts of it; since the profit was worth any risk that might arise from the practice of monoculture. Planting only one crop increased the chance of ruin if that crop failed. There was another problem with monoculture; the lack of diversity meant that diseases and pests could attack cotton without competition. Carina's father had begun working with the new science of genetics in order to produce more hardy strains of the valuable crop.

  Mr. Blanchett also continued to work to improve his herd of native cattle by feeding them well and using selective breeding techniques. He hoped to eventually improve milk as well as beef production. These cattle had been left to forage in the woods for years because southern planters saw no particular value to the animals. Some of the planters used them to pull wagons and plows, but Mr. Blanchett felt that they were unsuited for these tasks. Cattle proved difficult to break to plow or wagon. He much preferred to use oxen as he had for years as draught animals.

  Carina began to help her mother in the management of the household. Mrs. Blanchett needed to teach her daughter to master the duties which were expected of a matron of a large home. Never did they discuss the subject of William. Carina knew that to do so was futile. Although her sadness did not ease, Carina found that she was less distressed when she stayed busy. So she welcomed her mother's instructions, capably learning all that was expected of her.

  Easton Hall

  n May Mama decided that the family would travel to Natchez to visit the Prewitt family. The household was thrown into an uproar of activity in preparation for an extended stay by the two women of the house. Many trunks were needed to contain the ball gowns, morning dresses, afternoon gowns, dinner gowns as well as all the accoutrements needed to complete these costumes. Papa would go along with the ladies in the carriage with his horse on a lead. He would ride back at the end of the week. Mama and Carina would stay at least a month, possibly longer depending on the activities planned. Carina allowed herself a faint hope that perhaps William might be present at some party and that at least they might get a glimpse of each other. She did not mention this of course, but kept her own counsel.

  The journey to Natchez was pleasant. Carina had not been to the city in some time. She enjoyed riding in the coach, thinking theirs was the grandest conveyance in the county. She loved running her hand over the red leather seats, enjoying the smell of leather warmed by the sun as it came through the open windows. The trees were still a delicate green, although they were already in full leaf. Fields neatly tended by black workers presented a pastoral sight of industry and plenty. As the coach rounded the bend and Easton Hall came into view. Mr. Prewitt's family had lived at Easton Hall for three generations. Carina was struck by the grandeur and elegance of the place. Even though Mr. Prewitt was a business man now, generations of his family had been planters and Easton Hall was a reflection of planter culture. Another of the Greek revival mansions that were prevalent around Natchez, it was a notch above most of the others in beauty. Massive white columns were reminiscent of the ones she had seen in paintings of the Acropolis in Greece. She thought that they were a fitting symbol for the reemergence of western culture here in the South. Surely nowhere were there better educated, more gently bred folk than here in Natchez. The sprawling green lawns dotted with well-tended out-buildings were fitting accompaniments to the mansion that some called the most beautiful in the county, perhaps in the state.

  The town of Natchez was originally founded by the French in the early 18th century. Over the years numerous bloody battles were fought by the French and the indigenous Natchez Indian tribe for control over the region. Even later the colony fell under British, and then Spanish rule. Natchez only became a part of the United States after the American Revolutionary War.

  In 1795, Natchez became the first capital of the new Mississippi Territory. Throughout the first half of the 19th century Natchez was at center of economic activity in the new state. The favorable location that the city enjoyed high on bluffs above the Mississippi River helped to develop it into a seat of commerce. The river port where most of the boats offloaded their wares was called "Natchez-under-the-Hill" to distinguish it from the prosperous and proper city which sat on the bluffs above.

  The coach pulled up into the long drive and arrived at the front entrance where servants were waiting to attend to the visitors. The Blanchett family was shown into the entry, then into a sitting room where Mr. and Mrs. Prewitt awaited them to serve tea. Mr. Prewitt rose from his chair and gave a bow to the ladies, then shook hands amiably with Mr. Blanchett. "We are so delighted that you all are finally able to visit with us. We have missed our dear friends for too long now, and I must say we have many amusing activities planned for your enjoyment. Lettie has accepted invitations from all of the neighboring households for parties and galas to which all of you are invited. I daresay we shall all have a fine time. And you and I, Thomas, have a lot of catching up to do. I want to know everything about your holdings, your work with the cattle and so many things I have been hearing about. Why, it may take us all week just to discuss all of your ventures!" Mr. Prewitt spoke with a booming voice, and ended his greeting with a hearty laugh.

  The families exchanged pleasantries as tea was served. Lettie Prewitt handed Carina her tea-cup and asked how she had enjoyed her last year at finishing school. Most of the young ladies of Natchez attended the same school, which was held in high esteem for teaching the refined skills of needlework, art and music to the daughters of wealthy planters.

  "I enjoyed it very much, Mrs. Prewitt. We were taught some lovely needlework techniques, and I especially enjoyed watercolor class. The translucent colors are so soft that I find them very soothing and peaceful." Carina had been one of the star pupils at the school, frequently held up as an example to those young ladies who slacked a bit, or were not so skillful in the fine arts.

  "I am so glad that you enjoyed painting, my dear. I am afraid that it is an art form in which too few young ladies have any skill or even competence. I myself always enjoy taking up a brush whenever there is free time for such enjoyment."

  Mrs. Prewitt nodded her approval. Carina felt as if she were being appraised by the older woman. She was tall and stately; blessed with an abundance of silver hair pulled back in a bun at the back of her neck. Wisps of hair escaped their bonds wreathing her face and softening her features. She had a ready smile and soft voice. Her eyes were lively, a deep chestnut color and they twinkled when she found something amusing.

  "I haven't yet seen Joshua about. Lemuel, are you keeping the boy's nose to the grindstone?" Mr. Blanchett looked around as if the young man might suddenly appear.

  "Aha! Perhaps I should but he actually does a pretty good job keeping himself in the traces. He and young Porter are looking over some lumber in town. Lettie wants to have a gazebo built and since you all were arriving today, I sent Joshua to take care of it. He is quite clever and useful to me. I must admit I depend on him a great deal now. Since I am busy with the business so often, he takes over some of the upkeep on our properties. Almost all the lands that my family once planted are now farmed by share-croppers and Joshua sees
to all that."

  At the sound of William's name, Carina felt herself go pale. Mama gave her a sharp look and then looked at Lettie. "A gazebo sounds so lovely, Lettie. Your grounds are just beautiful; won't you enjoy sitting outside reading or sipping some lemonade when the weather is fine? When will the workmen begin construction?"

  "As a matter of fact, the men will begin construction day after tomorrow. Joshua and William needed to select the construction supplies today because William will be leaving us tomorrow. He is sailing to England to make preparations for Joshua's Grand Tour. William will travel to London to arrange suitable lodging, as well as begin selecting the cities he deems the most important for Joshua to visit. He will design their itinerary for the best possible use of their resources. Joshua will sail in two months, and they will meet in Dover. We are very glad to be able to send both of them, since we think of William almost as if he were our own son."

  Carina's heart sank. Now there was hardly a chance that she would even catch a glimpse of William while she was visiting. She snuck a look at Mama, whose lips were curled in a little cat-like smile. "Oh, so we won't be seeing Mr. Porter before he leaves?" Mama asked this question casually, as if she had no real interest in the subject.

  "Oh, yes, he will be dining with us this evening. I want to see him off with a nice dinner, and I knew he would want to see you all after the lovely time he had visiting you in January. He talked endlessly about what a pleasant time he had."

  The hours until dinner-time crept by. Carina rested for a few hours while Delia spent the afternoon unpacking her mistress's wardrobe. Later in the day Carina had Delia curl her hair and pin it up on top of her head with a few curls hanging down around her neck. She had instructed Delia to brush her hair one hundred strokes so that the deep red strands shone like silk. She selected a deep violet satin gown with puffed sleeves and a daring neckline which had been made for her in Jackson. Her South Seas pearl necklace sparked the contrast between her hair and gown. Carina was finally ready and opened the door. William was standing in the hall, not five feet from her door. Their eyes met as he rushed to her, taking her hands in his. Emotion washed over her like a flood: love, regret and loss all blended together. They stood like this for several minutes, unable to part. The young people felt as if they were held together by magnetism.

  "I know we are not supposed to meet alone, Carina. Your father made that eloquently clear in the missive he sent me after I left your home. Of course I understand his desire to make the best marriage for you that he can, although my heart was wrenched by his command forbidding me to call on you. To never again call you my beloved Carina would be a fate I cannot imagine.

  "William, I am so sorry. How could I have known that my parents counted the riches of the world as more valuable than integrity and character? No doubt they will choose someone with monetary substance for me, although I don't think I can bear it. When you left and Papa said we could no longer see each other I felt as if a golden door had been slammed shut right in front of me. Kindred souls, that is what I told Mama and Papa we are. But they will not bend from their decision."

  "I will be leaving tomorrow for England, and will be gone a year accompanying Joshua on his Grand Tour. Perhaps in my absence your parents will soften their feelings toward me. I will write to you often and I ask that you send your thoughts to me whenever you can. Surely they won't forbid a few letters?"

  Carina finally slid her hands from his and nodded her head, not trusting herself to speak. She proceeded along the hall, down the grand staircase, making her way to the dining room. The gentlemen rose; bowing as she entered the room. Mama looked up at her approvingly, obviously pleased with her choice of dress.

  "Your mama and I were just discussing your merits Carina, and remarking on what an excellent wife you will be for some young man. Your virtues in the womanly arts, as well as the excellent training your dear mother has given you in regard to running a household will make you invaluable to your husband. And your dear mama said that at this time you have no committed suitor. Since you are going to be here with us for quite a while we will have to introduce you to some of the bachelors, although there is a prime example right here before us. Joshua, perhaps after dinner you might escort Carina into the inner garden. It is a beautiful evening for a stroll." Lettie Prewitt couldn't be accused of subtlety, Carina thought, appalled at the notion that Mrs. Prewitt and Mama were going to try to finagle a match between her and Joshua.

  William was seated next to Joshua across the table. He kept his eyes on his plate most of the time, fearful to meet Carina's eyes lest the whole party see what was in his heart. Joshua yawned and answered "Of course, mother dear, but can't our dear William join us? After all it is the last evening before he sails."

  Mrs. Blanchett's mouth turned down in a look of sour discontent. Lettie fumbled with this excuse and that, finally agreeing that William might join them. Carina knew that was not the intent of either lady.

  Carina and an obviously disinterested Joshua, accompanied by a quiet William, strolled into the garden. It was a truly spectacular evening; with a sky filled so full of stars that it seemed they touched one another. Joshua engaged William in conversation, almost exclusively about their forthcoming trip. He reminded William of all the places he wanted included in his itinerary.

  "William is getting such an opportunity, thanks to my father's generosity. He will see the wonders of the world; a necessity today for any gentleman. The trip will allow him to observe the customs of other cultures should he decide to take up business with international clients. He will also learn foreign languages and be able to converse with other men of the world." Joshua seemed to enjoy explaining to Carina how generous his father was with William, taking a proprietary interest in the advantages which had been bestowed on him. He slipped an arm around William's shoulder.

  Pleading exhaustion, Carina took her leave and retired to her room. Delia was there to help her undress and take down her hair. Seeing that her mistress was tired, Delia brushed her hair again with a boar bristle brush, knowing that always soothed Carina. After a hot cup of chocolate, Carina went to bed. It was a long time before she slept.

  William was gone the next morning before Carina awoke. Joshua accompanied him to the port where William would board a riverboat to begin the first leg of his long journey. Carina walked aimlessly around the house trying to comfort herself with the thought that she and William could at least send each other letters over the next year.

  The next week was such a whirlwind of parties and balls that Carina didn't have time to feel too sad. It took hours each evening to dress for the night's events and mingling with so many young people lifted her spirits. Even Joshua was cordial when he came back from seeing William off. He danced with her a number of times at each ball and even carried his end of the conversation adequately. Mrs. Blanchett and Mrs. Prewitt smiled on the two young people, vying with each to find things for the two of them to enjoy together.

  "You know that our mothers seem determined to throw us together." Joshua smiled wryly, giving the impression that he was not sure how he felt about such a thing. But in the next sentence he seemed to have second thoughts. "Of course, one of these days I will be expected to court someone, definitely a lady of my parents' choosing. My mother mentions this girl and that to gauge my enthusiasm. Lately your name has been mentioned quite often." Carina could not read what opinion he had of his mother's scheme and so she said nothing. "I think it would please my parents if you and I were to see more of each other. Perhaps we could ride out tomorrow morning for a little jaunt in the country."

  Carina looked at him; none too pleased with his matter-of-fact remarks, then decided to give him the benefit of the doubt. Obviously he didn't know how to give pretty compliments or make flowery speeches. Perhaps he was just inept around women.

  "Yes, Joshua, I would like that very much. It will be good to get outside and enjoy an invigorating ride." What harm could it do? Not that she thought anything would e
ver happen between her and Joshua, regardless of their mothers' machinations.

  The next morning they met at the stables. A hand saddled both mounts and gave Carina a lift up into her saddle. They rode for several hours in the meadows surrounding the house, giving the horses a workout and giving themselves a breath of fresh air. They stopped once near a pond to let their horses drink and walked together for a while to stretch their legs. "I am so anxious to join William in Europe; it seems that I can hardly stand the wait. We have not been apart much since we were children and I miss him already. I know of his affection for you since he shares everything with me. However, I counseled him to forget you. He can't fight against your parents' edict. He should find a suitable young woman, sturdy and willing, to accompany him to the frontier. You are much too delicate for that kind of life. Better for you to follow your mother's direction and marry a man of wealth and standing."

  Carina bristled at the thought that William had shared his feelings about her with Joshua. And it infuriated her that Joshua had told his friend to forget her. She knew that wasn't entirely fair, since the truth was that William couldn't do anything about his feelings for her. Still, it stung to hear it said out loud.

  "And what do you think about William and me, Joshua? Don't you think that kindred spirits should be allowed to seek a life together? I would be perfectly content to join him at the frontier if he goes to the military. I would welcome the challenge, proud to stand with him and make a home for him. We could have been so happy together if not for my parents' wishes. I think William is rich in the attributes that truly matter in this world, if not in money."

  Joshua laughed out loud. "Kindred spirits! What do you know about such things? I actually took you for a woman of some intelligence, not a girl with her head in a dreamy cloud of romance. No, you will marry, as I will, someone of your own class and wealth. That is the way the world works and the sooner you understand that the happier you will be."