Daughter of the Loom (Bells of Lowell Book #1) (41 page)

The men nodded in agreement, all of them having seen the detailed reports Kirk had submitted to the Associates as their projects in Lowell progressed.

“For that very reason, I found William’s allegation against Johnny disquieting. After he left, Matthew Cheever and I thoroughly dissected the so-called evidence produced by William. It is all a lie. Had Johnny been located where William purports, it would have been impossible to shoot my right leg.”

William jumped to his feet. “Perhaps I misunderstood the exact location, but you can’t deny the piece of fabric from O’Malley’s coat.”

Kirk’s resolve was obvious as he pointed his cane toward William. “O’Malley tells me that coat came up missing several days before the shooting, and—”

“And you believe that?” William yelled. “Surely you men can see what I’ve been saying all along. He’s not fit to run this operation.”

“Sit down, William,” Tracy ordered from between clenched teeth. “You’ll have an opportunity to speak when Kirk has finished. Continue, Kirk,” Tracy said.

Kirk nodded. “As I was saying, the piece of cloth was found in the clump of trees where William alleges the shooter was located. If he’s now changing his mind about where the assassin was hiding, the piece of fabric is of no consequence, is it, William?”

William’s face had turned bright red. “Possibly not, but that doesn’t nullify the information regarding the incident at the Appleton. I told you I have men who will testify that O’Malley’s responsible for the death of Simeon Jones.”

“And I have evidence that Johnny O’Malley wasn’t even in town on the date of the accident,” Kirk rebutted. “Evidence that wasn’t bought and paid for.”

“What are you saying? That I concocted this whole thing? That’s absurd and you know it, Kirk. You put your evidence before these men, and I’ll do the same. We’ll see what’s been bought and paid for,” William challenged.

“Gentlemen, gentlemen,” Tracy called out, “let’s call a halt to this inappropriate behavior right now. We’re all gathered here to resolve this matter. Let’s do it in a civilized manner. William, you may present whatever evidence you have to prove your allegations that Kirk is unfit to continue as manager for the Corporation. Kirk, you may then defend your position.”

The group recessed while the two men sent for various witnesses to substantiate their allegations. It was growing late when Tracy finally called for a vote. “What say you, gentlemen? Let me have a show of hands. All those in favor of retaining Mr. Boott as manager of the Corporation? Those opposed?” Tracy nodded. “It appears you’re the only member opposed to Kirk’s retention, William.”

The group sat in stunned silence as William pointed his finger at the group. “You’ve not heard the last of this. You’ve made a grievous error.”

Chapter 30

Lilly watched as Miss Addie glanced across the street toward her sister’s boardinghouse. She wondered if the two sisters would ever resolve their differences. The waterwheel incident at the Appleton was still fresh when Mintie’s sharp tongue had lashed out against John Farnsworth. Unwilling to abide Mintie’s harsh attitude any longer, John had rebuked her for a lack of civility. Offended by his reproach, Mintie had unleashed her wrath upon him before finally accusing him of being a traitor. John had immediately packed his trunk and taken up residence at the Wareham House.

Had it not been for Lilly’s intervention, Matthew, now in charge of the boardinghouse keepers, would have immediately fired Miss Mintie as the keeper at number 7 Jackson Street. And had it not been for Miss Addie, Lilly would have bid Miss Mintie a fond farewell. But Addie’s despair over the situation had been heartwrenching. “It’s her upbringing that makes her act in such a manner,” she’d argued on her sister’s behalf. “If she loses her position, she’s likely to end up in a poorhouse, what with the Corporation unwilling to give her a reference,” Addie had wept. “I can’t bear to see her brought to ruin.”

When Lilly could listen to no more, she had gone and spoken to John, telling him of Addie’s anguish. John, in turn, had spoken to Matthew. And Matthew had told Mintie that had it not been for the kindness of John Farnsworth, she would have been sent packing.

In the weeks that followed, very little was seen of Miss Mintie. She remained tucked away in her house, caring for her boarders but doing little else. It appeared, however, that she hadn’t entirely given up her snooping. On occasion, she could still be seen peeking out from behind the heavy draperies at the front window.

“You’ve been very quiet of late, Miss Addie. What’s wrong?” Lilly questioned as she walked alongside the older woman while they headed toward town.

“I’ve been worried about Mintie. She’s not socializing at all. I hear she hasn’t attended her temperance meetings, and she hasn’t been at the sewing bees at the church. In fact, she appears to be sending Lucy to do most of her shopping nowadays. I fear she’s becoming a recluse. I’m hoping that once spring arrives, she’ll venture out a bit.”

Lilly patted Miss Addie’s hand. “I fear it may take more than a bit of warm weather to thaw Miss Mintie’s heart.”

“Most likely, you’re correct. She’s a proud woman, but deep down, she’s a good person, Lilly. I know that may be difficult for others to believe, but it’s her spirit that’s wounded. She feels unloved and unlovable.”

Lilly listened, her mind churning for some way she might encourage her friend. “I’ll try to come up with an idea to get her out of the house,” she promised, wondering how she could possibly make a chink in Miss Mintie’s armor.

“I believed the letter I wrote explaining John’s loyalty to this country, as well as the Corporation, would soften her. I even invited her to tea, but she didn’t respond,” Addie lamented.

“I must admit—I had my own concerns about Mr. Farnsworth at one time,” Lilly sheepishly admitted.

Addie gave her an astonished look. “Really? What made
you
question John?”

Lilly smiled. “One night when Matthew’s father was escorting me home, I saw John and several men huddled together in a seemingly clandestine meeting; they appeared to be arguing. When Mr. Cheever and I came into view, they rushed off. After listening to Miss Mintie’s accusations that Mr. Farnsworth was an English spy, I wondered if she was correct.”

Addie shifted her shopping basket to her left arm and smiled. “And what changed your mind?”

“Some time later, when Matthew and I were together, he mentioned Farnsworth and his loyalty to the Associates. I mentioned the meeting and my concerns. He laughed, telling me it was quite the opposite.”

Addie leaned in a bit closer, obviously intent on not missing a word.

“He explained that Mr. Farnsworth was unjustly fired from his position in England because the mill owners thought he had been bribed to help Mr. Lowell sneak plans for the looms out of England.”

“Did Matthew tell you that John escorted Mr. Lowell through the English mills? It was because of those tours that they accused him of commiserating with Mr. Lowell.”

“Their treatment of Mr. Farnsworth was reprehensible!” Lilly declared. “Matthew said that Mr. Farnsworth was so angered by his employer’s shoddy behavior that he decided he would come to the United States and help make the mills in New England better than those in the old country. Before he left, he formed an alliance with several of his friends who were being treated poorly. Mr. Farnsworth agreed to pay their passage if, upon their arrival, they brought him additional information concerning the machinery and operation of the mills where they worked in England. They arranged their meetings prior to the men being employed by the Corporation so no one would know of their association with Mr. Farnsworth.”

Addie nodded. “That’s what John explained to me, also. John feared there might be retribution against the men’s families if any word leaked out they knew him. He didn’t want the men who were assisting him to face accusations of being spies. So instead of working against American industrialization, John and all of those men were
aiding
the industrialization in New England. I clearly explained those facts to Mintie when I wrote her, but obviously she has chosen to disregard the truth.”

“I imagine she’s embarrassed, especially since Mr. Farnsworth has proven to be a strong ally rather than a traitor. And since Miss Mintie’s so proud, it’s easier to seclude herself than face possible ridicule by others.”

They continued walking, stopping for a moment to glance in a window along the way. “I can understand Mintie’s hesitation to place herself in a position of public ridicule, but I’m her sister. It’s almost as if she’s unwilling to face the fact that she is wrong.”

Lilly thought about Addie’s words. “Admitting you’re wrong is difficult. I’ve wrestled with that issue myself. Perhaps we need to concentrate our prayers upon Miss Mintie. What do you think? If we can’t soften her, perhaps the Lord will.”

A glimmer shone in Miss Addie’s eyes. “Is that what helped change your attitude toward the mills?”

“A lot of prayer and several long talks with Matthew Cheever,” Lilly replied. “Even if Matthew and I never restore our relationship, he managed to show me that industrialization is a necessity. We can’t remain reliant upon England if we’re to be a free country. I continue to dislike the fact that East Chelmsford was the chosen spot, but I now accept that the mills are something I can’t change. I’m still praying about forgiveness toward those who wronged me. I believe I’ve come a long way in that regard, but when a day or two passes and I haven’t prayed about forgiveness, that same resentment creeps back into my mind. I think it will be an ongoing project for me.”

The women entered Whidden’s, stopping for a moment to examine a display of newly arrived lace. “Every one of us is an ongoing project that needs God’s forgiveness. You’ve matured in your faith right before my eyes, Lilly. If we can pray Mintie into that degree of maturity, perhaps we can mend our family ties. As for your relationship with Matthew, I believe you two are well on the way to restoration.”

Lilly ran her fingers across a shimmering piece of pale blue fabric. “I haven’t seen much of Matthew lately. It seems he is always busy with Corporation business and when he is finally available, I’m too tired or have made other plans.”

“That fabric would be a good choice for you—perhaps a new gown for the Blowing Out Ball,” Addie absently commented. “With Nadene starting back to work on Monday, I’m certain you’ll have more energy. I’m pleased she’s healed so well. I do admire your loyalty to Nadene.”

“It was the least I could do,” Lilly murmured, the compliment a reminder of the role she had played in Nadene’s injuries. She was certain God had forgiven her willful behavior. Forgiving herself, however, was proving more difficult. “I hope returning to work won’t prove too strenuous for Nadene. I know her burns have healed, but her cough seems to be getting worse. Have you noticed?”

“Occasionally she seems to have difficulty breathing deeply, but the last few weeks she has seemed stronger. Besides, she’s anxious to get back to work.”

The sound of pounding horse hooves, rumbling carriages, and loud voices sent Mrs. Whidden scurrying to the front of the store. “Wonder what’s going on out there?” she asked her husband.

Moments later, the bell above the door sounded, followed by laughter and chattering as several patrons entered the shop. Lilly glanced toward the shoppers and felt her knees buckle. She grasped the edge of the display case and steadied herself as she watched Matthew escort Isabelle Locklear into the store.

“This stop wouldn’t be necessary if Mother had permitted me ample time to prepare for the journey,” Isabelle cooed to Matthew. “I know you didn’t want to stop, but I simply refuse to go any farther knowing I’ve forgotten my hairbrush,” she continued. “You are sure a dear to indulge me.”

Lilly continued staring at the couple as Matthew patted Isabelle’s hand. “We musn’t take too long. Bishop Fenwick is waiting in his carriage. He’s anxious to get settled.”

“I promise I’ll hurry,” she replied, demurely peeking up from beneath the brim of her silk bonnet.

Lilly wanted to run from the store, but she would have to pass directly in front of Matthew to do so. If she could shrink behind one of the counters, perhaps she could remain undetected until Isabelle and Matthew completed their purchases. She began edging toward a tall display, then stopped and turned toward Miss Addie, who was now overcome by a fit of coughing. Matthew immediately looked in their direction. He appeared startled as he met Lilly’s unwavering gaze.

Moving forward, Matthew patted Addie on the back for a moment. “I’ll be right back,” he said to Isabelle. “Let me get you a cup of water,” he offered.

Addie ceased her coughing and gave Lilly a smug grin while Matthew rushed toward the rear of the store. “You were going to hide. But I wanted to be certain he saw you.”

Lilly gave the older woman an astonished look. “Why? So I would be further embarrassed?”

“Of course not,” Addie chided. “But knowing how you react, I was certain you would avoid Matthew. He wouldn’t have an opportunity to explain why he’s with that woman, and this whole matter would remain unresolved. There’s probably a very good explanation for all of this.”

“That’s Isabelle Locklear, Miss Addie. Kirk Boott’s niece. The one Boott wants Matthew to marry. Matthew told me they had parted company, but it appears he wasn’t as forthcoming as I had believed.”

Addie gave a gentle cough as Matthew approached. “Don’t jump to conclusions,” she whispered to Lilly before turning her attention toward Matthew. “I think I’m better, but thank you for your assistance. I believe I will drink that water,” she said, taking the cup.

“We need to talk,” Matthew whispered to Lilly while extending his hand to receive the emptied cup from Miss Addie. “I’ll stop by tomorrow evening.”

Lilly opened her mouth to refuse, but Matthew walked away without giving her an opportunity to protest.

****

Matthew slowed his stride to match Bishop Fenwick’s as he escorted the rotund cleric up the steps of the Boott residence the next morning.

“I trust you slept well, Bishop,” Boott greeted. “I understand the rooms at the Wareham House are quite comfortable.”