“Thank you, Mrs. Jones. We are most grateful.”
The older woman nodded, said something Sarah couldn’t hear, and walked away in the opposite direction.
Seeing her approach, her sister waved and waited for her. When she drew closer, Claire said, “What a night! Mary had her baby. A boy. That was the midwife just leaving.”
“How is Mary?”
“Exhausted, of course, but otherwise she seems perfectly well.”
“Thank God.”
“Yes. A healthy birth is always a relief to be sure. We have engaged a monthly nurse, who is up there with her now. Do come in out of the cold.”
Sarah wiped her feet on the rug and entered the front hall.
“Any word from her intended?”
“Unfortunately, no. William has written again to inquire about the ship’s whereabouts. I pray no harm befalls that young man—or I should say, that young father.”
“I shall pray as well.”
“For now, mother and child are both sleeping peacefully, so please come to our rooms for a chat.”
“Where are Mira and William?”
“He is playing with her up in the attic so I could have some time to myself. I did not get much sleep last night.”
“Oh, then I will go and let you rest....”
“Nonsense. I’d much rather talk with you.” Claire led the way upstairs to the sitting room of their apartment.
Once they both were seated, she said, “Now. Tell me how you are.”
“If I’m honest, I don’t know how I am. Torn, I suppose you could say. Would it be selfish of me to put my desire for love and marriage above what is best for Mamma and the rest of the family?”
“Selfish?” Claire repeated. “I think you might be idealizing the wedded state. William and I are very happy together, yet marriage is not all romance and kisses. It is also a serious responsibility. As is becoming a stepmother, I’ve learned. Both are challenging and important callings. And in your case, taking on a girl in her teens?” Claire raised her light eyebrows high. “You will find it far more demanding than any of your tasks at Sea View, I’m sure—though a joy too.”
“I had not thought of it that way.”
“Sarah, we all want you to be fulfilled and happy. None of us would ask you to give up something—or someone—you love. But ... do you love him?”
Did she?
“How does one know? I certainly admire him, respect him, trust him. I find him attractive, kind, considerate, and patient. Talented and honorable...”
Claire’s eyes shone, and a soft smile tilted her lips. “I think you have your answer.”
“Even if I do love him, there is more to life than attraction or affection. There is duty and responsibility, and self-sacrifice.”
As she had many times over their lives, Claire placed a hand over her eyes and slowly shook her head. “Sarah, Sarah, Sarah ... Don’t make this more complicated than it needs to be.”
“Too late,” Sarah said, and they both chuckled.
Then Sarah met her sister’s gaze. “Are you trying to get rid of me?”
“No, my dear. I would really miss you, but I want what’s best for you.”
“Thank you. It’s been difficult to think it through clearly, especially now with Mrs. Besley laid low, and Jessie soon to wed. And Mamma hasn’t seemed herself since our return. I pray she’s not relapsing after doing so well these last several months.”
