Duran turned, trying not to look upset. “I wondered if your daughter would like some coffee. I’m making a pot.”
Wright looked at him doubtfully but then turned toward the stove. “She won’t want any, but we’ll take some. Let me know when it’s ready.”
Duran nodded. He felt frustrated that someone always seemed to be there to interfere with his plans, but it was just the way things were. He wasn’t going to spend a lot of time worrying about it. He’d simply get his work done and then go find NelsonWorthington. Someone was bound to know where he lived. Duran just needed to find that someone.
Nick arrived in Oswego eager to leave the train. He checked for wanted posters but found none in the station. He considered going to the police station, but he really had nothing of evidence to offer. He could tell them the sketch resembled Booker Duran, but he had no other proof. Maybe it’d be best to discuss the matter with the captain first. Captain Wright was a reasonable man with a good head on his shoulders. He’d know what to do.
With that matter resolved in his mind, Nick went directly from the train station to theMary Elise. He learned quickly about the repairs being made and that the family was staying with James Monroe. He hated to impose himself on the family, but he longed to see Elise and tell her all that had happened, as well as tell the captain about his suspicions. Wasting no time, he made his way to the Monroe estate and found himself readily admitted to the house.
The housekeeper went to announce him to the family, and it was only another minute before Elise appeared. She wore a beautiful silk gown the color of a dark plum. Her black hair had been pinned up with ribbons and pearls, and she looked very much the part of a proper socialite.
Nick bowed and straightened with a grin. “I’m here to see Miss Wright.”
“And I was looking for Nick Clark. Perhaps you’ve seen him,” Elise replied in amusement.
He glanced down and chuckled. “I was so anxious to get back here that I left directly from my lawyer’s office in Boston.”
“Lawyer?”
His smile faded. “My father died. The day after my arrival, but we had time to talk and to repair our relationship.”
Elise appeared to be trying to take this in. “I find myself both happy and sad to hear your news.”
“It’s really all joy. My father accepted Jesus as his Savior in my presence. I know I shall see him again one day.”
“Of course. I’m glad you have that assurance.” She nodded toward the formal sitting room. “Why don’t you join us, especially since you’re already properly dressed? I know my father will be eager to hear what happened.”
Nick followed her into the room, where her family, including Caroline, was already gathered. He gave a nod as Elise announced his return.
“He came directly here when he found no one at the ship.”
“You’re more than welcome, Mr. Clark. I must say, I was surprised to hear from my brother-in-law that you were from Boston,” Mr. Monroe declared. “Elise mentioned your family is into textiles. Your father isn’t Frederick Clark, is he?”
Nick was surprised by the question. “He was. I’m afraid my father passed away.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” Monroe replied.
“As am I, Nick.” Elise’s father rose in greeting. “Did you know him, James?”
“Not well, but I did business with him in the past. His mills produce some of the finest cottons. When I invested in that number of hotels, I searched many of the mills for just the right bedding, and his company had the best.”
“I’m glad you thought so.” Nick knew his father’s sheets were the finest to be had.
“I’m sorry to hear about your father, Nick.” Elise’s father motioned for him to join him on the couch.
Nick nodded and took a seat. “We set the past to rights, and Father made his peace with God. We had a good talk, and he let me know that he had already reinstated me in his will. I was no longer disinherited.”
“So now you’re a mill owner. Will you give up the sea?” James Monroe asked.
“No. In fact, I gave the mills to my sisters. Their husbands have been running the mills for many years. It seemed only right, since I have no interest in them.”
“That’s a lot of money to give away.”
Nick looked at Elise, who was smiling. “It seemed the right thing to do. My heart is still with sailing.”
“Well, perhaps you could work for me. You’re rich enough now to buy your own ship, and our freighting company is always looking to expand.”
Nick pretended not to see the way Elise’s expression fell or the thoughtful look her sister was giving him. “I appreciate your offer, sir. I haven’t yet had time to consider what I’ll be doing with my future. For now, I’m going to winter in Duluth and help Captain Wright make repairs on theMary Elise.”
