“I hardly think it’s appropriate to respond, but it’s always of concern when anyone new arrives. Your grandfather was quite firm on the fact that we were to make your stay perfect,” Mary replied.
“And it has been. I have no complaints, though I know that so many other people do. My grandfather does not have the reputation of being a kind or fair man. In fact, from what I see, he’s ruthless and harsh. A man who cares little about what anyone else wants or needs.”
“Then I suppose there’s no sense in me denying it. His business associates have a strong respect for him.”
“More like a strong fear of him, I would say. The household staff no doubt feel that way too. I’ve watched the way you all tiptoe around him.”
Mary bowed her head slightly. “If I’m perfectly honest, I would say that as well.”
Judith nodded. “Mary, would you sit with me a moment?”
The housekeeper took the chair at Judith’s right. “I can spare a few minutes.”
“I want to thank you for the things you purchased on my behalf. I appreciate that you took the effort to buy what you thought would please me rather than my grandfather.”
The woman glanced up, looking rather relieved at the topic. “Of course. You are a pleasure to buy for. Such a trim shape, and your skin tone goes well with most every color.”
“Thank you.” Judith glanced toward the house. “There, now if anyone asks, we were discussing my wardrobe.”
Mary gave her a momentary look of panic. Judith shook her head. “Don’t be afraid of me, Mary. I want to be perfectly honest with you. I didn’t come here out of any great love for my grandfather. I came here only because he gave me money for my charities back east. Now I’m hearing about horrible things he’s done to others here in Minneapolis and elsewhere. He wants me to take over his investments once he’s gone, but I can only agree to do that, to become his heir, on one condition.”
Mary still looked fearful. “And what would that be?”
“That I can somehow right the wrongs he has made.”
A whisper of hope framed Mary’s next question. “Are you speaking truthfully?”
“I am. I would and do say the same before God Himself. He is, after all, my witness. Having learned who my grandfather really is, I’m more determined than ever to find a way to help those he’s harmed, starting with your sister Martha and her family.”
“Oh, if only you could. You don’t know the half of what Mr. Ashton did to my sister’s poor husband, Andrew. He was a dear man with a kind and gentle spirit. He was like a true brother to me.”
“I know there are those who blame my grandfather for your brother-in-law’s death. I would like to know more about that.”
“I will tell you what happened, and you can judge for yourself. Mr. Ashton was cruel and, indeed, did cause Andrew’s death, after a manner. It all began—”
“Miss Ashton, you have a visitor,” Harriet said, appearing on the path.
Bert Black drew alongside her and smiled. “I am delighted to have found you. May I join you?”
Mary looked at Judith and gave her a nod. “I’m glad to know you were pleased with my selections. There will be two gownscoming this week. I gave the seamstress your measurements and had her make adjustments to them first. They should arrive by Thursday.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Deeters. And thank you for bringing me lunch. Perhaps you could bring something for Mr. Black?”
“No, I’ve already had lunch, but I don’t mind sitting here with you while you enjoy yours.” He claimed the chair Mrs. Deeters had just deserted.
Mrs. Deeters followed Harriet toward the house. Judith had no desire to share her time with Bert Black, but there was no way to dismiss him without being rude.
“What brings you here today?”
“Business, as usual. I’ve been speaking with your grandfather and understand he is trying to teach you about his holdings. It’s all quite complicated, and I’m certain it must be vexing to you. I wanted to come and offer my help. You see, I’ve worked with him for so very long that I’m sure I know it as well as he does.” He chuckled at this and shrugged. “I even might know it better.”
“You are kind to make such an offer, but currently I find that I understand it quite thoroughly. My grandfather and I will be discussing any questions I have this afternoon.”
“Good, good. That makes my other purpose in seeing you even easier.”
“And what is that purpose?”
“To ask that you allow me the pleasure of taking you out to dinner on Friday evening.”
