A Surrendered Heart by Tracie Peterson

Author:Tracie Peterson [Peterson, Tracie]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: FIC042030
ISBN: 9781441204615
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Published: 2009-08-31T21:00:00+00:00

July 4, 1899

Amanda descended the staircase carrying three thin ribbons between her fingers. She was determined to put aside her sorrow and concerns and enjoy the Independence Day celebration. Spotting Fanny and Sophie on the front porch, she walked outside and waved the red, white, and blue strands overhead. “Look what I’ve found. Now Elizabeth can join our Fourth of July tradition and wear ribbons that match ours.”

Sophie ran her fingers through the baby’s thin fluff of hair and giggled. “I don’t believe she has enough hair to keep the ribbons in place.”

Undeterred, Amanda twisted the ribbons together and tied them around Elizabeth’s waist. “There! That will do. Everyone will know she’s one of us.” She stood back and gave an approving nod.

Fanny waved toward the dock. “There’s Mr. Atwell. Come on, Sophie.”

“Where are you two going?”

“Your mother volunteered Sophie and me to greet guests as they arrive at Round Island for the celebration. We’re supposed to be there early to receive our instructions,” Fanny said. “Mrs. Oosterman’s orders.”

There would be no Fourth of July celebration on Broadmoor Island this year. The family would attend the huge gala being hosted by the Oostermans on Round Island. Amanda’s father had announced it would be a nice change for the family, but Amanda wondered if it was his way of avoiding the expense of their usual festivities.

“Wait a moment and I’ll go with you,” Amanda said.

Sophie shook her head. “Your mother wants you to go with them.”

“But why?”

“I’m sure I don’t know, but she was insistent you remain here.” Sophie nuzzled Elizabeth’s neck until the baby chortled with delight. “Would you mind taking Elizabeth upstairs to her nanny? Paul said he would bring her with him. We have a long day ahead of us, and she’ll be in better humor if she has a nap.”

Amanda lifted Elizabeth from Sophie’s arms and watched her cousins stroll down the path to the dock, still uncertain why her mother should want her to remain behind. She kissed Elizabeth’s plump cheek and carried her inside. “Let’s go upstairs. As soon as you take your nap, you can go on the boat and have fun.” The baby gurgled and smiled. How simple life was for babies. No cares or worries. They had only to cry and their needs were met. “Your life will become more difficult with each passing day, dear girl. You had better enjoy this simple life while you can.”

After leaving the baby with her nanny, Amanda went in search of her mother. She made a stop on each floor of the house and inquired of the servants, but none of them were any help. Even her father seemed to have disappeared. When she wanted to speak to her parents, they were nowhere in sight. After a half hour of searching, she gave up. She’d return to the front porch and wait.

“Uncle Quincy! When did you get here?” Her uncle was sitting on the lower veranda watching Beatrice’s children play a game of croquet.

He looked up and smiled.

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