Finding Amelia by Jane Amelia Smith

Author:Jane Amelia Smith [Smith, Jane Amelia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781449759056
Publisher: WestBow Press
Published: 2012-03-07T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 14

Galynn Hall

Following the receipt of Mrs. Bissett’s letter, Amelia lived vicariously through her grandmother. The raw excitement she would not yet permit herself to feel, oozed from her grandmother’s every pore. Amelia wondered how a grown woman could become so captivated by the mystery surrounding a woman she had never known. Only when she dared be honest with herself, did she realized her own fascination with her namesake.

Sometimes, Amelia would fantasize about Amelia Currick Gale and her father. She would imagine that they had met in some faraway realm. Possibly, she thought, the lady might have confided in her father. Just maybe, he knew the matriarch’s secret, as well as her own.

It would be March 24th, before Amelia would receive more news from her grandmother. She learned that her Granny Lou, with considerable trepidation, had placed a phone call to Elizabeth Gale Bissett. With great pleasure, and without hesitation, she accepted an invitation for herself and Amelia to visit Galynn Hall on April 10th.

“Granny Lou, you are amazing, not only do we have an invitation, but April 10th is during my Spring break. My good grades are about the only thing Mom seems happy about lately; she will be pleased that I will not be missing any time from my studies.”

****

Lou’s mind raced fast forward with plans to make the four hundred forty six mile drive to Charles City, Virginia. Situated some eighteen miles east of Richmond, Galynn Hall was one of several stately plantation homes lining the scenic banks of the James River. Earlier research indicated that the area was well known for its eighteenth century homes. In light of the historical nature of the homes, many had been open to the public. Consequently, the area had become a popular tourist attraction.

The morning of April 9th was a flurry of activity. Taking no chances on over sleeping, Lou set her alarm clock for 5:00 AM. Though, on this morning she had little reason to believe she would not rise by the crack of dawn. Amelia, over the past year, had become very different in this regard. Lou felt it prudent to have the girl sleep over the night before their scheduled departure in order to avert any delay.

The aroma of fresh brewed coffee quickened Lou’s step as she made her way down the stairs and into the kitchen. To her surprise, Amelia stood waiting for her. The sixteen year old was dressed, packed and ready to begin the journey. Always thoughtful, Amelia had prepared coffee and a light breakfast of cold cereal for both herself and her grandparents.

“Well, aren’t you the early one; I hope I am not holding you up!” Lou beamed as she spoke to her lovely granddaughter.

Flippantly, Amelia retorted. “Why, not at all, Granny Lou. Why would you think I would be in a hurry on the dawn of my vacation?”

Lou laughed, and instinctively patted Amelia on her form fitting jean clad derriere. “That’s my old Amelia!”

Without haste they downed a bowl of cereal and a cup of Amelia’s enticing coffee.

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