The Bairn of Brianag

I was obliged to watch them from the terrace as they parried on the lawn. I did not mind. Sitting in the sun, watching Robbie stride and leap about, was enough to fill my heart to overflowing; hearing his voice was a tonic to my soul. The desolation I had felt was forgotten in my joy. I felt the peace of Brianag soaking into my being.

We were called in for cake and wine; I was somewhat dismayed to find John Belden's aunt, Madam Fletcher, in the house. A formidable old lady, she found fault with almost everyone, and I found it impossible to be comfortable in her presence.

After eating, the boys went back outdoors and my father and Mr. Randall wandered away to discuss the things that gentlemen discuss together, and I was left with Mrs. Randall and Madam Fletcher.

"We just received word that the Smedley girl is to be married!" said Mrs. Randall.

I didn't reply; I barely knew Patricia Smedley and my mind was with Robbie and Kevin, wondering what they were doing.

"Indeed!" answered Madam Fletcher.

"To a young man from Orangeburg, named Smith," said Mrs. Randall. She took a piece of paper from her pocket. "Cyril Smith. The wedding date is set for twenty-second April."

"So soon!" said Madam Fletcher. "One wonders why they wouldn't wait for June."

"Yes." Mrs. Randall put the paper on the table next to her chair. "We are not close friends with the Smedleys; I do not know any details."

"I know the Smedleys quite well; there's no need for me to speculate," said Madam Fletcher. "The girl is with child."

My attention was jerked abruptly back to the conversation. I looked at Madam, then at Mrs. Randall. Her face was quiet, but had gone quite pale. "Madam, I implore you! Miss Maclaine!"

"The young lady should hear about these things; let it serve as a warning to her."

"But, Madam!" Mrs. Randall said. "I beg you-"

"Mrs. Randall, we have been neighbors for many years," said Madam Fletcher. "You know that I will speak my mind, and as abhorrent as it is to me to say it, it is a disgraceful situation. How can the girl's parents have allowed her to find herself in such a state? How can they hold up their heads?"

"Madam," said Mrs. Randall, "I must insist that you forbear speaking until Miss Maclaine leaves the room." She rose to her feet, and called to Polo, the butler. "Polo, run and find Mr. Robbie and young Mr. Maclaine. Tell them to return to the house at once." She looked at me. "Jessie, please go to the terrace and wait for your brother."