The Bairn of Brianag

On a sunny morning a week before Christmas Day, we were in the sewing room as usual; I was playing with James, who could now creep about the floor and must be returned to his pallet every few minutes. The room was quiet except for the little baby noises James made as he struggled to reach his rattle. Mrs. Randall was not there; she was in the kitchens making preparations for the evening's supper. Catherine spoke in her soft voice.

"Surely Robbie must come home soon."

I looked at her, realizing that I had forgotten Robbie's letter, had lost track of the time. "Yes, surely," I said. "Christmas is but a week away."

She put down her embroidery, looking out of the window. "Oh, Jessie, are you not worried about him?"

I thought of how Cathy and Robbie had been raised as brother and sister; it seemed quite natural to me that she cared more for Robbie's well-being than I did. I forgot about him for days at a time. I did not want to think of him in the back country, with his Indian wife; for I was afraid that, if I did, my contentment would shatter, and then I would be utterly lost. I could not think of him. I did not permit myself to do so.

I thought all this while she sat quietly; then I said, "You said yourself, Cathy, Robbie needs more time to come into his responsibilities. He is perfectly happy with the clan. He is one of them. But perhaps in time-"

"In time he will be master of Brianag!" she said. "It is his birthright."

"It is your birthright as well, Cathy," I said. "John will make a good master, if Robbie does not wish to live here."

"John! Master of Brianag!" she said, turning to me. She sighed. "I know that John would make a good master, if he were called upon to do so. But that is not what my parents wish. They want Robbie here, to take up his responsibilities and behave as a gentleman must! It is my mother's dream for her sister's son!" She took up her work again, taking the needle between her fingers and looking at it closely. "And what of you, Jessie? What is to become of you?" Her voice trembled suddenly. "How can he neglect you so? He has married you! He must take care of you!"

"Never mind, dear!" I said, making my voice light. "The first year of marriage is always the hardest, is it not! Remember, you and John spent a great deal of time apart, and all has come right for you! Just see how well!" I rolled James over and tickled his belly, and he chuckled out loud.