Polish gleamed at my question and after choosing a wine turned and continued. "Not a secret -- ’tis more of a challenge of truths. You see Miss Mary, our master received a letter last week. Why the master is so ill from the words of the page that he called upon his businessman immediately. I do so hope all goes well. For if not, what shall become of him -- or of any of us?"

I tilt my head thinking on his words for I am now in all of confusion. Polish is talking in riddles. Where I was in search of names. I released a long sigh and put forth my question again, "But who is to arrive Polish?"

Polish looked me straight in the eye and said, "Why his nephew, the Colonel, of course."

I was shocked in hearing his words. The Colonel departed Scarborough after the reading of his father’s will years ago. At this time our master and his young nephew had a battle of words over properties and the Colonel bowed out. But now the Colonel returns once again . . . I wonder why?

I rushed back to the kitchen with wine in hand and proceeded to help set the dining parlor. Mama covered the table with a clean white cloth. I brought out the ushers with towels, basins and ewers. I checked to be sure there were two salt cellars on the table. Believe me -- I failed in this choice at one time. One eve our master spotted only one salt cellar and I was refused my sup. Worthless servants, he said to his guest that night. I will never forget those words -- worthless servant. But I still said a prayer for our master before I lay my head to pillow that eve.

After preparations were complete, I owned one hour before returning to my tasks. As the sun began to retrieve, I found myself following the pebble stone path through the gardens to take rest on a stone seat. I sit happily amongst the lilies and as I look up I spy the Colonel shaking hands with Sir Dreyssel. I observe them through the glass plate window and notice how handsome the Colonel has become. Their meeting appeared pleasurable, but suddenly all did not go well. 

I watched as the Colonel handed our master a paper or deed as such. Sir Dreyssel rose from his chair and screamed at the Colonel and then my heart sank in what followed. I stand and cover my mouth in shock. Oh no, I screeched. For in an angered rage Sir Dreyssel threw the ewer across the room breaking cups and saucers in its path. Unfortunately, Mama reentered the parlor during this happenstance. This startled Mama and the pitcher of water she carried fell to the floor. Sir Dreyssel began to rant and rave for her clumsiness she displayed. I could not bear the scene and sped to the parlor.

Although I dashed into the room, our master did not take heed to my entry. He continued screaming an abundance of cruel words which was unnecessary. Now completely out of control Sir Dreyssel stormed out of the room and Mama dabbed her tears as she walked back to the kitchen. My heart felt poorly for my mama. I knew not what to do after this upset but to gather the scattered pieces on the floor. The Colonel came to my side and begins to assist me in collecting the broken place settings.

As I reach for the salt cellar the Colonel suddenly stopped and peered at me strangely. 

"I remember you. For you are the beautiful maiden of the gardens. You sing to the enchanting lilies everyday. I recall your soft voice -- charming indeed. Pray pardon, what may I ask is your name, Miss lovely of the gardens?"

"’Mary Elizabeth, Sir." I glance at the Colonel then back to the floor and continue. "But if I may speak freely Colonel. I beg of you to let the floor be. For it is naught the work of a gentleman of your stature. I know for a fact that Sir Drelssel will punish us for such an act."

He looked to the entry where Sir took exit and glanced back at me. "Punish you? Oh nay, I say he would not. For truth be known, my Uncle did not pay his taxes and lost this property. I own the estate now. What say you of this, Miss Mary Elizabeth?"

Lilies of Song -3 (Continue)