THE PATH TO A PROMISE Chapters 22, 23, & 24

 

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO 

As the days passed, Olive didn't see Jimmy Maston, and Charlotte didn't mention Maston or Vince, so Olive let the matter go. She didn't bring up the subject with George, either. It was best to forget it.

The war raged on in Europe, and Christmas was upon them as the months rolled by. William brought home a small cedar tree, and they decorated it with popcorn strings, paper angels, and silver tinsel. A homemade star took its rightful place atop the little cedar.

Mary Jane loved Christmas, and she decorated the windows with evergreens and ribbons. In the evenings, she lit a candle in the front windows and kept an eye on them due to the fire threat.

Mary Jane hired an electrician to wire her house for electric lighting during this time. The new electric lamps and ceiling lights made a big difference while reading, sewing, and performing other necessary chores.

A few months before, Mary Jane had a workman install a water closet with the latest sanitary white fixtures. Running water was now considered a luxury, and the women loved soaking in the big white tub with feet fashioned like lion's paws. Lizzie was expecting again and used the tub to soak and relax.

Lizzie eventually lost the baby she was carrying, and her health declined even more. She fell into depression and cried at almost everything everyone talked about. Mary Jane insisted that Lizzie go to the doctor.

When William took her to the hospital, the doctor was adamant that there be no more pregnancies. It was ruining Lizzie’s health. The doctor was afraid she would end up suffering twice as much if she continued to try to have a baby, so he gave them an unwanted ultimatum: abstain from intimacy.

"But I want to have another baby, our baby!" Lizzie protested that evening. She sat close to her husband on the gold and red brocade couch, her legs pulled under her skirt.

William held his wife close and hugged her. "I want that too, darling. But I also don't want to lose you. We must do what the doctor asks."

Mary Jane washed the last of the supper dishes and joined them in the living room. Olive dried a teacup, folded the towel, and followed Mary Jane.

"I know this is a delicate subject, but I have an idea." Mary Jane offered.

"Do tell us, Mother." William sat up to listen to his mother's suggestion.

"Your health is of the utmost importance. Doctor Billings wants you to regain your strength, so that's why he ordered what he did. Stay on this new procedure for a few months into the new year. When you feel better and fit as a fiddle, perhaps you and William can try for a baby again." Mary Jane smiled, warmth and love lighting her eyes.

"I say, Mother, what a solid idea!" William exclaimed, looking at his wife. His face lit with excitement. "I should have thought of that!" A boyish grin played around his mouth.

Lizzie chuckled. "You've been too worried, William. And I'm sorry to be a burden on you. I miss Clara Mae and want another baby before I get too old. And…"

"Shush, darling," William caressed her. "You're not a burden, and I know you miss your little girl."

"Our house is big enough to hold another person," Mary Jane said. "Bring Clara Mae to live here."

Everyone gasped as surprise lit their eyes. Lizzie put her hands to her mouth and closed her eyes momentarily.

"Another splendid idea!" William looked at Lizzie. "Are you up to going down to get her?"

Lizzie shook her head. "No, William, I can't take care of her right now." Tears started again, and she hid her face with her hands. "I'm failing as a mother!"

Mary Jane interceded. "You're not failing, Lizzie. Rest and regain your strength. Then, you can see how you feel in a few months and go from there. Think about it…in the springtime when the bluebirds are singing and the trees are covered in their glorious blooms, you might get Clara Mae!" Her words held faith and hope, something to hang on to.

Olive agreed with the older woman. Mary Jane was a kind and caring Christian woman who did anything she could for anybody. Olive battled feelings of embarrassment for possibly taking advantage of Mary Jane's benevolence in providing a home for Olive. She refused to take rent money, insisting that Olive save it to get her own place.

"You must feel stronger if you have more children. Clara Mae is nine now. She could be a big help to you. Tell Mama and Pa what you intend to do and plan ahead. Then, you can bring her here to live when the time comes." Olive smiled sweetly at her sister.

Lizzie listened and agreed. "Thank you, Sister. And William, thank you for understanding. Mother, thank you for helping me!"

"Lydia is coming to stay over Christmas. Why don't you and Olive go shopping in a few days? The window displays are beautifully filled with Christmas goodies galore!" Mary Jane suggested.

"That will cheer you up!" William added. "My sister has a magical charm over you."

Mary Jane agreed. "Lydia always wants to have fun! Perhaps you can all go to the picture show some evening, too."

Lizzie perked up. "It would be wonderful to get out of the house. What's playing at the theatre?"

"Charlotte said Charlie Chaplin is playing in a short called A Night in the Show," Olive said. "You'd probably love it."

William added, "We'll plan to go as soon as you feel better."

"That's settled." Mary Jane nodded.

"Mary Jane, I want to apologize to you." Olive’s eyes were misty, and her mouth was grim. Before Mary Jane could say anything, Olive went on. "I've overstayed my welcome. I confess I've not been looking for my own house. But I'll try to find something so that I can move as soon as I can. I appreciate all you've done for me."

Mary Jane scowled. "Olive, you are welcome here with us, never think that again!"

Olive thanked the older woman and smiled, but she felt lousy. As she lay in bed and thought about not having her own home, she would start looking again and plan to move out in the new year. She would bring Peter to live with her and find a nanny to watch him while she worked. It was a plan that gave her new hope and something to work toward.

 ***

Lydia arrived in Joplin on the train five days before Christmas, and William and Lizzie met her at the Union Depot. The station bustled with activity, and people were coming and going. William led the women to the lunchroom, where they ordered food and chattered, catching up on the news. Lydia and Ansel planned to move to Oklahoma, where he found a job in the Bartlesville oil fields.

"I'm so happy for Ansel! "William exclaimed when he heard his sister's news. "Oil's big business now, with that gusher they found in Tulsa. Say, Tulsa is closer to us than Bartlesville."

Lydia laughed. "Yes, I know you want us to live close to you and Mother. But it's his decision to make. He got a good offer and wants to try his hand at the job. He'll be driving supplies to the fields."

"I'm sure he'll be successful."

Lydia sipped her tea while the waiter brought their food. Cream of celery soup served with a chicken thigh, thick bread slices slathered with sweet cream butter, creamed corn, and a dish of vanilla ice cream were laid before them.

The waiter, a young lady dressed in a checked gingham dress and a white apron tied about her middle, smiled at them. "Can I get you anything else? I also want to tell you we have a special Christmas plum pudding today. It's similar to the British pudding."

Lizzie spoke first. "Not for me, thank you anyway. If I manage to eat all of this, I'll be stuffed like a Christmas goose."

Everyone laughed. William declined the pudding, and the waiter left. After lunch, William drove them home, and Lydia settled in at her mother's house. Lizzie napped and got up in time to help Mary Jane with supper.

Olive had the day off the next day, and the ladies went shopping. William had to work, so Lydia took her mother's carriage. Stopping at Newman's Department Store, they perused all of the aisles, choosing gifts. After lunch at the lunch counter, they drove home to wrap their gifts and put them under the tree.

 ***

Two days before Christmas, Jimmy Maston stopped at the Golden Maiden in the evening. He was a striking figure compared to many men. His beige slacks and long-sleeved white linen shirt were pressed and expensive. His light brown hair slicked back with pomade, shone under the lights from the ceiling and his confident grin was a showstopper.

Olive and Charlotte watched him breeze through the door and look around. Seeing them, he waved and strode to a table on the west wall, his shiny shoes tapping a rhythm on the waxed hardwood.

Charlotte punched Olive on the arm. “Look at him! Looks like candy to the eyes."

Olive laughed and looked at her friend. “Charlotte!” Secretly, she agreed with her friend.

"I see it in your eyes, and it's written all over your face. You think he's like candy, too!"

George came up from behind, standing close. “Ogling the pretty boys, again, girls?”

Olive slapped at George, but he was too quick and moved away. “The Golden Maiden is the place for good-looking men, I’ll say that.”

“Thanks!” George's grin was wide and playful. "I wish you meant it."

"Oh, George, a beautiful girl will walk through those doors one of these days and sweep you off your big feet!” Charlotte spoke playfully to him.

“In my dreams.” George slumped into the kitchen.

Charlotte turned her attention back to Olive. “Go wait on him. And be friendly. I’m sure he wants company and nothing else.”

Olive quirked a brow and went to Maston’s table. Pad of paper in hand, she casually asked him if he knew what he wanted to eat and drink.

Maston placed both hands on the table, frowning. “What, no, hello? Am I just another customer? That's the thanks I get for saving you?"

It was hard to ignore his demeanor. Olive’s blush crawled up her face and melted into her dark hair. Why was Maston so dog-gone good-looking? Like Mama's flower beds in summer, the pleasant scent of red geraniums and orchard peaches tickled her nose. His hair reminded her of the color of pecans she picked up each fall back home.

“I’m working, remember?”

“Oh yes, the working girl.” His brows shot up, and he flashed a broad smile and gave his order. “It’s not busy. Come and sit with me. Please and thank you.”

Olive’s insides melted like warm taffy. Charlotte said he had never married. Why did he stay away for so many months? What was his business in Joplin? A million questions danced their way around her brain.

When she served his supper, she sat across from him. They conversed about Joplin, and he gave Olive a history lesson about how Joplin evolved from a crude mining camp to the rough and rowdy city it was. He had inside information on many of the businessmen. Their investments in the mines were the best-selling reasons to build in town. Joplin was a booming, growing town. It rivaled Springfield and Kansas City.

Charlotte kept up with the few customers who straggled in. Once, she approached their table to say hello. "Jimmy, you never come around, and Mama's been wondering about you. I know she would like you to visit."

Jimmy smiled deeply. "Tell Aunt Rosie I'm working hard, and it's business as usual."

Charlotte's laughter reminded Olive of a string of tinkling brass bells. "You…working hard? That'll be the day. Say, is Vince Wolf still hanging around Joplin? You know he scared Olive! If I saw him, I'd punch him into next year!" She quickly added, "Thank you for saving her, by the way."

"Vince Wolf has no intentions of leaving Joplin. You know him; he has no ambition except to be a bum."

Charlotte shook her head. "A real loser. Hey, listen, you big lug, be nice to my girlfriend, you hear?" She looked at Olive and winked.

"I'm trying!" Maston shot back.

Charlotte's voice grew low, and Olive barely heard it. "Have you seen Uncle lately? Lloyd came in asking."

"Yeah," Maston replied. "I caught up with him last week."

She nodded her head. "See ya 'round, Cousin." She returned to her work.

Minutes later, Maston told Olive goodbye, paid for his meal, left her a generous tip, and departed the Maiden. Olive picked up the bills he left and shoved them into her pocket. It was thrilling!

She giggled, hoping he would return more often so she could work his table.

 

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE 

Olive did not see Jimmy Maston for weeks. At the end of each day, she left work alone but was more aware of her surroundings. She carried Pa’s pocketknife everywhere she went. She secretly looked for Maston every day but dared not show her disappointment. She kept it all bottled up inside. She denied her attraction to Jimmy. After all, Henry was a good-looking man, and she fell hard for him. She didn't need a handsome man in her life. She was making her way in life and doing fine. Except…she had to admit loneliness crept in at times. She saw Lizzie and William's marriage and longed for companionship and conversation.

Finally, one evening Maston showed up at the Golden Maiden just before they locked the doors for the night. He came to take Olive home in his new motorcar, but Olive declined.

“I, I – “she hesitated.

“What’s wrong?”

“I don’t want you to know where I live. There. I said it.” Her face showed her feelings.

A smile curved his mouth. Licking his lips, he drew a breath. “I already know where you live.”

Blinking, countless thoughts raced around her head. He knew? “I don’t understand, Maston.”

“You know, I do have a first name.”

Instantly, she felt bad. It was unlike her to be rude. But shouldn’t she be standoffish? She wasn’t an easy woman. She had to make that fact clear.

“I'm sorry. Jimmy.”

We haven’t had much time to get to know one another,” he stopped. "But I want to, so I followed you one evening.”

Her breath drew in quickly, and dizziness threatened.

He hurried on. “I like you, Olive. I want you to like me, too. Give us a chance to become friends. Let me take you home tonight.” When he told her it was foggy, she changed her mind. It had rained most of the day, and fog had set in late afternoon. Not a good time to be walking alone.

“I want to make sure you get home safely,” he told her as he guided the 1914 Ford down south Main Street toward Byers Avenue.

“Thank you,” Olive said, smiling. She pulled her shawl closer around her as if it would save her from danger. “I’ve not had the chance to thank you for such a generous tip,” she added. “I do appreciate it.”

“You deserve it.”

“I did very little; sat and talked with you mostly.”

“It was much-needed conversation.” He flashed a smile. "And companionship."

That word jolted Olive. Wasn't that exactly what she needed?

Maston pulled the Model T into the front yard. His gloved hand touched Olive’s hand, and he said, “Let’s go somewhere on your day off.”

Olive quickly answered. “I don’t go much.”

Maston nodded, chuckling. “Just as I thought. Then it’s time you did, don’t you think?”

She said nothing, biting her lower lip.

“Remember, you can trust me.” His quiet voice pulled at her conscience. He shifted his weight to face her. “I know my cousin has told you about me. Charlotte told her mother. Her mother told my mother.”

“Charlotte hasn't said much about you. She cares for you a lot, Jimmy. She told me how poor her family is, and she needs to work as much as possible.”

Jimmy let out a guffaw. Olive jumped. Catching himself, he quickly stopped and apologized. “I apologize for that." He stared at her, waiting for her reply.

Olive was shocked at his attitude. "My family is poor, too. They live in the hills down in Brooming County. Pa provides what he can, but it's rough. I send them money when I can. It's not a laughing matter."

He apologized. "You take care of your parents?"

Olive hesitated to tell him about Peter, then decided to anyway. "I have a five-year-old son living with Pa and Mama. I send what I can to help out."

"I see," Maston cocked an eyebrow at her, studying her face.

“Charlotte’s a friend. We worked together at the Connor Hotel. She helped me get the job at the Maiden.” She looked at him. “I suspect you know that.”

He chuckled, his face softening the lines around his mouth and eyes. “Yes. I know what Charlotte knows about you.” He inserted quickly, “Don’t be mad at her. I ask questions. She answers them.”

Olive nodded.

“Let’s go to the flick. They’re playing Ivanhoe.” His voice was full and rich. He looked into her eyes.

“I love the Keystone Kops.”

She saw the shadow cross his face, and his head dipped slightly before answering. “I prefer Ivanhoe over cops.”

Olive smiled. She didn’t question his response. “Ivanhoe it is, then.”

“Pick you up on your day off, which is….”

“This Friday.”

“Splendid! Friday night, I’ll be here an hour early, and we can dine at a supper club on Fourth.”

They said goodbye, and Maston waited until she got inside the house and pulled away.

Over the next few weeks, events happened quickly. A new mining field was discovered in Cushing, Oklahoma, and people were abuzz about the news. The Cimarron River Bed operation seemed to grow the town overnight.

The business of oil was making men rich and powerful. Olive’s brother Ben dropped by on his way to Oklahoma to find work one afternoon. He was eager to make a nice living for Mayme and the baby they were expecting.

Despite the warnings from the doctor, Lizzie experienced another miscarriage. Her health suffered, and everyone was afraid for her life. Finally, Mary Jane stood her ground and demanded that William and Lizzie stop trying to have a family. The outcome was hurt feelings and a silent household. William felt he was between two women he adored but could not please. His wife wanted a baby, and his mother did not want that to happen.

To make matters worse, Peter got sick, and nothing Nancy had tried helped heal him. The herbs were not powerful enough, so Peter went to the doctor, which caused Olive to owe a large bill.

Olive felt the tension throughout the house, making her want her own house much more. The problem seemed to grow, but all she could do was work and pray.

Jimmy Maston came to eat at the Golden Maiden more often. He and Olive grew to know each other better, and she began to trust him. Each time he came to see her, he carried a gift. A ruby bracelet, a fur hand warmer, or something for her vanity table, such as a gilded mirror, brush, and comb set. Furs, jewelry, hats, and stockings. When Lizzie and William asked about the man she kept company with, she was vague. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to acknowledge that she was interested in a man again or not.

Charlotte encouraged their romance, saying it was good for Olive to experience life with a new man, especially when the man was her cousin.

Thank goodness Vince Wolfe had never again tried to accost her. Over time, the nightmares Olive suffered from began to fade.

Jimmy asked Olive to marry him on a cold night after the theatre and a late supper. He assured her that he would always provide for her, including Peter and her parents. He wanted to show her how to live, what Joplin was about, and give her a good life.

Olive balked. She was certainly not expecting his proposal. She was settled into single life, was comfortable, and liked it. Olive refused Maston. She would not marry him. Maston disagreed and warned her he would continue trying to steal her heart until she said yes.

Despite Olive sending money to her parents for Peter's doctor's bill, she needed more. She gave Mary Jane the equivalent of rent while staying with her. She didn't know what to do. Being a woman living alone and trying to make a life was harder than she hoped. Women's rights were moving forward, but there was a lot of ground to cover to claim victories. Jobs other than domestic were almost unheard of, and skilled workers were even more scarce.

Olive’s dream of attending college and traveling the countryside, working as a newspaper journalist had faded through the years. The carefree life of meeting people, sharing their stories, and writing about them was just a dream. Her first mistake was falling under Henry Winters' spell. Her chest tightened because she knew he hadn't loved her. And when the baby came along, that proved he was only looking out for himself. A sob escaped at the truth those memories brought.

The memories weren't solving her problem. What could she do? Will Brier popped into her thoughts, his kind and expressive face and his way with words easing the hurt. But she hadn't seen him again after all this time.

Jimmy Maston was next in line in her thoughts. If she agreed to marry Jimmy, he promised her a rich life. Maybe not rich, but certainly not poor. He owned a motor car and ran a business. He was handsome and educated, and he knew many people. Perhaps marrying him would provide her with a new way of life. What if she asked him to employ her? She might help him with the business side. She knew arithmetic and was good at spelling. A plan sparked her interest in Maston.

As the days passed, her mother wrote about needing money to pay the doctor bills. Between Jimmy's promises and her need for cash, her resolve wore down. She and Jimmy were married at the Jasper County courthouse, and she moved into his apartment at the Ridge Apartments, not far from St. John’s Hospital in Joplin. He kept the apartment in the city for when he stayed in town for business purposes.

Life married to Jimmy was certainly different. For one, being a businessman, he dressed the part. His suits and ties always matched. He bought the finest leather shoes the stores carried. Sometimes, he ordered them from the Sears Book. And, oh, his hair! Clipped short on the sides, his top curls were usually wind-tossed and unruly. He refused to control them with pomade because it ruined his hats.

Carrying a wide leather briefcase, he left every morning promptly at nine o’clock. Jimmy loathed being late; punctuality was his middle name, he told Olive. He often went out of town on business ventures and stayed away for several nights. He told her he was in Oklahoma managing his father's affairs during those trips. When she approached him for possibly hiring her in the office, he promised that when the next opening came along, she'd be the new hire.

"When will I meet your folks?" she asked him.

"Soon," he answered.

Jimmy was good to her. She had anything she wanted or needed. And the best thing about it was that he had promised her they would bring Peter to live with them.

Olive wrote to her parents about it all. She told them to prepare Peter’s trunk a few days before they expected her arrival. Peter would have a new home. However, something bothered her about Jimmy. When her questions continued, he scooted around them and started a new conversation.

He had his life and career, and she continued to work at the Golden Maiden. 

***

While Olive made supper one rainy night, Ben appeared at her door. He stopped in Joplin before going home. He had taken time off from working the Picher mines and needed to go home to be with Mayme when she had the baby. Ben naturally assumed that his sister was still living with the Madison family. But when he stopped at their house, they told him Olive was married and where she was living.

“I thought you weren’t getting married again, Sis,” Ben said teasingly. He sat at the kitchen table, his legs crossed, his arms on the table. He enjoyed a glass of iced tea while Olive pulled a pan of fluffy biscuits from the oven.

“A girl can change her mind any time she wants,” Olive replied with a smile. “Besides, I have plenty of money now, so guess what? We’re going down to get Peter!”

Just as she spoke, the door opened, and Jimmy hurried inside, rain dripping off his dark overcoat. Removing his dripping hat, he tossed it on the wall rack and set his briefcase on the floor.

"It's raining cats and dogs out there!" He turned and saw Ben. “What’s this?” Back stiff, face drawn, Maston looked like he was ready to pounce.

Olive stepped toward him. “Jimmy, this is my brother, Ben Johnson. He’s on his way home and stopped to see me.”

Maston raised his chin and eyed Ben, a twitch pulling at his lower lip, then stuck out his hand. “Are you staying long?”

Olive’s brows lifted as a scowl marred her face. “Jimmy! Don’t be rude!”

She watched her brother swallow the last of the tea before answering. “Just passing through.”

Maston removed his overcoat, hanging it beside his hat. Turning, with a smile on his face, unfastening his cream-colored tie, he said, “Not bein’ rude, just askin’ a question.”

He left the room.

“Sis, I hope you’re happy. I’ll let you know when Mayme has the baby.” Ben hugged her tightly and left. She invited him to stay for supper, but he declined and was gone in a minute.

Olive noticed the way the two men stared at each other. She put the meal on the table and called Jimmy to eat. He wore a night robe over silk pajamas and gray wool slippers. A heady blend of woodsy spice mingled with the roast and potatoes on the table.

They ate quietly. Jimmy chewed the beef as if he were starving, but Olive picked at her plate. She pushed the food back and forth but did not take a bite.

“Aren’t you hungry?”

“You took my appetite away, treating my brother like you did.”

Grunting again, he swallowed a drink of cold water. “I didn’t like catching him here.”

“Catching him? What do you mean?”

“I know who your brother is; I've seen him around. That Tanner fellow he runs with is no good. That means your brother is no good.”

Olive’s face burned, and the heated sensation dropped to her shoulders. It felt like coals burning her neck. Her nose stung as hot tears glazed her eyes. She shot a look at Maston.

“Tanner?”

“Somebody by the name of Joe Tanner. That’s all I know,” Jimmy said, as he buttered a biscuit. “I’ve heard plenty of stories about him and your brother."

Olive dropped her fork. Her throat felt the fire this time. Ben was running around again with Joe Tanner. She could not believe it, would not believe it until she got an answer from her Ben. What was Ben thinking? She shoved her chair back, jumping up. “I’m taking the buggy to see Lizzie and Mary Jane.”

“In this rain? You’ll catch your death,” Jimmy replied. But instead of saying more, he wiped his mouth and went to his favorite chair, gathered the newspaper, and lit a pipe.

 ***

Olive entered the gated front fence and knocked on Mary Jane’s door. When William answered, she hurried to the living room and looked around for Ben. He was not there.

“He said something about having business to take care of before leaving tomorrow,” Lizzie explained. “What are you doing here so late, Sister?”

Olive told them what Maston said about Ben and Tanner. Lizzie, William, and Mary Jane didn’t believe it. They thought Ben would have more respect and decency than that. It was growing late, and Olive had to work the next day, so she left without seeing her brother.

That night, Olive tossed and turned in bed. Disappointment grieved her soul. She needed to talk to Ben. He ran around with Tanner before Dan’s death, and it caused trouble. After the shooting, Ben promised that he would never be seen in the company of Tanner again.

Olive questioned what Jimmy told her, but surely, Jimmy knew what he was talking about. A thought struck her: possibly Ben had another friend who looked like Tanner. That was probably the explanation, but she had to find out as soon as possible.

The problem was that Olive had to work, and even though she wrote letters to her mother asking about Ben, her mother never spoke about the subject.

Something wasn’t right and she began to believe what Jimmy said about her brother.

 

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR 

The winter in Joplin was frigid, stormy, and snowy. Overcast skies made streets slick with icy slush, and below-zero temperatures caused arctic-like days. Icicles hung from frosty windows and bare trees shook fiercely with the biting wind.

Olive and Lizzie carried their bags to Mary Jane’s house one afternoon after shopping downtown. Olive opened the gate, waiting for her sister to climb the steps to the porch. But Lizzie slipped on the icy step and fell on her side, the bags of groceries scattering about the sidewalk.

Olive and Mary Jane helped Lizzie into the house and put her to bed, then called a nurse from St. John’s Hospital to make a home visit. The nurse examined Lizzie and gave a grim reply.

She deeply bruised her right side, injured her hip and leg, and twisted her back in the process. The nurse suggested that Lizzie regularly visit the hospital so a doctor could evaluate her more closely. Adding a prescription for the pain, she left the house.

From that time on, Lizzie’s back problems progressed to the point that she suffered even while on large doses of laudanum. It was later found that tuberculosis in her spine caused all of the trouble. She became crippled, and William bought her a wheeled chair.

The doctor advised her never to try to have a child again, as Lizzie’s body would not tolerate it. And if she did, there could be a grim outcome. Lizzie continued the regular doctor visits to St. John’s, but soon, the monthly visits turned to weekly.

Lizzie entered the hospital in May, and the doctors watched her closely, but nothing could be done except for giving her medicine for the pain. Surgery was out of the question, and Dr.Gray suggested that she get her affairs in order.

Antiseptics and bleach wafted from the hallways as Olive sat in the one chair in Lizzie's hospital room. William had not yet arrived.

A small pitcher of water, a paper cup, bleached towels, and the untouched supper plate sat on the table beside the bed. Lizzie was sleeping. Her chest rose and sank with each breath.

Olive was thankful Lizzie's pain had eased. Lizzie's dark hair was pulled into a braid hanging over a bony shoulder. Her face was sallow and thin. Olive guessed she must have lost more weight over the last few months. Lizzie moaned, turning her head on the pillow. Her mouth moved, but no words were spoken when she opened her eyes.

Olive quickly stood and leaned over the bedside. "Lizzie, would you like a drink of water?"

Lizzie gave a nod. Olive put the glass to her sister's lips, and Lizzie sipped. "Promise me, Sister. Take care of Clara Mae." Tears formed in Lizzie's eyes, and she sniffed. ''I’m dying…"

"Lizzie, don't talk like that. Listen to me; you are just weak right now. You're going to get better and go home! Then you'll go get Clara Mae."

Lizzie looked at Olive, her eyes hollow with death's appointment. "Please. Promise to help take care of my girl."

Olive took a deep breath and mustered the courage to keep from breaking into sobs. She knew her sister would probably not live much longer, but she had to hold on to hope! She prayed for God to spare her sister's life. Lizzie was a mere twenty-eight years old. She couldn't die. She had to live! Everyone needed her. She needed her. Stark truth slammed into Olive, and she almost broke down.

She held Lizzie's cool hand in hers and mustered a smile for her dear sister. "I promise."

Lizzie licked her cracked lips and grimaced. "I feel broken. I wish Mama were here." She stopped speaking, breathing deeply. "Take care of William, too, Olive. We think he's strong, but you'll see he's not strong inwardly. I want him to marry again and be happy…"

"Lizzie!" Olive cried, "You’re going to get well, do you hear me?"

Footsteps echoed from the hallway and stopped abruptly. William appeared in the doorway. He stood hunched over, his hat pulled low. His face fell even lower when he looked into the room, wrinkles bunching around his eyes. Olive saw the anguish written there.

He held a jar with a red rose and three buds among the glossy green leaves.

He stepped into the room and hurried to Lizzie. "Hello, my sweetest love." His forced smile said it all. "Any updates?"

Lizzie's voice was low and full of love. "No news is good news, right?"

"That's what they say. I brought these red roses fresh off Mother's climbing rose bush in the back garden." He bent and kissed her forehead.

Lizzie's eyes sparkled, and she held up her hand. "Let me smell..."

William held the ruby flowers to her nose, smiling as he did so. His hand trembled, but he pulled back slightly and removed his hat. He turned and put it on the table. Glancing at Olive, his eyes widened as his expression paled.

She jumped to his rescue and poured water into the glass. "What a wonderful gift for your wife, William. Lizzie loves roses."

William smiled. "Mother said red roses mean love." Looking down at his sick wife, he told her he loved her. Lizzie returned the sentiment, closed her eyes, and slept.

After fourteen days, she passed away one afternoon in mid-May. Her body was taken to Hurlbut Undertakers. Everyone gathered at Mary Jane’s house to wait for the graveside service. Lizzie was buried in Fairview Cemetery in West Joplin.

A small crowd of mourners met at the cemetery in the late afternoon. The undertaker’s hearse stopped, and the Madison men carried the casket to the gravesite. The service was short, and after the rites were read and the casket lowered to the ground, mourners began to depart.

Bud and Nancy brought Clara Mae and Peter to the service. Peter stayed close to Olive. He was six years old and didn’t realize what was happening and why people were sad and crying all the time. Pearl and Charley were there, but Ben and Mayme were not, as Mayme had the baby a few days before.

Jimmy was away on a business trip, and Lydia and Ansel stayed close to Olive in case Olive fainted from the emotional stress. Lydia’s arm wrapped around Olive’s waist, holding her tight.

“I’m an orphan!” Clara Mae cried, her ten-year-old body shuddering. She clung to Nancy’s long black skirt, tears spotting the dark fabric. Nancy tried to soothe her, but nothing she said helped. Olive broke free of Lydia’s arms and stepped next to the young girl, rubbing her hand down Clara Mae’s long hair. Clara Mae looked up at Olive and cried out, “It’s your fault, Aunt Olive!”

“Child!” Nancy scolded, but it did not stop the young girl.

“Peter has you and his daddy. But I don’t have no one!” Tears kept falling down the girl’s puffy, flushed cheeks and splashed the front of her dress. Stomping her booted foot, Clara Mae struck out at Olive but missed.

Peter ran to his mother, grabbing her skirt. His eyes were wide as saucers, listening to his cousin’s outburst. Olive stroked his shoulders and held him tight.

Clara Mae suddenly turned to William, shouting, “And you promised you’d come get me, but you lied!”

William’s face went white, and he stood still, not knowing what to say or how to act.

“Time to get on home,” Bud said, turning to Nancy. “We've got to get on the train.”

Catching Clara Mae in his long arms, Bud took her to the automobile. Olive and Peter followed Bud and Nancy. “Pa, I promise I’ll come for Peter in a couple of months. Let me talk to Jimmy and make a plan.”

Peter’s mouth fell into a frown, and tears formed in his eyes. “I want to stay with you, Mama!”

Olive bent low and looked her boy in the face. “Go home with Pa and Mama, and I will come get you as soon as I can."

"Do I have to?” Tears ran down his cheeks.

“Yes. For now.” Olive’s heart was ready to break. Hugs were given, and she watched as her family left the cemetery.

Mary Jane stepped forward, taking Olive’s arm. “Let’s go home. Come to my house for the night, at least.”

Lydia and Ansel hurried to Olive and spoke up. “Mama, I want to take Olive home with us. She doesn't need to be alone."

“Thank you all for your concern. But I'll go home. I'll be alright, and I have to work tomorrow."

Lydia tightened her hold on her friend. "I insist! You're going home with Ansel and me!"

“You need a leave of absence soon. I’ll see that you get it,” Ansel spoke up.

Lydia and Ansel led Olive from the cemetery while William and Mary Jane followed.

The death of her dear sister grieved her heart, and she wasn’t sure if she would be able to go on in the world now that Lizzie was gone.

 ***

Olive never felt so alone without her sister. Throughout life, she adored Lizzie and depended on every word Lizzie offered. She followed her whenever she could, and despite how she felt about Joplin being full of sin, she followed Lizzie to the city. Olive wanted to look and act like her sister as a young girl. She knew she married Henry because Lizzie had married Daniel Winters.

With Lizzie gone, her life was on the brink of despair. Thinking back over the years, she did not regret following Lizzie's example. Spending time in Joplin with Lizzie had given them quality time together, and their relationship matured through it all. Olive helped care for Lizzie in her time of need, and she stayed at the hospital with her as much as possible.

Olive thought of the times on her parents' farm when she ran to the old tree. Climbing as high as she could, she used her perch to sit and think. She had adored Nellie Bly and wanted to travel the countryside snapping photographs of people living life, writing stories about those people, and seeing her name published in magazines and newspapers.

She wished she were in that tree right now. Thinking about all of the times she helped Lizzie after Dan’s shooting, and was surprised when Lizzie admitted that she had fallen in love with William Madison. Unsurprisingly, the Madison family was closer to the Johnson family than most neighbors. When William asked Lizzie to marry him, Olive was pleased that Lizzie found new happiness.

Olive had never experienced the death of someone close before. Her sister was the first. She found herself going through the days staying busy at work, which helped, but she missed hearing Lizzie's voice, watching her animated talk and cheerful manner.

Tears fell at any time, and she had to let it all out. Despair hurt her heart, and she grieved her favored sister every hour.

One day in late March, William came into the Golden Maiden. Hearing his voice, Olive turned around to greet him when she saw a beautiful girl beside him. The petite girl was young, her face as smooth as cream. Long dark hair was caught in a low bun underneath her large-brimmed felt hat. Her eyes were the color of mossy pools in the park downtown, and a cute smile framed her mouth.

William grabbed Olive and hugged her tightly, swinging her around. “I’ve missed you! How are you?” He finally set her free.

Olive answered him, trying not to stare at the girl. A sudden feeling slid over her. Had he found a girlfriend? It had only been ten months since Lizzie passed. Surely, William was still mourning his wife’s death.

Taking the girl’s hand, William drew her closer to Olive. “I want you to meet Amy Walls.”

Olive dipped her head, barely smiling. Even the girl’s name was pretty. “Hello, Amy.” She took Amy’s hand and noticed the smooth coolness. The girl looked very young, indeed.

William gathered Amy close, his arm scooping her forward and into him. “She’s going to be my wife. We’re getting married tomorrow in Neosho.”

Olive’s face tightened. She tried to swallow the burn in her throat. Sticking her hands into her apron pockets, she retreated a few steps from the couple. She felt her lips tighten and tried to stop the anger. Married! So soon after her sister’s death? How could he do such a dreadful thing?

Silence surrounded them as they stood quietly, surveying each other. Could she handle this tactfully? She was never good at it and usually said the first thing that came to her. But this was William, who softened the hardness that wrapped around her heart. For William Madison, she would muster the kindness he expected from her.

“Well,” Olive said, smiling faintly. “Congratulations, William, I'm a bit surprised, though.”

Amy beamed back and said, “Thank you, Olive. William has told me so much about you that I feel as though we're already friends. I’m sorry about your sister’s death…”

William coughed and let Amy go, then quickly said, “Let’s find a table and eat a bite of lunch.”

Olive lifted a brow, led them to a table for two in the corner with low lighting. “I’ll bring your water while you look at the menu.” She hurried away to gather her thoughts and the ice and water in two glasses.

Standing at the counter, she placed both hands on it for support.

George came around the corner with bread baskets and saw Olive looking forlorn. “Why the sad face?”

“Oh, George, men are dreadful!"

“I believe we've had this conversation before! And we decided that not all men are bad.” When Olive said nothing, George said, “God made men and women the way He did, and who are we to question that?"

Olive swallowed and listened to George’s words. She didn’t scold, embarrass, or hurt his feelings. She knew George was right, although she wouldn’t go as far as to admit it to him right now.

“I know George, I know. I’m just sad. I’ll get over it.” She watched William and Amy gazing intently at each other, smiling, talking, and laughing.

George followed her gaze and nodded. “Ah, Madison’s got a girl, huh?”

“More than a girl,” Olive answered, “she’s going to be his new wife.”

“So that’s what’s eating you. Listen, kid, when are you gonna learn you can’t help what other people do? You’ll have to let this roll off you and move on.” George gripped the breadbasket." People don’t mourn the way they used to. If Madison wants to marry again, maybe you should be happy for him.”

He patted Olive’s arm. “I believe men are more needy than women, and I've noticed men remarry quicker than women do. Probably because of their insecurity. Something to think about.” He moved away, carrying the bread to the domed glass cake stand.

George’s words stung deeply like pinpricks. Even though he was right, she didn't like hearing it. Just let it go. He was right. William was free to do as he chose. If he wanted another wife, she must accept it. By the time she reached William and Amy’s table, her attitude had changed. She served their meal and was cheerful and sweet when William and Amy left the Golden Maiden.

When the phone rang, George called Olive over. "It's for you; a woman wants to speak with you."

Claretta Brier was on the other end of the phone. Her voice portrayed her cheerful attitude. “Olive dear, I do hope you are doing well! I’m so sorry to hear of your dear sister’s death. The baby was sick, and we couldn't attend the funeral. Please forgive us. Did you receive the Hallmark card I sent?”

“Yes, I did. Thank you, Claretta, for the kind thoughts and prayers.”

“I just love the Hallmark cards! The art is very tasteful, and the verses say exactly what a person is thinking. Anyway, I have a proposition for you. Can you talk for a few minutes?”

Olive looked around the Maiden. A few customers were eating, but overall, the place was quiet. Charlotte was outside, probably smoking. “Yes. What do you want to tell me?”

“My cousin, Edgar Adams, owns a restaurant and hotel here in Lakefield and needs help. I know you are experienced. He’s willing to pay someone a pretty penny.” Clara’s lilting voice was persuasive. “I thought of you immediately. And there are lots of houses for rent here in town. But you're welcome to stay with Edward and me while you get settled."

Olive said nothing, taking in what Claretta said. Working in a new restaurant? Moving to Kansas? Leaving Joplin? Her mind whirled with thoughts while Claretta continued to explain about the job and talked a bit about the Kansas town. And the money Mr. Adams offered was out of this world. But Claretta didn't know that she had married Jimmy Maston. Something held her back from telling Claretta, so Olive didn't mention it.

"I'll have to think about it. Can you please give me a few days?"

"Of course, Edgar has had the job open for a while; a few days won't hurt anything!"

And with that, Olive ended the call. 

***        

Not long after, the United States Congress declared war on the Central Powers of Germany and Austria-Hungary. Home Guards were formed, and men were registered for the draft in the United States. War was declared. Despite the stance to stay neutral, most Americans favored Britain, France, and their allies. America loaned large sums of money to the allies and the war effort and had a huge stake in the outcome of the fighting. German Americans hoped the United States would remain neutral.

Olive was at work one stormy day at noon when a terse headache started. She took a powder, but it continued pounding at her temples. She asked to go home, and Mr. Parker let her go after the lunch crowd cleared out. Walking to the trolley stop, she saw Jimmy driving down the street, crossing the railway lines, and parking at an old warehouse on the east side of Wall Street. He and two men hurried inside the building.

Despite the headache, Olive decided to follow her husband. Making her way across the streets, she went to the warehouse. Rows of windows lined one side with steps leading up to a platform. A ramp ran to the street where large bay doors were located.

Olive climbed the steps and stood in front of the double doors. Trying the handle, the doors swung open, and she stepped inside. The room where she stood was small, with a desk, several chairs, and old crates and bottles in a corner with the door at the end of the room. It was quiet on this level, but noise filtered from below.

Olive opened the door, and the noise grew louder. Men were talking; their muffled voices were urgent. The clanking of glass bottles echoed in the dim light of the abandoned warehouse. She sniffed the air and caught burning wood and fermenting corn mash. Just like Pa's still, she thought. Her eyes widened as she knew what she was about to find.

Listening for a moment longer, Olive stepped on the landing and closed the door. Jimmy's voice rang out as he talked with the men. She tiptoed to the end of the landing, where a stairway descended to the level where the men worked.

The late afternoon light cast shadows along the walls of the dimly lit building. Olive peeked over the railing and saw barrels, crates, copper tubing, pots, and old bottles cluttered about. She heard four men talking beside Jimmy.

What were they doing? Did she really need to ask that question? Illegal still operations were the talk of the country. Even Pa had been in trouble a time or two in the hollows making his moonshine. She swallowed hard as she watched the operation.

A large copper pot bubbled over a wood-fired burner, the hiss of steam escaping from the coiled condenser that dripped clear, high-proof liquor into a collection jar. Oil lamps cast a flickering orange glow shadows hovered along the cement walls. Jimmy stood near the still, checking the temperature. Holding a pocket watch in one hand and a lit cigarette in the other, the smoke curled upward into the high ceiling.

"Alright, boys," he said, looking at his partners. "Keep an eye on the pressure. Last thing we need is this thing blowin' up on us." He stood without a jacket, brown suspenders crossed over a white undershirt. A pistol occupied his waistband. Sweat beaded across his forehead. "Tommy, you're doin' a good job!"

A lankly fellow with nervous energy nodded quickly. He was responsible for stoking the fire, ensuring the heat stayed constant. "Got it, Boss," he replied, using a long metal rod to adjust the wood in the burner. "We don't want the revenuers sniffin' around here."

Olive watched Vince working two tables away. He was responsible for labeling the bottles and loading them into crates. "Got another batch ready," Vince said, stacking the bottles into the wooden crate. "Where's this lot headed?"

"Down to the river," Jimmy replied. "There's a boat comin' in from Arkansas. They'll take 'em across state lines. We gotta make sure it's all smooth. My daddy'll have my hide if this goes down wrong."

A man worked feverishly, stacking loaded crates of booze onto the bed of a truck parked by the bay.

As they worked, Olive took a few steps toward the stairs. Her headache was replaced with shock and anger. No wonder Maston had money! He was a bootlegger! The floorboards creaked, alerting Vince, and he looked around the room.

"You hear that?" he asked, pausing his work. "Thought I heard something."

Maston waved him off. "It's nothing, Vinnie. Keep your head down and focus on your job. We gotta get this done before nightfall."

The work continued in a steady rhythm punctuated by the occasional cough or grunt. The tension was palpable, and the risk of discovery was ever-present. Olive debated what to do. Should she confront Jimmy now? She didn't relish fighting in front of the other men. Her head pounded, and the headache returned in full force.

She knew what Vince was capable of doing. She should never trust the other men, either. And now Jimmy! How far should she trust him? He kept this business enterprise a secret from her, so trust did not exist in their relationship.

She backtracked and left the warehouse without anyone knowing what she had witnessed.