Spangled to Death, page 23
Dear Mrs. President,
Here is the recipe which you requested for Oyster fritters.
Mrs. Hamilton
Aaron glanced up and said, “The rest is all ingredients.” He placed the letter into the envelope and set it on the pile. “People did send her recipes, didn’t they?”
“That is a huge possibility as to why the sampler is now hanging on the wall in the Hamilton House,” Grandma said. “She embroidered for other people and not just for herself.”
“Yep. That’s how she was able to build everyone’s trust and assist her husband in passing bills. She used her bipartisan skills to the nth degree.” I opened my envelope and removed the letter. “This is weird."
There is a thing
which in the night
Is seldom used
but in the light.
It serves the female
maiden crew
The ladies and
the good wives too.
They used to take it
by the hand
And then it would
uprightly stand.
And to a hole
they it apply
Where by its goodwill
it will die.
It spends, go out
but still within
It leaves its moisture
thick and thin.
“This is one of the strangest things I’ve ever read.” I gave it to Aaron. “What do you think?”
“I think it might be the answer we’re looking for.”
“Does it go with the wickless candle?” I yawned, not knowing what to think.
Chapter twenty-five
Chapter Twenty-five
I stood in the middle of the showroom and spun in a slow circle. Dorrie had certainly decorated it properly, and all in good taste too, plus keeping with the ambiance of the White House. A small table had been assembled which held a facsimile to the National Tree outside on the lawn. Another small addition was the inside tree featuring the various branches of the armed forces, which kept in the spirit of the current White House occupants. The two displays were tasteful, and I admired how nicely they fit with the other decorations.
“Dolley, it’s our secret. Did you bury Polly in a cemetery?” I leaned in closer to the Madison dolls in case a flash of knowledge might pass between us. “You’re pretty tight-lipped.” I took a deep breath. At the Wilson White House, I stopped to say, “I bet you two kept your share of secrets because of the President’s illness.”
I continued around the room adjusting dolls and furnishings. The front door opened and a customer entered. Short and plump, the woman reminded me of Mary Lincoln.
“Hello. How may I help you?”
“I’m interested in the war years during the Lincoln administration.” She gave me that cherry pie smile. “You see, I impersonate the First Lady and would love one of your houses.”
“I thought you looked like Mrs. Lincoln.” I smiled back. “Come right here.” I waved her over. “This is the house you want to see.”
“It’s beautiful. She did a lovely job of decorating, didn’t she?” She ooohed and ahhed. “Which room is the Lincoln bedroom?”
I pointed it out to her. “This room is where little Willy died.”
“Oh, my.” I noticed tears filling her eyes. “I’ll buy it.”
“You take your time looking at it while I get my helper to load the house for you. He’s just in the back room.” I began walking away, stopped to look back. “I’ll be right back.”
“Okay.”
When I returned, she stood by the counter and I rang up the purchase. It wasn’t long before Max emerged with the needed boxes while Dorrie entered with the rest. When they’d reentered and we were alone, I said, “Thank you, you two.”
“Anytime.” Max grinned. “This place is starting to hop, isn’t it?”
“Word is getting out,” Dorrie said.
“You two will be able to take over when I leave for our honeymoon. Grandma can help out too.”
“We’ll be fine,” Max replied. “Marie can bring some of her cookies.”
“Next Saturday, you can close early so you can make it to the wedding. We sent the invitations over the weekend, so you should get them today. Kind of late, but, well—that’s how it happened.”
“We’ll probably close at one,” Dorrie said. “I have to get dressed and so does Brad.”
“Sure.” I drew in a deep breath and suddenly felt very tired. “I’ve got wedding errands to run, so I’m taking off. You’ll be able to close up?” I glanced at Max.
“Will do. No problem.”
“Thanks.” I grabbed my bag, and slipped on my coat, heading out the door. Grandma texted me as I jumped into the car, requesting I meet her at the caterer’s. I started the car and began driving over the bridge down toward Hiawatha Avenue, eventually meeting with Ingrid.
The week was a whirlwind of errands with the proverbial last minute planning. Few people were invited, but we had to meet with the police plus the attorney to make sure the cufflinks transference went without a hitch. By Thursday, I was a wreck and very happy the wedding was in two days.
Aaron and I decided to have a small dinner party the evening before the groom’s dinner, which was the following night. We invited Dorrie, Brad, Maggie, and Tim for a small dinner at Aaron’s house. I was giddy with excitement, but I also wanted to get a personal take on Brad.
When I heard Aaron’s voice, I ran over to meet our guests at the door.
“Hi. Thanks for the invitation,” Dorrie said, walking inside. “Have you met Brad? I think you have, Liv, but not Aaron.”
“Glad to meet ya.” Brad thrust out his right arm. I couldn’t help but notice the large disc earrings he wore, and around his neck was a heavy cross. I wondered why I hadn’t noticed his whole appearance the day he’d chauffeured Jackie, but he never entered the store.
“We haven’t really met. I only saw you opening and closing doors for Jackie.” As I shook Brad’s hand, I bit my lip instead of wincing. The man’s grip was tighter and stronger than a lumberjack’s. Standing dwarfed beside him, I felt like I was Little Orphan Annie and he was Paul Bunyan. “Come on in.” We stepped aside, and at the same time, Maggie and Tim appeared in the doorway.
“Where’s the beer?” Tim started for the kitchen.
“I’m right behind. Coming?” Aaron asked Brad.
“One more night remaining before we’re married,” I said. “Did you know there was some kind of bet going on between Grandpa and that Hank who used to live a block away?”
“Really?” Dorrie said. “Like what?”
“Yes, they evidently made some kind of date or bet that Grandma would leave Grandpa for Hank back in high school, since they were old school chums.” I grinned. “Obviously, Hank lost.”
“That’s too funny.” Maggie chuckled. “They adore each other.”
I started talking about my wedding dress, getting the holiday finery tomorrow, setting up everything, and all the flowers we had ordered. I felt overwhelmed at all there was left to do, but both Maggie and Dorrie volunteered their services.
The wedding was planned for four o’clock in two days’ time with the reception immediately following. I glanced at my house and realized my grandparents were probably strolling through the interior, making sure everything was in its place.
A rented movie brought an end to the evening with our guests exiting soon after it was over.
It felt good to be alone once again with my honey, kissing each other as we climbed the stairs to his bedroom.
***
The morning brought sunshine and a promise of warmer temps, even a possible thawing. We both got up early and went over to help my grandparents.
The day began with the caterer arriving with extra chairs and folding trays to scatter around the house, which Grandpa and Aaron supervised. Grandma busied herself making sure everything was done to perfection.
“What are you looking at?” I stood beside her, staring at the vases of pink, red, and white roses on the dining room table.
“Trying to decide which vase to put where. They’re so lovely. So very beautiful.” She smiled and gave me a big hug. “You’re going to be very happy and make a lovely bride. I can tell.”
We headed into the living room, arm in arm. The beautiful greenery and mistletoe hung over the doorways, combined with the added holiday decor they took my breath away. It was all so lovely.
“Jessica’s going to want to rehearse.” I looked out the window and noticed Grandpa and Aaron were positioning electrical cords to connect with angels, which lined the front sidewalk. “It’s going to be so beautiful. I’m so glad we’re getting married here. Thank you.”
“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Grandma said.
The day flew by preparing for the wedding the following day. The keyboard was positioned in the TV room, and the open bar was set up in the office. The dining room sparkled with the addition of draped mini-lights circling the greenery. The caterer brought the cheesecakes. She returned several more times with pans and the food service warming cart, which was arranged near the kitchen table.
Jessica began rehearsing just as Maggie sent me a text message reading How r u do n. I sent one back, Go n crazy. I slipped the phone back into my pocket.
Once everything was set up in the dining and living room, and sparkling with decorations and lights, we took turns getting ready for the evening’s dinner. Grandpa was taking us to a new restaurant out in Burnsville, The Forest. The menu was quite pricey, but Grandpa was treating. We had a delightful meal—duck under glass, steak, trout—and of course I had to have lobster. Silly of me, I know, but I love it.
I spent the night with Aaron. I had a hair appointment in the morning. Aaron and another officer planned to accompany Mr. Nye when they drove to the airport to pick up Mr. Strowbridge from Montpelier.
“Busy day.”
We kissed before going our separate ways.
At eight-thirty, Maggie messaged me, Car died u pik me up. I wasn’t surprised. She always seemed to forget to shut off her headlights or else would get flat tires. The kids in her neighborhood were mischievous and would throw nails in the alleyway. I responded, “Ok.”
I quickly finished dressing. Maggie and I had not only booked hairstyling appointments but also facials with makeup application. Our appointments would take all morning. Pictures started at two o’clock. It was already nine.
With my bag in hand, I ran out the door. I honked as I parked outside Maggie’s house. In seconds, she was out the door and rushing toward the car.
“I’m so excited!” She slammed the car door shut. “Aren’t you?”
“I’m ready to split.” I was, too. My heart leapt every time I thought of Aaron and taking the marriage vows.
I drove toward Forty-Second Avenue and Thirty-Eighth Street, parking behind Jeanette’s Hairnet. I glanced at Maggie as I unbuckled my seatbelt.
“Time to get remade.” I climbed from the car.
The morning zipped by, and I felt like a beauty queen after the facial. I loved the light-pink tones and soft blue shadow she’d given me. My hair was styled in a French braid with soft ringlets framing my face, which fell on my neck. My red hair sparkled under the sun that reflected in the mirror as she held it high for me to view the back.
“Thank you. It’s lovely.” I turned toward Maggie. Her style was much the same only without all the ringlets. Also, of course, not the red hair. “You’re beautiful.”
“You, too. When Aaron kisses you, he’ll never let you go.”
“I hope so.” I glanced at the clock. “Aaron should be at my house.”
After paying, we drove toward my house, but I parked my car behind Aaron’s, so Mr. Nye’s driver could park in my spot. He’d soon arrive with Mr. Strowbridge. I hoped there wasn’t a problem. His flight was scheduled to arrive at ten; it was now noon. Just as I started walking across the lawn, a Cadillac parked in the street. The driver got out and opened the door. I walked over to meet Mr. Strowbridge while Maggie continued to the house.
“Hello,” I said and held out my hand once he’d climbed from the vehicle. “I’m Olivia Anderson, the person who contacted your offices.”
“Oh, yes. Mr. Strowbridge.” We shook hands. “I am excited to meet you in person, as well as your grandfather, especially since you may be the caretakers of the famous cufflinks.” He smiled at me. “Where’s your grandfather?”
The back door opened, allowing Grandpa to step out. “Olivia? Maggie’s wondering where you are. Come on! You must get dressed.”
“Oh, dear. He’s just as nervous as I am.” I chuckled.
“Hi, Mr. Nye,” Aaron said. He stood right behind Grandpa. “I’m the groom. You’re beautiful.” He kissed me.
“Do you have the items?” I asked.
“They’re right with me.” Mr. Nye patted his briefcase. “We picked them up after we left the airport, then came right here. Where are the guards?
“They’re outside, keeping watch,” Aaron said.
Crossing the yard, I hurried into the house.
It was now eleven, and Ronnie was due to arrive at one to take pictures.
“Maggie!” Glancing around the meticulously decorated room, I marveled at its beauty. The wonderful scent of roses and pine filled the air. I took a deep breath and smiled.
“Up here!”
I dashed up the stairs, knowing I’d find Maggie in my old bedroom. I burst inside, then we gave each other a big hug. “The big day! Finally!” We jumped up and down, holding each other.
“Next, it’ll be me and Tim.” Maggie smiled. “I hope, anyway.”
“I’ll make sure you get the bouquet when I throw it.” I began removing my clothes. I snagged a ringlet, which caused me to wince. “Ouch.”
Grandma’s version of “Here Comes the Bride” echoed as she climbed the stairs. I peeked out before opening the door completely.
“Where are the men?”
“They’re all over at Aaron’s. They’ll dress there. That’s where Mr. Nye and Strowbridge will stay until the wedding begins.” Grandma entered the room. “The two guards are with them. You might know who they are since they work with Aaron and Tim.”
“Good. Is he wearing the cufflink set throughout the ceremony or only for pictures?” I slipped my dress over my head, shimmying as Grandma helped pull it down.
“Throughout the ceremony, but he'll remove them immediately afterward. Aaron will make an excuse to head for the bathroom, and someone will be with him at all times.”
“Let me fasten your pearl buttons, and then Maggie can do the train.” Grandma smiled at me and gave me a kiss. “You’re as beautiful as your mother. She was lovely in this dress, but you’re even lovelier.” Tears filled her eyes. “I’m so proud of you.” She choked back tears as she began fastening the buttons.
“I wish Mom was here. I wish my dad was walking me down the aisle,” I said. I blew my nose and wiped my eyes, but I knew they wouldn’t dry out until much later. I wanted my parents. I also knew I must change my thoughts or I wouldn’t make it through the ceremony without breaking down.
After Grandma finished my buttons, I helped Maggie into her dress. She looked gorgeous. The deep red fabric made her blue eyes look like the sky. Grandma scooted over and I zipped the back of her dress for her. Right up until picture taking time, we continued primping and fussing over each other.
I began singing, “What a Wonderful World” but had forgotten some of the words. I thought of Mitch Miller and the bouncing ball. That tickle in the back of my mind began once again. When I started singing, “True Love” by Bing Crosby, causing me to picture the bouncing ball, a smile crossed my lips, I felt as if I was on to something.
I knew I had to find Aaron if only to see those cufflinks.
Just before our photo session, I reached for Aaron’s hands to hold them, which gave me a chance to glimpse at the cufflinks. The sapphires waved like a flag, the diamonds sparkled like stars, and there were thirteen. I counted on each one. The four ruby-red stripes reminded me of the four-sided strawberries on the samplers. I wanted to say something but didn’t dare.
“I’ve got it.” I thought of the bouncing strawberries and the four specifically placed motifs on each sampler. The flag on Grandma’s sampler stood for what? I thought of “The Star-Spangled Banner” when it was penned, and the history behind it. The flag waving after the fighting at Fort McHenry. Francis Scott Key witnessing the bombardment from inside of a Royal Navy ship in Chesapeake Bay during the battle in the War of 1812. The rose stood for the love of our national anthem. I was uncertain what the fourth sampler corner meant. A tombstone? How strange. Or, not? However, what was the third corner motif? A candle? The wickless candle had to symbolize the passing from one president to another. Or what else? Passing of the torch? It didn’t make sense, but I knew I was heading in the right direction for solving the secret mystery.
Tears filled my eyes once again.
“You’re not gonna believe this,” I whispered. My heart almost beat out of my chest when I kissed him. “Don’t forget to ask Strowbridge what’s written on the brooch gadroon.”
“I will, babe.” Aaron wrapped his arms around me.
“And show him the letters.”
“Gotcha.”
The photographer took several more pictures.
Jessica started playing Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” Dorrie and Brad arrived first, seating themselves but they sat near the back. Mikal arrived. Max arrived with a girlfriend—and they sat near the front. The other guests were arriving, and before long the seats were filled. I looked around for the two guards and finally spotted them. Mr. Nye and Strowbridge weren’t in view, so I suspected they were still at Aaron’s. Grandma took her seat, which gave Jessica a cue to begin the prelude to the “Wedding March.” Aaron and Tim stepped up to the front.
My heart skipped, causing me to lean into Grandpa, who took my arm and cradled me like a baby girl. Maggie, Grandpa, and I stepped outside, and the “Wedding March” began.
