matilda cook from fever 1793 lucille cook

My face looked back at me from the thick glass.

I looked past the apple seller to the haberdasher’s window behind him. I’d get work as a scullery maid, or move into the orphanage and do laundry. If Mother was dead, I’d have to sell the coffeehouse, or have the orphans court sell it for me. Part of me did not want to know what had happened. I looked over a selection of bruised apples. What now? Should I travel to the Ludingtons’ farm? Wait in town a few more days? My shopping was done and I had questioned everyone about Mother, but still I lingered, caught between wanting to leave and wanting to stay until I could sort out the thoughts battling in my head. Nell, Robert, and William deserved the best.

I was so vigilant that I tasted several pieces. I had to taste the candy, of course, to make sure it was not stale. Though my basket was full, I found room for a sack of hard candy and a small loaf of sugar. I paid very low prices for peaches, carrots, and beets. Epler had anything to do with it.Īll the farmers were cheerful and generous. The news would be halfway to New York by nightfall if Mrs. Epler said, bobbing her head up and down. But please, ask folks if they’ve seen her.”

Epler, I’ll be fine.” I unwrapped her arms from me. “You poor child!” She pulled me close and squeezed me hard, her head barely as high as my shoulder. Here, two fat hens for you and your family. You look just like your mother, she works so hard.

Matilda cook from fever 1793 lucille cook