William

Amanda I just need to put in three more pins and the hem will be set. Take a look in the mirror and see what you think before I put the hem in. Oh my gracious,this gown is stunning. Emily you do such beautiful work. Have you thought about opening a small dress shop here in town? Oh my, Amanda do you think I could. Of course you could my dear and I would be glad to lend you the funds to get established. What about Henry who would help him at the bank? My dear do not worry about our Henry he will be just fine. If you like I will speak to him about the matter. Please not a word Amanda until I have time to think upon the matter and to pray about it. As you wish my dear. Speaking of prayer, have you met the new minister? No I have not had that pleasure. Will he be attending the dance? I am sure he will since the dance and box lunch auction are being held to purchase the new bell for the church. Then I guess I will meet him there. Now to set the hem in your dress and finish mine and Victoria's dresses.
Did you choose the pretty red material that we looked at in the store? Yes I did and I also choose the pretty white ruffled lace to be used as the trim at the neck and sleeves. I am afraid I spent alot of money. Do not fret my dear when we get that dress shop up and running you will no longer have to worry about money. Amanda, As I said we will have to wait and see.
Would you like to see Victoria's dress. Of course, but where is that child, she is so quite. I forgot to tell you Henry took her for a walk. They enjoy spending time together. That's wonderful! Now please show me the child's new frock.
Oh what a sweet little dress. I very much like the pink fabric you choose. The smocking you did on the dress and the lacy white shawl you made to go over it are so pretty. I also made this pink bonnet ,trimed in eyelet lace. I wanted to put the scraps of fabric to good use. Emily you are a very talented woman. I have never seen a seamtress of your quality.
Tell me what are you cooking for your box lunch?
I thought I would make roast beef sandwiches on fresh baked sourdough bread with a horseraddish dressing. A green salad with a rosemary herb dressing. Then I will end with a boston cream pie and a container of freshly whipped cream. For something to drink ,maybe some fruited tea. Sounds mouthwatering. Makes me want some roast beef now. Amanda you are so funny!
I hear Henry and Victoria coming. We must get home as I have so much to do before the dance tomorrow evening.
Victoria please stand still so I can finish dressing you hair and put the ribbons in. Your cruls have a mind of their own today. Mom I am so excited! Henry has promised to dance with me. I know my sweet,but I have to finish with you so that I can fix my own hair and slip into my dress.
Mom, hurry Henry is driving up. I am coming dear. Please come in Henry.
After entering the room Henry's mouth fell open and he stood motionless. Henry, Henry Emily repeated, is something wrong? No my darling you take my breath away. You are beyond words beautiful. Sir you are too kind. No Emily I am not, you are a vision of lovelyness.
What about me Henry? Dear little one you are as pretty as a picture. Victoria reached up to hug Henry's neck. With that they all got into the buggy to go into town.
When Henry entered the Church hall with the two ladies upon his arms a hush fell over the room. You could hear the whispers among the ladies about the beauty of the seamtress and her daughter. As they made their way through the crowd the gentlemen patted Henry on the back. He felt so proud!
As they were nearing Amanda they could see she was engaged in conversation with a young man,they had not met before. Oh my dears you all look simply stunning. Thank-you Mother; Henry said. Henry I would like to introduce you to William. As the two men shake hands, Amanda tells Henry that William is the new minister. So glad to meet you sir. May I introduce you to Miss Emily and her daughter Victoria. As Emily extends her hand William bows to her and kisses it. I am so charmed to meet you my lady. Emily not knowing how to respond ,blushes,and withdraws her hand. Henry not to happy with the situation puts his arm around Emily. I take it this pretty young lady must be your daughter. Yes, this is Victoria. How are you tonight Miss Victoria? I am fine sir,Victoria answers.
Emily you must go put you lunch on the table and take you place with the other ladies. Miss Emily if I may be so bold. Your lunch smells so good, is it by chance roast beef. Yes it is. That is my favorite. I must excuse myself for now as I need to greet and meet our other members. I will see you when the bidding begins. Henry turns to his Mother in a very rough voice and asks what does he mean.? Well my dear son it would appear that William likes roast beef and is prepared to bid for our Emily's box lunch.