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Essie Summers
Spring
September
Spring in september
In the Romanian Cornel Romoanu
Collection "He and She"
- 12 BUCHAREST,
1993
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CHAPTER I
Suzan Carew walks through Canterbury. Listen fascinated
old cathedral bells in the tranquil atmosphere of twilight. Summer
was wonderful, but had already begun to shorten the days and
green hills were covered with frost. Coming fall. Coming soon
surrounding plain copper would become a symphony.
The thought suddenly wore another Canterbury far hemisphere
South; a settlement founded in the nineteenth century by settlers
English. There, in New Zealand, September was different.
In Christchurch, at this time, the River Avon is adorned
Narcissus; then was among the cherry blossom. Meadow is
covered with white flowers, yellow, blue ... In hilly, calves
soon to be born that already frolicked on pasture. Cows ftau
always later in Christchurch. The snows of the mountains were so
close! But more than anything, Susannah liked Larchwood Vale.
Everyone loved them were established there, besides her parents, of course. It Was
a true cradle of their family. For now her parents lived
other lands. But soon, when they retire, they will return
at home.
As a child, he had followed all over their wanderings. Great man
business, her father traveled incessantly. The fact that it strengthened and
Many girls love to Larchwood. Fortunately, every two or
three years longer make a stop there. Recently, Chris
Carew was sent to Canada. Surely this will be the last
his post. So far, Suzan him continually. He was secretary. But
was suddenly seized with the desire to fly with her own wings.
In addition, Stephanie and Brent Morley, some friends from New
Zealand, had come to spend the holidays in England. Then,
Susannah had suggested his parents to stay with them to show them the region.
Lovely girl lived two months. In love with plain
English. He understood very well all three. But when Stephanie

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other dishes brought about Canterbury and their friends
common, Suzan felt gripped by a strange melancholy. Without
wants her friend opened an old wound, carefully hidden, but so
sensitive yet ...
Imperceptibly dark. The stars began to shine in the sky
Clear. It was time to return to the hotel. Without hurry, paused
a moment in front of a church which was already familiar ... This was
baptized in the sixteenth century, the great writer Christopher Marlowe.
Another time, he read his poems Suzan thrilled. Especially one disturb
Deeply: The poet spoke of the love between a girl and a shepherd in
New Zealand mountains ... But that was an old story! Since then
Suzan tried to forget The moving poetry. Crossed more
roads and met many men. But none disturb the
that pastor there, in the southern hemisphere ... He shook his head irritably.
Why leave comprised of nostalgia? There was fragile girl
then. Now was twenty-four years and much more
experience. He shrugged and hurried Stephanie and Brent
breath a sigh of relief when they saw the end coming.
- You gave us a little nervous, 'said Brent. Knowing yourself into
These streets after dark ... Come a moment in our room.
We'll make a proposal. I ordered tea and sandwiches. I Guess
that hungry!
Suzan, or Shanna as a calling her friends thought of a
change of program. No doubt her companions had decided to
visit another city ... But it was not about that. Stephanie fall
straight to the point.
- Listen, my dear. In a few days you should go in
Canada. But your father seems very happy with his new secretary. Of
Why did not you come with us in New Zealand? Your grandmother, Clotilde,
apparently organizing a large family reunion. They'll be there all
relatives, friends and all i would love you to be there to help her to
organization, as usual.
Suzan not thought his ears.
- But last meeting was just five years ago! For aught I know,
These meetings are held every ten years, is not it?
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- Unfortunately, Brent murmured, Clotilde would leave us
until then ... It's very old. Only she remembered
ancient legends, the story of the pioneers. You know how it happens: the
Every time there is someone who was not at previous meetings and
all want to hear the story of the past. This time it's a relative
removed to write a book about Alaska. Located in New
Zealand with some business and want to take the opportunity as it

meet. Then Clotilde thought ...

Her voice trailed off. There was a long silence. Bandu and tea, Suzan their
remembered the last meeting of the "friends pioneers" as saying
Grandma. How much work to prepare everything! Fortunately, Morgan,
Stephanie brother, had shoulder with her. In the meantime, John,
feeling neglected, is consoled by her cousin in Tahiti. Were
often seen together. The situation became increasingly uncomfortable.
Morgan, with his usual gentleness, helped her to get out of this impasse.
Allowed him to part with John while saving appearances
and the small community he found peace.
Despite the enormity properties and enormous distances
each separated housing, isolation linkage between the
three neighbors: Larchwood, Forester and Hervington-Blair. Three families
entrepreneurs founded by three men who had befriended on
ship during the long journey. Wilfrid Hervington-Blair was
The second voyage to New Zealand. He returned to England to
looking girlfriend. But he had a bitter disappointment. Without it, the chosen
married with another heart ... suffered greatly. In his desperation
decided to settle far from settlements and
inaccessible to the chosen land beyond the mountains. It
established the inhospitable plains of Canterbury, followed by fellow
travel, Forester and Gerard Eldread Larchwood.
All three managed to give this beauty arid plains
pastoral. This was followed by other generations have the same objective. Little
little temperance and thrift welfare replaced the former. But
three families remained united by indestructible bonds. John was
a Forester, Stephanie and her brother were Hervington-Blair.
Suzan would soon meet again all these faces
familiar. He decided to open play.
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- I come. But I'm afraid. Everyone will think I'm back
Fran because ... gone.
Stephanie looked surprised.
- No I have not thought about it. After all, thou hast forsaken John
and not vice versa. There he left you for Fran. You've abandoned
Morgan. It is something else! Too bad that did your story
lasted. I would like to be my sister-in-law. Obviously, I understand. Between you
and Morgan all over, John is a widower ... People might
to misinterpret your return. Do not worry. You will not be
hard to put things right and it will be the worse for mouth
bad.
Suzan laughed. But soon, his face clouded again.
- Do not write to your mother right now. I would like to me
think.
- Come on, Stephanie asked, but did you intend to change your mind?

Please come with us! It would be formidable, is not it, dear?

Her husband warmly approved. Suzan said nothing.
- Realize, Stephanie continues. In a week we are
there. Unfortunately, Morgan will not be there to greet us ...
- ... And why, pray? Suzan asked idly.
- Work in New-Hebrides islands.
Companion did not come to believe.
- Morgan! In the middle of the Pacific? What the hell do there? And why
I have not talked about it?
- Because you asked. I do not like talking about
he!
- You're right. In any case, the news is amazing. And grandmother not
told me anything!
- Our dear Aunt Clotilde is not too good memory. Of
at a time rather forget.
Shanna formally accepted the explanation, but not a word thought.
The old lady had always been a woman with head on his shoulders.
- What does Morgan there?
- Teaches agronomy in college. Dan Cairns keeps place
field. Working there for so long!
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Brent's tense expression had not dropped Susannah. He seemed very
embarrassed. Why? The two hid them there anything? It was not possible! It
decided to change the subject.
- How is John Forester? It must be hard after death
Fran. Fortunately they had no children ... A retains the old
nanny, is not it?
- Yes, it takes care of the house. It's a treasure, you know! Her husband is
dealing with garden and helps to firm. John seems to have recovered
misfortune. Finally, it is difficult to know the truth. It's so dark in it!
He wants to engage in politics.
It was clear that things had changed. Another time John did not think
than the country's ... remember the happy days of childhood.
Several times her father had been sent to distant countries not
English schools existed. Then little Shanna was committed
grandparents, where spent long stays. Since then it
changed much, as apparently happened with John.
He remembered Fran. In a flash He saw his golden hair, eyes
blue that seemed to reflect the vastness of the sky ... There were two years
when dead ...
Someday Martine Griffiths told him:
- E formidable how well you get along with Fran. Obviously, there's nothing
to reproach: you left John and was free to do what he wants. But you have
could be offended seeing it so quickly consoled,
and just in front of your cousin.

Shanna broke out in laughter. He felt relieved. Nobody

guessed the truth. All believed in her sudden love for
Morgan ...
Morgan knew that John and Shanna were everything to each other. However,
seeing unhappiness face when her boyfriend turn to another, not
SOVA. Only in his chivalry Shanna proposed to simulate a
connection between them. That way I could part with John and to
keep pride. She accepted gratefully.
John reacted as needed. He had the tact not to show
Shanna joy when he broke the news. Not much has to heart the role
lover left and waited for departure "pioneers friends"
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to make public engagement with Fran. That way, the honor was saved
for everyone.
Fran's father came from Tahiti to the meeting. That is
young rushed marriage to take advantage of his presence. Shanna has
remained several months in Larchwood. The parents were away in Asia
a complicated task. They preferred to know home safely.
Then good things unwittingly entangled Clotilde: had entrusted
Morgan's property management. She was convinced that it will take
marriage to Shanna. It was therefore natural that he should take the lead
affairs. Suzan had hoped that he would refuse. After all, their engagement
was only a facade. But to her surprise, Morgan did not
proceeded as expected, but has put on sale office
veterinary and came to settle in Larchwood Vale.
When Suzan made known her surprise, he replied
right away. He looked with a cynical expression.
- And why would I be denied, Suzan Carew? I agreed to this post
miracle.
- But ... You seemed so concerned about your job ...
- I was. Then I felt the call earth. It's great to
My son the ...
Suzan startled otherwise. She said "my field" ...
- You become so calculated? he asked softly. Do you know the
way.
Morgan outlined a cold smile.
- Do not know me very well.
- Now I realize. However, what will happen with Blair Peaks?
Your father always thought that you shall take place. But now if you like
to go back to earth ...
- Brent Blair handles Peaks long. There feels
home. And as Stephanie. Do not worry! Do not give up on me
in the field. What is mine remains mine! But since Brent
and Stephanie were installed there, offer your grandmother fell pat. To
Larchwood Vale will not be far from the land of my ancestors.

Suzan was troubled. I always believed a man Morgan

honest. When he proposed his engagement "pretense" was
convinced that only do so gently. It was wrong? It Was
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It devised a plan thoroughly? To be thought
taking her in marriage will become the master domain? He had decided to
clarify quickly. Soon a broken engagement and
went to meet his parents in Bangkok.
However, Morgan has not resumed work at the veterinarian's office. Her
Larchwood installed at Vale ... Finally, after you left
loser. But why not take grandma wrote anything about it? But that does not
have no importance now. On the contrary, this way will
be easier when he returns. Maybe Morgan was going to
stay there on. Suzan not yet spoken to anyone about
that. Dared not. But now everything had changed.
- Here's a problem less, she said relieved. I could suffer
We observe the world on all three, wondering who you choose: on
Morgan or John. I'll finally be able to live the way I want and
I install in my peaceful home at Larchwood Vale. For more
while I'm dreaming of art as a grandmother did so
time. Mom will be happy! She always wanted to see me
placed there.
He looked at Stephanie, but it turned her eyes. Again, have
a strange feeling: Her friend was hiding something.
It was all in September. But autumn gives way to spring.
Their journey at the end of the world was running out. Through the window
aircraft, Canterbury plains looked like a chessboard that the
greenery bordered by the blue waters of the Pacific. In the distance,
mountains seemed tiny.
The plane glides to the runway. A lightweight and impact
wheels touched the ground. Suzan was extremely happy: returned to
Finally home! It was early morning. They had to linger in
city some time. Before departure Brent and ordered a new car
had to go to the garage to pick it up. Not long after entering the
possession of her employment on Highway South. They passed Rakaia River
and they took west to the vast pastures. The asphalt road gave way
country road which enveloped in a cloud of dust. But this shortcoming
was fully compensated by picturesque landscape. Far in the distance,
snowy peaks of the mountains if I called in a mysteriously and
were as green hills that rose to their foot look like
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thumbnails. On pasture, calves frolicked lively. Now there was
no risk of any snow delayed the stretching and everywhere
white hue, to put their lives in danger. Spring sun

glint irrigation channels that would remove drought

in the summer. Everywhere was an orgy of colorful flowers:
intoxicating perfume hyacinth, narcissus golden petals. In the apple orchards
the flower looked like huge bridal bouquets.
They saw passing a majestic white gaggle going swinging
the river. Nice looking Shanna mountains which I loved, as if
would have found some old friends: Mount Hutt, Mount Somers,
two peaks Ponces ... The road climb hills. They approached
three areas. Soon they see the white cliffs of residence
from Larchwood Vale. Blair Hill House was the farthest
of the three. But already the trees planted by the hand of man is
differed from those in the forest. Forester now crossed Gorge.
They walked on the way to the mansion. Shanna watched occurs
Slowly the great stone gate. He stood stunned. Another time could
to look without emotion. Now, her future was tied Forester
Gorge, this idyllic home alongside her beloved grandmother. But
all these were a thing of the past.
They entered the gate. On a black horse the rider was waiting sober: it was
John. Brent slow, then stop the machine while John dismount. He
open rear door, Shanna was helping to lower the car
hugged and kissed her on the cheek, whispering,
- Welcome home, beautiful adventuress!
Stephanie and kissed and Brent.
- I saw the car when I was on the hill, he explains
cheerful. Clotilde is very excited. He asked me to greet you. Of
when he received the letter announcing the return Shanna no longer
is restless.
Letter Stephanie had an idea. It is thought that in this way would
able to avoid too strong a shock for grandmother. Or had wanted in the first
place to announce the return of his former fianc John's?
The thought had not smiled Susannah.
- I do not want to wait to do it, 'she said sec. On the road! Hope
see you soon, John!
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- I come to you tonight. It's a meeting of the clans. Your parents
already there, Stephanie. Can not wait to tell as
journey.
Shanna news that made them happy. I loved Stephen and Mary
Hervington-Blair. Were still so young! Yet had at least
seventy years. Mary had children very late. For the couple,
first childbirth was the beginning of a new youth.
They passed under the arch of carved stone laid his shadow as
a blessing on the field. On the left the old house beech
began to display their fresh leaves. One of a kind locust
particularly in Australia, kept them company. Loaded with large flowers

yellow, like a golden globe.

Shanna was overwhelmed by memories. One day, during the short
engagements, Morgan had said:
- These flowers have the color of your eyes, Suzan. There are no brown
nor green, but are ...
John does not ever had such a compliment. But for
to describe his eyes Fran, Fran's hair, have a repertoire
unpredictable ...
Fran was so beautiful! Her eyes were blue sapphires,
his hair was red gold ... Otherwise, the two girls were like much.
There were also two identical photographs in which one overexposed
More sun lost its freshness.
But what good would ransack the past? Shanna was now much
May tempered. For five years had led a life cheerful and
events, accumulating experience. He was courted by many
men. The only dark spot in this picture, during these years,
was the removal of the native land.
No, nothing had changed! The park was so beautiful. Stream
same chorus lively hum of polished stones. Willow
Weeping and now resembled a small hut. Cackling hens
severe as once ... Beyond the poplars, stretched a sumptuous
colorful carpet: with purple rounds of Clotilda was still there,
incensing the spring air. Camellias were also blooming.
The car circled the house and stopped near the terrace. A figure fragile and
burdened years of the stairs waiting for them.
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Suzan out of the car and hurried to Clotilde that contained
in her arms.
- How beautiful you are, my dear! You learned all the secrets
European elegance. If I think about it you always had
so chic! Even in jeans you seem to be a queen feel as heart
My old beat faster. I'm so happy to see you again!
And this costume you feel great! Has the same color as the leaves
phage. Mysterious color of your eyes, my child.
- Come on, Grandma! You make me blush, shy girl protested. I have
wearing this costume to make you a happy, you know! But do not
deceive so easily, smiling sprightly added. It will not take too
long to pass the usual attire: jeans.
The old woman's eyes filled with tears. And Shanna and I could feel you
dampen her excitement.
- Starving, said the girl in a cheerful tone, to chase
embarrassment. Tea is ready?
- Of course, my dear. Let's go into the living room!
She took her arm and walked along the old woman. Large room
was as welcoming. Large windows with stained glass windows were open. One

light breeze swell purple curtains. In contrast with the outside room
was quite dark. So Shanna saw them not to start
Stephen and Mary only. Then, as his eyes adjusted to the
Morgan penumbra discover it.
Triangle was once again assembled.
He came to Suzan and caressed his cheek fresh.
- God! exclaimed the girl surprised. I had the impression that I
visions. I thought the New Hebrides.
- We stayed there two months. But I came back for the period
birth of lambs. You know I would not miss this for nothing
world.
- How so, Stephanie, resumed Suzan, you told me that Morgan
Larchwood left forever?
- Not at all. You misunderstood. I knew it all here, but ...
Not knowing what to believe, Susan turned to Brent. He
witnessed their discussion in England. But he backed up his wife.
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- Only you know Morgan. He could not stay long
Pacific islands. There are not sheep!
- Do not know our friend so fond of growth
sheep, young nonchalantly replied. After all, for many
years of the veterinary profession preferred; John instead always lived
alpine pastures ...
- John began to change, Morgan resumed coldly. He
sheep left to enter politics. And not to mention the
other concerns ... more frivolous ...
Maria serve tea. Old Stephen watched his daughter carefully.
- This trip I think you own good, 'said the old man admiringly. Yourself
are very beautiful. And if you're full and looks good.
- And yet more fulfilling to me, Dad, she said blushing.
Because expecting a child.
Everyone was excited about this news. Stephanie become the focus
attention to the great relief of Susannah. The young woman approached and sat
Besides grandmother Clotilde. The old lady did not seem aging
nothing in these five years had not seen since. Morgan gave him
Shanna a plate of cookies. She politely refused.
- Come on, do not fuss, 'he said harshly. I cut the calf
the fat for returning prodigal child. We do not disappoint.
Rate the menu! Otherwise, you need to fulfill yourself. You poor
as a tar!
- Do not worry, I'm not on a diet. But I prefer cakes mother
your. Thought they taste, I feel like a child again. Want to give me one, I
please?
- As pleasure, but please stay as you are. Baby, you were a
nuisance. All day I had to run after you; you

ducks and fish in the pool after you until I get

old beech top. You and Louis were some demons. And each
time you make any prank, you came to me to ask for help.
- I had a thing for you, Suzan said blushing. I was
so happy when you came to save me. You were my best. I would be
I wanted to meet most secret desires and we offer a
silver platter ...
- My most secret desires? What for example?
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- For example to convince you that Martine Reddington
most seductive man in the world. To persuade her to leave the
Philip Griffiths ...
Morgan gasped.
- Martin Reddington, my most secret desire? Where did you
took her and that? I met her once or twice but I
handles seemed boring. As for you, when you came to the last
meeting had to fall in love with John! You would have done better to
I consider myself your knight, mischievous added. That would be
made to avoid disappointments.
Maria gave him another cup of tea girl and it gave him respite
up to answer.
- Loves childhood lasts a lifetime, Suzan replied with a
cynical jab. Understand, me and John have the same age. Child
being him as a kid, and you were already a couple. But at last
meeting ...
- ... At the last meeting, you quit driven by a starting
stupid!
The Clash eyes. The voices are tightening.
- How can you think that way? John is a boy very
serious, highly weighted.
- It's not made for you. I'm surprised you have not yet given account
this thing.
- Why? Because I fell in love with Fran? In short, engagement
... was not our official.
Morgan studied it with his dark eyes, as if trying to guess
thoughts.
- I made careful before this incident. Remember
evening when I read the letters of Gerard by Victorine ...
Suzan rather not even remember that night.
- You asked me if I and John have common tastes. But you
say anything bad about him.
- Then there was no reason to. But it seemed that he
too easy to fall into his arms. Maybe I was jealous! Morgan added sourly.
Suzan lowered her eyes. Therefore, John is in love with France, and
Morgan played the role of savior magnanimous. He had done it only

Page 15
generosity? After all, she was the sole heir of a large
properties ... Slowly, he looked up and managed to hide
disorder. He already had experience!
- Sometimes she murmured in a voice equal, I wonder if
Your proposal was simply turned generosity. When did you
proposed to announce engagement to save face, and did not have a
hidden thought in mind? ... You were really completely disinterested?
- You're nasty as before. Finally, understand that there are
Ivanhoe! I simply knew how to catch in flight opportunity
interesting. But you have not played honestly! You used me and then
you left.
Shanna, who was sipping tea, felt anger a strangle.
- I admire your great sincerity, she replied ... And even thought sec
plan will succeed? Why?
This time, Morgan seemed puzzling. Sova ...
- Had they gone, 'he said finally realized you had your old
dream: to give me on a silver platter my dream mysterious ...
Shanna was boiling with rage. If it were alone would jump up. He
even so much wanted to seize Larchwood Vale? Obviously,
Brent had taken place at Blair Hill, but do not think it theft. When
he is married to Stephanie, Morgan had long been decided
to be veterinarian. His father had seen his son in law gladly taking
place prodigal son. For Morgan there were only one
solution: to turn to Larchwood Vale!
Man's voice made her return to reality.
- You're back, finally. A lot of water has flowed the river, and irony
fate, John is free again! Attention, Shanna! Do not repeat
mistake once! I'm not ready to play again the role of
savior. When you really stop to see the pink on this Don Juan?
You get nowhere with John married! Be wise, beautiful
my!
- Wisdom has nothing to do with it
- You're wrong. Allying with me than you earn. We have much in
common. We have the same tastes, the same ideas. The base also
building a strong marriage, not a romantic admiration
fleeting.
Page 16
Shanna his blood run cold, but do not let her see anything.
- Look at my parents continues Morgan ...
- You picked a good example, cut him short. Your parents are
bonded to each other by a solid attachment. But they kept all
love of youth. That makes their relationship wonderful. When I
just a little girl I remember seeing your mother threw themselves

Your father's arms as a teenager. That struck me at the time.

- Twelve years were very insightful. But to nineteen
where were you thinking? How could you fall in love with a
nice talker John?
- In any case, I had enough judgment to break fast
so-called engagement with you!
He put the cup and stood up abruptly.
- Come on, Grandma, Suzan said smiling, come show me the house!
Each of them want to explore the corner and see if anything has changed!
He hoped that his mouth shut Morgan. But he did not seem
affected by discussion. Young woman left the room he heard her voice saying
most natural in the world:
- Come on, old Brent, tell us travel memories. You are
a very inexperienced writer. In your letters we do not even
saying if the weather was beautiful or not.
Everyone laughed. Shanna bit his lip. Why not
remained in the New Hebrides evil man?
Page 17
CHAPTER II
Suzan was mad with rage. desperately trying to regain
peace. Necessarily, because otherwise grandmother had noticed
what's going on. How Morgan dared to attack John? It was a
boy so cute! You should lead a life with his wife
cozy and happy. But France had died three years after their marriage.
Who thought Morgan? Ideal man? Of! These bachelors!
- We had tremendous luck, my dear. After so many years, I
Find exactly the same fabric.
- Same ... fabric? What fabric?
Shanna sudden return to reality. Grandma smiled understanding.
- Well, my niece, what about you? You head in the clouds!
- Excuse me, please! It is ... because of lag.
The old lady looked at him incredulously.
- Is not that also because the meeting with your ex-fiance?
Your discussion just now looked very fierce. Finally, to
back to fabric. Your great-grandmother, Victorine Larchwood, chose
for curtains in this room. When I was a kid, I really like
more. All these flowers, these birds made me dream. And lo
that country a few months ago came across exactly the same material. You realize
I was thrilled. I put to recover all the curtains so that the
olden days. The material is of very good quality. Will
last for generations! But maybe that will be the future mistress
changed? Maybe you will find that the style of the house is too old?
These words Shanna rousing in a strange melancholy. Was it
likely to happen? Old house will fall into the hands
a stranger who does not know to appreciate the charm obsolete. That would

exceedingly grieved her grandmother. Poor Clotilde who had lost two
boys in the war. And her daughter married a businessman and lived
away from home. Who would take over from Larchwood Vale?
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- History repeats itself, murmured dreamily old. Founder
our family Gerard Larchwood, married a Frenchwoman.
And your grandfather chose me. My parents were so happy
marriage ...
- Grandma ... you've chosen one? I mean ... the weather
Therefore, marriages were often arranged between families. The young are too
were asked.
The old woman burst into joyous laughter.
- My dear, I was crazy about him! When, in 1914, went to
fight in France, dying of anxiety: if some love
French! Do not make threats account, bombs, trenches.
Praise the Lord, returned healthy. And you see, these years of
separating us even closer to each other. Absence being
dear is so terrible! This reminds me of a phrase
I read it in a book: "No woman is really a woman
if you did not know what sadness, if not madly wanted
what can not ... " War, made the cruel separation
me a real woman. Your mother knows what I mean. And she
experienced suffering. Always swore that he would marry a farmer,
a man who can take in the hands of the. And eventually
met your father. It was infatuated with him. However, for a
month, did not want to admit to herself that. He was a man
business, traveling constantly. To follow him to depart
home, to leave this land so dear. Your Poor
mother consuming visibly weakened. Eventually we managed to
convince her to confide to me. And I urged her to marry
the man she loved. My own experience has used me. before
of meeting your grandfather, I always said that I live somewhere
waterfront. Ocean loved more than anything in the world. Poor
Humphrey took me far, far away from the places they
I was dreaming, but I never regretted. I learned to love
mountains, waves on the beach to watch the song ... Remember always
my words, my dear: nothing is more precious than the world
love. I feel that you are tense, anxious. Do not be scared of
return it. Sooner or later your heart and you will choose
know which way to go.
Page 19
Shanna looked thoughtfully out the window. Somewhere, far, near
horizon, stood the house of John.
- In your opinion, Grandma, I could find my happiness here at

Larchwood Vale? You should give up pride and accept that a

man to ask me to marry? ...
- I did not say that, 'said Clotilde determined. I would not allow
to influence your decision. Youth must choose your path without
using the so-called "good advice"! In any case, you better look
your first engagement with Morgan. It was a comedy aimed at you
preserve honor. But time has passed. And John, and Morgan were
changed much. And you've changed, my dear, you learn more
things. Do not you regard the two as a new light?
Shanna did not answer, but exclaimed:
- You knew then, Grandma? You have not fooled by stratagem
me? When we announced her engagement to Morgan ...
- ... When you've announced her engagement to Morgan, John did not have eyes
than for France. I understand his intentions Morgan. Now you can
I confess: I asked him to take the man!
- How, Grandma? I could not. Our engagement was only a
comedy.
- You could let yourself be seduced, find the companionship of a
enjoy some quiet life ...
- It was not any pleasure. Understand, Grandma, Morgan wanted
to marry me just out of interest! He wanted Larchwood
Vale, not me!
- I knew it from the start. But these things are not
never so simple. I was entirely agree with his attitude
Morgan.
- I do not understand you! It was simply opportunism!
The old woman shrugged.
- Maybe later you will understand. In any case, take account of advice
my. Forget what Morgan did then. The past is past.
I hope you forgive. Now you need to look. Only then will you be able to be
happy.
Just then a man's voice called out from the scale.
Page 20
- Lower fast! Morgan cried. Parents and newlyweds
leave. They want to say goodbye.
And so Shanna had to spend the evening together only
Clotilde and Morgan. Not really suited him. Fortunately, John
and he promised to pass.
It just please call. Cinar earlier. Grandmother deals
kitchen, and Morgan, to the great surprise of the young, dealing with
easement. There had never seen him in such a role and teased him
discreet about it.
- Well, it's fashionable, is not it? Morgan replied throwing
old woman a look of tenderness. And then, I do not want the host
Our bothering too much. It's hard to find people to

staff here, so far from the city. I came across a woman who
comes twice a week. It's little, but fortunately there is a woman
formidable. It has an unbelievable increase.
After shook the table, they settled in the lounge by the fireplace.
The ambiance was warm and quiet. When the phone rings, Morgan went
to answer.
- It's for you. E John.
When handed the camera, their eyes meeting.
- I'm going to speak for the other device. It's more ... intimate.
- You still intimate with this man? asked Morgan
cynical. Perfect. You make the connection.
She spoke very loudly. No doubt he had done intentionally. Clotilde
undoubtedly heard. Moreover, had been covered by a sudden access
cough was much like a burst of laughter in disguise. His grandmother
game beat it!
- Hello, John?
There was a snap in the receiver.
- What do you do, have fun breaking dishes?
- No, Suzan said blushing. E Morgan closed the other
device. I prefer to talk in the lobby.
- As in the good old days.
Indeed, the young have the impression that previously returned. The Voice
John was as comforting ...
Page 21
- Yes, but once I did it for other reasons ... John, I wanted
I'll send my condolences orally's death
Fran. I was there when it happened ... I do not want Morgan to
we hear, not to feel uncomfortable. It must be painful to
stirs memories ... Finally, just now you looked fit and
it took me a stone from the heart. Fran was a wonderful girl. I think
you were hard to come back after this shock.
- After looking up the biggest pain. I learned
that a long time ago when you left me.
Shanna was surprised. John had always been sure
seduced by Fran before she leave him. And suddenly spoke of
his deceased wife as consolation about a solution. Still managed to
keep calm.
- It seems that you did not suffer too much to continue
Suzan ironic tone.
- What about u? You suffered seeing that I fell in love so quickly
Fran after our breakup? You know, I had many doubts.
When you broke up with Morgan, I was sorry that I did not have patience.
You should realize that your engagement could not last.
It is a few years older than you ... Often women are attracted
older men, but they get bored very quickly. I think you

Engagement regretted that ...

Suzan not regret anything. Maybe just not married to Morgan.
Application of the marriage was a scheme intended to save the honor,
not a declaration of love. But do not feel sorry for those
how their relationship had lasted several weeks.
- Sorry, continued John, I can not come tonight.
I have to go into town to attend a political rally. In any case,
after the trip, I guess you are very tired. What would you say of a
horseback ride tomorrow morning? That would remember
Want good old days? Perfect! We meet at the Rocher
six o'clock. Clotilde never wakes up before eight o'clock Morgan
takes care of her little room. The old woman wants to serve him in bed. E
Her only concession to age.
Shanna wondered why accepted. Maybe just to give a lesson
Morgan? Do not dare to admit.
Page 22
He went back to the salon.
- Could you lend me a horse tomorrow morning? asked the girl
with a detached tone. Did you love to take a walk with John. However,
if there is a problem ...
- Take Grise. Usually I'll ride, but never leave
see sheep before nine o'clock in the morning Dan makes the first round. One
will saddle for you if you want. I leave you now. Goodbye!
- You should not feel obliged to leave us alone, Suzan protested.
Me and grandmother will have plenty of time to talk and today
next.
- Must go to Ngai Bend, Clotilde intervene. Philip
Griffiths is left in Australia. Morgan should give him a hand
Martina help.
Shanna thought that Martin had much luck. But refrained do
any notes.
- How is Martine? asked the girl you were alone.
- It is equally beautiful. With her hair copper and blue eyes, I
reminiscent of France. Children are adorable. Dorothe and his Roberta
like as two drops of water. Richar not bear nothing
grandfather's surname. He looks just like ... And little Peter is an angel.
With his red hair and cheeks flushed say he's a leprechaun. They
increased extraordinary. Fortunately for Martine! It now has more
free time.
Much more time, thought Shanna. Especially now
her husband is away in Australia.
Suzan went to bed early, but could not fall asleep.
Unconsciously, lurked the return of Morgan. To chase
thoughts began to think about the meeting. Be prepared
invitations, onganizate hosting, table ...

A noise awoke from a dream car. Morgan park their car

in the garage. A dim light passed through the curtains. It was full moon now
five years, in the evening when she and Morgan had decided to get engaged.
They walked under the trees to be more romantic. As in the evening
this month walk through the clouds, enveloping them in a magical light.
They stopped and admired the enchanted mountains that rise majestically in
their mantles of snow. From spring garden rose scents.
Page 23
To break the spell of the moment, Suzan said bitterly:
- I think everyone in the house thinking it's a perfect night
for love.
- That's right, Morgan whispered. Why waste these great moments,
Shanna? Let us be gripped by the beauty of the night. Damn John
Forester!
It included her in his arms and kissed her passionately. For the first time he
felt lips. Taken by surprise, hesitated to resist.
The stars twinkled in the sky. But Morgan, in turn, broke the spell.
- Well, I'm sorry I played knight thee
saved the honor. The reward was worth. John's crazy if
prefer your cousin.
Suzan then felt a taste of ashes in my mouth ...
He tried to banish memories. What the hell! There was naive girl
before. You do not have to leave foolishly overwhelmed by a clear
month! It was coming spring, or happiness to return to
cradle. Maybe I should have kept the other
Canterbury, where in September was the color of autumn. Spring was
a silly season, a season dangerous ...
In the silence of the night, a horse whinnied. No doubt it was Grise, who
master meet. I hear the sound of horse whispering soothing words,
then the man steps echoed in the alleys court. Whistled softly. It was a
tradition of the house. When a man came home late whistle. In
That way the house were sure it was not any guest
uninvited. The Morgan precisely why he had chosen that song? He forgot
Does ...
Discovered along the poem in an old book. It was called
"The month of September". Morgan put the notes talent: composing
very well. When you play the piano grandmother, she had tears in her eyes.
Shanna could not refrain from murmuring last line of
song.
- Oh, copper-colored memories of the September dead, where you
disappeared ...
They were really dead, these moments of yore? Morgan Is their
and he brought enchanted remember that night? "Come on, Shanna, not
be bad! He spent the night with Martine. A much loved

Page 24
time, even if he refuses to recognize. Lie down and forget the follies
this! You said that it was easier to come back if he had not been
here, to see! Nice! Nice! "
The alarm clock rings at a quarter to six. Young jumped out of bed and
dressed urgent. He caught her hair back into a ponytail. He took under his arm
Riding boots and went on tiptoe. In the kitchen
Morgan already prepared tea and sandwiches. An invite to take place.
- I can not stay. I do not want to wait for John to me.
- Do not be a fool! Do not rush to get to his feet like a slave
faithful! Let it boil least in its own juice, that would catch
better!
- You deserve a slap, Hervington-Blair Morgan, a replica Suzan
ton of ice.
- It's best to go with an empty stomach doing, he insists ironic.
- I will not be gone long. At half past seven I'll be back
to prepare breakfast for my grandmother ... and for you.
- There's no reason to bother. For a long time I take care of business
that. Your arrival will not change my habits.
- Do not be silly, Morgan. Now I will deal with
Housekeeping issues. I'll be happy to save you on.
Suzan sipped tea, biting a sandwich.
- Hm! All her grandmother make butter by hand, is not it? ... Listen,
Morgan, please stop by your insinuations continues calm face. Not
I came here to throw myself into the arms of John. But gossips will
cleveteasc start, I'm sure. Do not ask and you fuel to the fire! Not
I was going to go back, just because I did not want to hear all
calumnies. But blood was stronger voice. I want to live
the land of my ancestors and I want to live in peace. Too
nobody will be able to replace Fran near John.
- Nobody wants to try!
- What surprising remark! Remarrying not mean
nothing extraordinary. It's hard to live alone. Many women were married
with widowers and were very happy.
- If the first marriage was a success, I would understand the point
of view. But he did a very unfortunate Fran!
Page 25
Shanna rises sharply.
- This time, go too far! I do not believe you. How dare
to do such a sneer?
Morgan looked at her eyes.
- Already have broken my heart again, letting yourself be seduced by this
Don Juan second hand. The second time will not happen again.
- Listen, rushed exasperated Suzan not believe in hearts
crushed! Love always heals wounds. Nobody died from

that!
And turning on his heel, left the kitchen door slamming.
Damn Hervington-Blair Morgan! From now on it will not
May tuck into account. It will not let conquered by his charm.
John offended him, became downright unbearable. How dare
to claim that France was unhappy? Suddenly Shanna was seized
curiosity: he wanted to know the truth. Poor France, died three years
of marriage bringing a baby dead. Is that really suffered
with John? No! It was impossible! Morgan just try it
discredit John in her eyes. I never would have guessed that can be
so cruel!
In any case, had kept his word. Grise was ready, saddled. It Was
a wonderful mare, a little sturdy and full of vitality. Shanna
put your foot on the ladder and jump in the saddle. He felt a slight breeze
from the Pacific. The Wind That Shakes the Barley fresh May 1 reassure least
young woman. Plain was so beautiful ... smiling sun
that rose slowly. Bad mood vanished.
John's silhouette outline clear spring morning light.
Behind him, the old man raised his forms rounded peak. Suddenly,
Suzan feel transported five years ago. When he was
engaged to John Forester had become a morning walks
tradition. Back then loved him ... Or rather thought that she loves. It
decided to fall in love with John. That seemed to be the solution
ideal. Larchwood neighbor's property was Vale. Taking it in
Marriage ensure their peaceful life with her beloved grandmother ...
For several weeks have been very happy. Then there was
organized the meeting "friends pioneers". Morgan had offered to
Page 26
give a helping hand. When replacing an assistant vet's office in
While he spent most of the time with Shanna and
Clotilde. John shirk: have a lot of work. In fact, the assembly
it did not seem to interest him at all.
For days, Morgan and Shanna have worked together. together they
up a small historical memoir which I then multiplied as it
provide all guests. All this I have come very close. On the
Moreover, John began to meet with Fran. Shanna would be
to suffer greatly but was not the case. On The Contrary. Discovered
Morgan companion courteous, cultured and sensitive. Suddenly
John's company had seemed bland. Even begin to doubt. Was he
Does the man of her life? Now you see it in a different light. Morgan
loved literature, poetry. In his room, alongside school textbooks,
is also found dozens of volumes which proved sensitivity of culture.
As for John, he was reading. He spoke only about animals,
fertilizers, tractors. He could accept him all his life? About what
spoke in the long winter evenings when the snow would be isolated from the rest

the world?
One night, in a moment of lucidity, Suzan understood
truth loved Morgan. That day had together
research about the harsh winter of 1867. Their region known
never a greater horror. Thousands of sheep perished and region
remained isolated for several weeks. Food reserves
were finished and their grandfathers were about to starve.
- Should rummaging through the barn, he suggested Clotilde. Grandmother
Victorine told all the horror that her mother in a series of
letters. It's a valuable testimony about those hard times.
Shanna and Morgan found them in the drawer of a table linked to old
care with a yellowed ribbon since. Very troubled settled
on an old sofa with the impression that they found a treasure. They Were
more envelopes. In one of them, a branch resting
Myosotis dry ...
- Aha! We bet you are love letters? joked
Morgan.
Shanna opened up the old delicate taffeta ribbon.
Page 27
- God! You're right! They love letters of Gerard
by Victorine! Do you realize? They traveled all the way ... And as
time! I'd like to read them, but ... It's not indiscreet?
- Come on! It would not hurt anyone. I do not believe you
could resist. Finally, to be with a clear conscience, let
Clotilda allowed to ask!
The old lady was in the parlor, sitting in front of the fireplace. I told
that was the problem.
- Of course, my dear! said the old man, smiling maliciously. Not
you first read them! When I found them I read. Of
Besides, I had a big fight with Humphrey on it. In youth
I was damned. Humphrey would not let me read them, but I
I never left. I went into the office and I was locked inside. He
was furious.
He even tried to break the door! Then he went for a walk
like to chill. In the meantime I read the letters. It was so
nice one! But when I wanted to come out of hiding I have not been able to
open the door. I was a prisoner! Humphrey came not release me
only after dark. I took a fright! Read the letters you!
But not here but in the barn, candlelight, that way you
get the impression that you are traveling time.
Accepted suggestion laughing. Before getting married, Victorine
living with parents in far Akaroa. Roads were
Gerard heavy and could not write too often. In his last letter he
Thank agrees to leave the oasis of civilization as it
accompany the distant realm of Larchwood Vale. Suzan and

Morgan was especially fascinated by the writing of their grandfather, the

gentleness words in letters. All started with a small poem
proving refinement and culture author. Suzan feel a
slight jealousy. In those days, men knew how to woo
the women they loved! They were not afraid I'm ridiculous. Morgan
read aloud:
- Victorine, are a constant delight to me. In the last
Your letter asking me why I love you. Look at yourself in the mirror,
my love! There you will see yellow hair and eyes like honey
neither brown nor green, but rather the color of hazelnuts
Page 28
wild ... If you smile you will discover a mirror image
adorable dimple on her left cheek ... Nothing else will you
see.
But I, I see the wonderful way in which you move your hands gracefully
When talking about. It says that there are two white birds. I see the line
your neck delicate fragile. I see your temples dancing loops
when moving the head. My love, I want to write you a poem,
but do not know how to write. Then I let the other to sing for me.
"It goes nice that night,
dressed in veils, and,
the firmament of heaven,
Her eyes shine like two stars.
And when it comes down to me,
filled with comforting spell,
in her kingdom, I am King
and leads me to paradise "
Soon, my love, we will be united and no one and nothing will
could ever separate us. We will enjoy together
beauty spell days nights ...
I love you, Victorine,
Yours, Gerard.
A pleasant emotion to overcome it slowly Suzan. Her eyes met
Morgan's eyes no longer able to peel. But he kissed her; an
John believed in love and respect his choice. However Suzan was
overwhelmed by desire. He could feel his blood got into her cheeks. He does not
noticed it? Light the candles was so weak!
- You read so beautiful poetry, Shanna whispered to hide
disorder. And you know a lot of poetry! I often hear
reciting her grandmother. You have a great memory.
- I love poetry, Morgan replied simply.
Then Suzan had a sudden revelation. Her love for John
was a whim. Not loved him, but the opportunity to stay close to
Larchwood Vale, close to Grandma ...
Having descended the ladder and put the letters back, Morgan

asked snap:
Page 29
- Shanna, your future fiance likes poetry?
She left eye.
- I do n't believe. He ... did not have time to read. But why you ask?
- I often think of your future. You know, marriage is for
forever. Unfortunately many people treat it easily. It
married without thinking, driven by a blind passion. And that
eventually lead to rupture sad. If you aside charm,
Physical attraction, what remains? Have you ever put sincerely
this question?
- I thought, she replied sincerely. But I prefer not to talk
about it.
- I am not satisfied with this half Response Please Shanna,
do not be overtaken by events! Next month we will be caught in a
whirlwind of all sorts of activities. The arrival of all parents, friends,
makes us fall into a sweet euphoria. Keep your mind clear!
Do not feel obliged to marry John just to unite
the oldest families in the region!
- I'll remember your advice, Suzan whispered before it disappears
the stairs.
That night he could not sleep. The feeling that you have
against Morgan was very strong. She loved him and this conversation a
was crazy with happiness. Luckily it was not officially engaged yet
John. Able to separate from him slowly. She did not want him to suffer.
The following days have passed like a dream. But Morgan has found
common cold. Suzan was but no worries: it was funny to
wear it, because everyone knew that John's fiance.
And Morgan could not to make any statement. Lotus in the day
Therefore, in the barn, were so close to each other ...
Suzan asked John to deal with Fran, her cousin
Tahiti, coming to the meeting. When John saw looked on
beautiful girl suddenly felt relieved. Able to break free
care, he would not have suffered at all ... He observed both when
walking in the park, believing safe from prying eyes. To
witnessed this scene and Morgan. And shortly afterwards he proposed
to announce their engagement. Gladly accepted. Of course, it was a
Engagement pretense. But maybe ...
Page 30
How much naivete! ... Shanna shook his head angrily. You should
chase ghosts of the past. He looked at the hill and he saw John that
approaching at a gallop.

Page 31
CHAPTER III
John seemed pleased to see her again. The cordiality of waste embarrassment
Shanna. She looked him in the eye and proposed:
- Let's go back in the past, would you? Forget all
misunderstandings and troubles of the world and to enjoy this
walk.
These words roused the spirit of Shanna Action
old ...
- Let's go back! cheerful girl cried and turned his horse
place. Who gets first Cross-Gerard! Are you ready? Here we go!
John was an accomplished rider. Often participate in competitions
horse. Knowing that his companion not long ride their
cate hand also held. Gallop through the prairie girl with burning cheeks. With
Shortly before Cross-Gerard, John slow and more Fule
Shanna horse and thus arrive first. The winner turned to him
eyes shining with happiness. He looked at her with admiration. It was a
change from the hostility of Morgan ...
- Let's get right! man proposed. We released a road
bulldozer. You can now get up to Beech Black. The view is
wonderful, you'll see.
The horses went on foot because the road was quite difficult.
Rattle harnesses mix with birds singing.
Tinkling crystal clear creek dale climb. Soon they reached
a clearing situated on a mound where they saw all the hills
and surrounding plains below. It was a great place to learn
Stray animals.
- Here, life has changed a lot, 'said John. Do you realize?
Our grandfather had them a few days to reach
Christchurch. Today, I can reach in less than two hours at
Airport and within minutes to be at the meeting Wellington
Fleece Committee or the Committee Grains! Once, the first
Page 32
Forester was three weeks on the road to Christchurch. Rakaia and
Selwy were often bestowed and everything was under water. Your grandmother me
recounted. Today, America and Europe are close to us.
- Are you going to go there?
Before answering, John had the little hesitation:
- Maybe next year. I thought I'd go right these days. But
I gave you the letter Stephanie told me you were coming, so
I canceled the trip.
Shanna's eyes widened.
- You canceled it ... because of me? Oh, John! I should not have it
do it!
- Why not? Decided to roll with the intention to meet you.

I had to go to Brussels, London and then in Canada. We all

chance to meet you.
It was a flattering compliment. He felt embarrassed.
Larchwood returned to earth to live quiet
ancestors and woke up in the middle of a hurricane of passion ... John
act like everything would begin again, as if it had not been
never married Fran. Shanna decided to put things right.
- Maybe you should still go, 'she said with faltering voice. I have
heard that you want to engage in politics. In Europe you make sure
relationship interesting and important for your career.
Once again, John looked deep in my eyes. Shanna was another time
also deeply troubled eyes. But now ...
- Never mind. I can well do this another time voyage.
Now I have the opportunity to correct the mistakes of the past. Morgan me you
already caught once and I will not let her do the second time in May.
With bated breath, Shanna looked her straight in the eye itself.
- John, she began calm between me and Morgan is nothing.
For the sake of grandparents, we decided to work together. Clotilde feels
that aging and repeated incessantly that this meeting will be the last
of her life. We must try to distract her thoughts
black making this meeting a success. Me and Morgan will
try to do everything possible to succeed. In no event
we want to do again past mistakes or bathe ourselves
amorous intrigue. And there is the memory of Fran. Sorry
Page 33
you have to talk about this thing, but I can not forget her
Never. We were very good friends, remember ...
John Grise approximate their horse. Now riding side by side.
- He died two years ago, John said softly. I'm still young,
Shanna. I am not going to live my whole life with a ghost!
Remember, my dear Thou hast forsaken me, and not vice versa! He
nice to meet Fran, but, for me, was you were
always the most important ...
Susan turned to him and looked beautiful face featured
regular.
- John, I hope that France never suspected this thing! You see,
when I saw him making yard, I was relieved I decided
to end our relationship but I was afraid that I will make
suffer. But all is solved in this way could not have better
Fran never knew you chose it just to spite me do
me, eh? I myself have done lot as to dissipate suspicions.
Did not suffer because of me, eh?
The man clenched his jaws.
- Get your head the idea that, please! Fran was never
happy here. You have nothing to do with it. I just did not like

this land. Usual sun, the exuberance of Tahiti, Fran na

never managed to get used to the mountain and cold. We hope that
eventually will attach to these places. But unfortunately, we
left ... Please Snanna, believe me! Give me a break as your
show my good faith! I ... did not have to tell you so
fast, you know. But you are here, as before ... I
lost his head ... Shanna, my dear. The last meeting of friends
pioneers separated us. Perhaps this will reunite!
- And I need some time to see things more clearly,
Suzan simple answer ... Let's go back! It's cool.
They rode together until the Richer. There, John turned to
loneliness and Shanna mansion where Morgan was waiting. Another
Once, I had to carefully hide their feelings. If France had
Unfortunately, that never happened because of her. Poor France, which is
resting in a granite tomb in the foothills ...
Page 34
Suzan into the kitchen humming. On the table, breakfast was
served. Morgan just finished Clotilde prepared tray. Girl
expect a malicious comment, but Morgan was content to
smiles:
- That's telepathy! You have arrived at timing. Do you want to come with me? Grandmother
will be delighted to see you when he wakes up!
The old woman was awake and sitting in bed. A fluffy purple shawl covered her
shoulders. His eyes shone with joy.
- Look what a coquette is. I thought it's a queen who receives
courtiers, Morgan joked.
With infinite precautions he sat down pillows and comforter straightened. Suzan
Instant shelf and propped him with a pillow. Grandma chuckled lustful.
- Indulge me, my dear! All these goodies are for
me? Lord! You should be ashamed that my age
eat that. But the air of the mountains made me always to have a
starve.
Then the youth descended and taking breakfast together
large kitchen, colored white and blue. They were alone and felt
embarrassed. Their conversation consisted only of platitudes.
- How is Aunt Elise? Suzan asked anointing and a slice of
bread with butter and jam.
- It's in great shape. Margot Pierre and turned the old mansion
the hotel and now live with her in the little house. That takes
took a stone from the heart. He was afraid to leave. And then, now
Elise is a "junior"!
- I heard. Maternal grandmother wrote about granddaughter.
- Of course we all come to the meeting. We'll have more work
with preparations. Fortunately, this time I will not be doing
family history again. Remember all the paperwork,

searches last time? It was exhausting!

Suzan red. On it not tired to write beam concerning
family history. Quite the contrary! For hours on end, one
next to each other, it aplecaser on old documents ... For her
was a pleasure, a joy, a revelation.
Banish those memories determined and addressed some greater detail
practice. Invitations have already been sent! It was better to be
Page 35
sent in time. Nobody expected this meeting! His mother
Morgan LIABLE table and his father had to
raise a canopy in the garden: that way the children could play
out even in bad weather. The guests of honor were to be received into
old ballroom.
- Martine is sweet! It aims to entertain the children and their
organize games to amuse. Last night I fixed it.
Suzana froze his smile and his face tightened. It Was
jealous. It was a new feeling which so far had known.
When John was in love with France, was relieved as
only. He loved his cousin. I sincerely admire red hair, big eyes and
blue. But Martine, was different. It was the first
managed to conquer Morgan, although he refused to
recognize! He could not envy Martine, this woman full of
life for her bright hair, Shanna, blonde and pale.
- Why are you so gloomy? Morgan asked suddenly. I thought you
drowned ships.
Mocks it! He decided to give her nose.
- Who do you think you are, sir Hervington-Blair? A soothsayer
awesome?
- Please lot to not make fun of my name. You know very
well that give the impression of sudism composite name. But name
My and proud of it.
- Where do you draw the name?
- In the eighteenth century a Blair married a Hervington.
Girl having no brother, her last name was doomed to perish. Such As
to pleasure her parents, my ancestor was decided to add to
his last name and that of his wife.
- I just thought it's so chic?
- Come on, Shanna, do not be nasty! Why do you think some
petty things? He just wanted to be gentle, that's all! For the elderly,
survival of the name is something of utmost importance!
- The name does not have any importance. The domain will always exist. I
I wear my husband's name and that's it!
- Do not be selfish! Think grandmother, for example. And then, it
nice to regain your name in the tree. It is so sad

Page 36
to see him die like a dead branches ... I want to make a
confession. During our engagement ...
- So-called ... our engagement!
- Whatever! During the "so-called" our engagements so I
I decided to call on our first daughter Victorine-Rose, as
Your grandmother. I'm an incurable sentimental!
Susan felt a thrill a cross. He had thought of children
that will be! How many men think about it when
engaged? And yet, never had serious intentions to ask
in marriage!
- You are very cautious, said Suzan ironic. Have you thought about
color baptism invitations? Listen to what I say: if a
day you engaged "the real thing" try to be less
sentimental! Leave out the romance in your future wife! I do not
surprised that Martine ...
He stopped suddenly, blushing to the top of the ears. Subside
worn by thoughts, and now he bites his lips.
- Do not be surprised that Martin Philip favorite for me, is not
right? I agree with you and I think he was right. However, from a
means very bad weather. But maybe with time ...
He emptied the cup thoughtfully.
- You've changed much, Morgan resumed slowly. Formerly you were
mild. When you were a kid, I often say: man who
Suzan will marry will be lucky! He has a heart of gold and a girl
stylish. And then you left ... city life changed you, Shanna.
You're not the same. You harsher. Many times I wondered if
eventually you will marry Louis Rossignol, your former partner
play. But at the last meeting of the missed call.
- To marry Louis? Never, said Suzan proud.
And do not forget that we are cousins!
- Bullshit! You do not say so much nonsense! You summers hospital
seventh.
This time Morgan was downright angry. As the day,
child, was almost ready to burn the barn or when
Cut a circle in the living room ceiling "to enter better
Page 37
sun "now found the same feeling of guilt, the same fear
mixed with admiration.
- I have no news about him for a long time, 'she said
softly, trying to calm him Is in Tahiti?
- Yes, but travels a lot. It's an experienced climber, you know
ok. He had some extraordinary achievements.
- A ... yes, Suzanne tried to curry favor. I remember.
- In recent years you more interested in all the rest of the family, not

right? You left the vortex of life driven by large cities.

- This time, Morgan managed to rile.
- How dare you say that? I wrote grandparents every
week!
- Do you write ... But here it's easy to make some sacrifices ... ...
Do not dare to finish his sentence. Her eyes became green. It Was
a bad sign. We measure with contempt.
- Well, continue! Suzan banter him. Take your mind to the end!
What language mischievous! Can I return the compliment just now. And you
You have not changed much. And not for the better, believe me! Come on, take your question to
the end! Do not try to coddle me!
- Whether! Morgan continued calm. Do not ever think your
sacrifice life easier, receptions, trips, to come here to hold
Clotilda company! Do not ever think that the old
that wonderful, not to influence you, loneliness endured without
never complain. An old lady who, without affection of
foreign family could die in total isolation.
- You mean without you! Suzan burst angrily what I say!
Morgan St., lonely grandparents savior! You should wear a
halo! You could use very well.
Morgan raised his shoulders resignedly:
- Aggressive and angry, he finds without raising his voice. Whenever
ready to attack the enemy in front.
Suzan paled suddenly. He enemy? How could he think
like that? Of course criticizing. But do with love.
Because I loved him with all my heart. For five years he was thinking without
cessation.
Page 38
Morgan's opinion about her was not flattering! You should
try to make him understand why had not returned earlier.
In the first two years, because of course. I should not dare to
gaze. I sincerely hope that in the end will
marry another front, ending her illusions. In this way,
it could be conscience and return to
live in the only place in the world where they feel at home. Remember
Larchwood never Vale. It would gladly give up channels
Venice, Place de la Concorde, the austere charm of Moscow and
Brussels Central Square for quiet mornings from
Larchwood Vale. Often i were moist eyes remembering
valleys carved by streams, the old beech in the garden of fragrance
intoxicating charm of acacia and moonlit nights. each
Winter was thinking nostalgically carpet of snow that turns all
a silver fairy landscape.
With great difficulty managed to drive away from the heart love
for him. When he finally decided to return to New Zealand,

her mother fell seriously ill even a few days before departure.
For several weeks struggled between life and death, but he
Suzana forbidden to announce grandmother. He did not want to disquiet the
old.
At her age has the right to a peaceful life, his mother explained on
hospital bed. Write them as usual, something cheerful AND full of optimism.
Finally, after a long and painful treatment,
Marguerite managed to beat the disease. But convalescence was long
and heavy. On several occasions urged her to leave quietly Suzan
in New Zealand.
- I'll go it alone, she said I do not wanna brave
keep near me, darling. I know that you burn with impatience to get back
there.
But Susan refused. He went to fulfill the dream only after
seeing a perfectly restored. At the airport, said Marguerite
embracing:
- Please do not tell much anything grandparents. What more do good to
now worry when cured? I'll come and meet you at
meeting. We have plenty of time to talk and will set
Page 39
current. Until then, I think it's better not to talk to anyone
about it.
Suzan had promised. And now Morgan falsely accuse that
had heart. Of! If he could to explain ...
- I had reasons which I have accepted. Reasons
personal. Very important ...
Morgan interrupted with a gesture.
- I do not doubt that you had. Perhaps it is a man in your life
and it is your right. But anyway, you could have more alive here a month
or two gentleman would certainly understand. You had
the courage to leave him alone? A man who can not bear a
partition so short, can it be a good companion? You had
never too much discretion to love your choices!
Now leave you conclude Morgan rising. No time to
lost. But I am pleased that we were able to tell you all this.
I wanted to do it before, always say what I think.
- I now feel relieved of a great burden. You may find that you
See quietly problems. Do not get mad at me if today you do not
I'll help. I would like the day to spend around grandparents.
Then you get to work. It takes a great cleaning. The woman
you hired is a perfect housewife, but I think not
time to do them all. Dust everywhere.
- Be nice though and not attract attention! She is very
We were committed and helpful, Morgan added parting.
In the next half hour, Suzan tried to calm down. Not

Grandma wanted to suspect that a struggling unrest. In any

case, it was a lesson. He will not try to justify themselves before him
Morgan. He could believe what he wanted! He was indifferent!
Grandmother dozing. When entering the room Suzan grandmother opened her eyes.
- Oh, God! What are lazy! You must get up immediately. Not
want to miss a moment. I'm so happy you're here.
We have to celebrate your arrival. I will call ...
- No, no, Mamita, Suzan protested. Staying just you. E
better. There will be plenty of festivities at the meeting.
Page 40
- Mamita ... murmured softly old. You're the only one that I
say so. I missed that question.
Suddenly Susannah dull image. Never had wanted to make
harm grandparents. He accused that they had to suffer through long
ahsen. Unfortunately Morgan was right.
- No ... I could not get back soon, she stammered. It would be
I had to wait so long away from you. But circumstances ...
- I'm not asking any explanation, my child, said gently
Grandma. I know you have your reasons well founded! Of course,
my dear. It was beyond your ability to see the good young
pairs, eh? And when ... Fran left us, it was
indecent come ... to take over the succession. But time fades
all the joys, all my troubles. He loves you, I'm sure of it. Not
rush things! During the meeting a lot can happen. You see, the
I thought that organizing the meeting. Everyone wondered
which is the reason for this unexpected meeting, which had the
normally take place over five years. I had my reasons!
Now I am sure, my child. You've come to stay here.
Suzan barely concealed their bitterness. Grandma knew nothing! It Was
the wrong way. He did not know about her daughter's illness and her one thought
love, yet, John. In these circumstances, how could i
confide? For now it was better not to disappoint.
Had to remain alone with her secret oppressive.
Once dressed, cheerful grandmother said:
- Honey, there's no point to stay closed in the house on such
time. Let's take a walk in the park if you want! I always
fascinate outbreak spring. Especially here. In winter
earth is so hard, so frozen! It's a miracle to
See how thaws, they appear green branches announcing
return of sunny days. And I like so much to see old
weeping willow how to fill new shoots and fluffy. You know, now
month snowdrops have already appeared. I love so much! And so I took
all the banter when I planted. Your grandfather said that it will increase
never in the cold. I got the seed of Europe,
fertilizers and lovingly, I managed to make them

flourish. For that I am very proud of me!

Page 41
They took a few steps. Mceii were in bloom. The first magnolias their
purple flowers opened.
- Roses suffered a lot this winter frost,
Grandma sighed. But do not worry. They bark tanned. I'm sure
will usually make some wonderful roses.
Moved by pastoral beauty surrounding them, remained
both silent for a moment the wind did pins to
melopee a fascinating thrill.
- Do you hear? Clotilde said slowly. It's great, is not it? When I
here, that noise reminds me of the waves murmur
oceanfront
When I closed my eyes I could see if my childhood beach.
Victorine your grandmother with her hands planted these pins one by
one. At that time her husband shudder to transform
hostile region in green pastures. As it was decided to
create these hills inhospitable her favorite landscapes. Implanting
pins, brought here something Akaroa region, so dear to her.
- And in her native Normandy, Suzan added. Akaroa pins have
were planted by settlers, is not it? Roses Bourbon and Hazel
were also brought from France.
- If the legend is true, 'said Morgan had come and he
accompany them, weeping willow which comes directly from the guards the
Napoleon's tomb on the island of Saint Helena. You know this thing,
Suzan?
Again, Morgan show charming and full of attention. Yet
was still angry, Suzan had no doubt. But try to
Grandma beware of any emotion. Around the old everything had
be peace and harmony.
Imperceptibly they made the detour property. Suzan retrieve emotion
places dear childhood: small cave carved into the wall of the hill, with
melodious waterfall, cellars where he liked so much to
hide Rock Pandaria you waiting endlessly ancestors
dear travelers return.
Then they took the way home. Suzan surprised him by announcing Morgan
cheerful:
Page 42
- Lunch is ready. First, we provided a wonderful soup
grandmother as only he can do. Then, leg of mutton at
oven and mixed salad. How do you like it?
- It's a perfect menu, Morgan said, smiling. I see you have not
your house specialties. However, after you've spent so many years in
palaces ...

- How much imagination! I do not understand why everyone thinks he

diplomats are some businessmen who live a life of ease,
full of parties. My former classmates wrote me sometimes
letters of which shone envy. I saw the picture in the newspaper
shaking hands with the Queen at Buckingham Palace for my father
the conclusion that it had had to live in extraordinary
passionate. But the reality is different. Everywhere I've been,
I tried to keep a familiar atmosphere. We had as few
employees. The cook came only from big occasions. Do not worry, I know
to do and food and sweets!
He sat down at the table and hungrily gobbles jelly.
- I thought we were in good times long gone, Clotilde sighed.
Old chair the meeting and children quarrel.
- Morgan has already reached the age of wisdom, Suzan joke. He and
I am not of the same generation. His mother was friends with grandmother
My, that says it all!
The man burst into laughter. Remark seemed to amuse him
madness. Suzan was furious. He wanted to take it on the line.
- Remember to ... "so-called" our engagement, Morgan resumed
after quieted. You said you were happy with the idea of living
along with an older man.
Susan blushed remembering.
- Maybe I had an attack of cerebral soft-mindedness. Or maybe
I simply tried to be polite. Just helping me to get out
a deadlock.
Morgan felt a lump in my throat.
- I'm a fool ... And you're wrong, my dear. When you said
those words were sincere.
- If you say so ... should taste the steak with tarragon sauce. E
dietary, and at your age, there are often problems with digestion.
Page 43
- But somehow you have liver problems? It seems to me that you are very
irritable. Or is it perhaps because of lag. There seems to be
very tiring. While I was engaged, were very sincere, Shanna, and not
you'll be able to convince me that it was not. I was tempted, of course,
to see life in pink and hope to see you as much as the provision
which were ... the afternoon I go with Dan to cut queues lambs. Want
come to help us? Once you comprehend better at this. Unless
you do not want. It's pretty unpleasant.
- I hope you have not changed somehow technique! I do not like to see
animals suffering.
- No. Peace be to use the same old way. We tie a
tourniquet; that way sheep do not feel anything, and the risk of infection is much
lower. I'm not an executioner! As animal smell ...
- I do not mind at all, Suzan exclaimed hastily. Am ago

several generations of farmers and I feel more at ease among sheep

than among friends dad.
- I'll serve tea earlier, three and a half ending merry
Grandma. That way I want to be helpful.
It was great to be back here, working fervently under
spring sun. Suzan rediscover familiar heartbeat sensations:
pungent smell of sheep, lambs bleating, barking dogs SL, shore
especially thorough job satisfaction made.
Dan knew nothing about the struggles of Larchwood Vale. He
was simply delighted to see her again Suzan. I admire
honest skill and technique. Despite the long absence not
get out of hand. He worked like a man. Flattered by the compliments
his Shanna found his mood and the day flowed without
trouble.
- How long to stay here, Miss Carew?
- Please, Dan, tell me Suzan! I'm back for good.
He saw Morgan leaving them out of hand rubber ring
who is preparing to raise the tail of a lamb. But silent.
- Grandma will be very happy! Dan exclaimed. I thought
you come only for a while. During the meeting.
Page 44
- In any case, the more I decided to set myself up here. Me
thought to come in a month or two. Less hurried meeting
course of events.
This time, Morgan could not restrain an exclamation.
- You did not say anything about it!
- You never asked. For a long time I want to settle down here.
If I could not do it earlier was due to
family problems. But now all resolved. I thought I
have time to put in place the last detail, to make current
Dad secretary with all the problems. But my grandmother took me
for preparation of the meeting. When Stephanie told me I state
thoughts for a moment ... Actually had already sent some luggage.
- What is the reason of returning home? The question of who feared
was finally released.
But the presence of Dan Cairns makes things much simpler.
- Parents can do very well without me, said
Suzan facetious tone. And I wanted to be with her grandmother.
- You did a great pleasure! Dan intervene. Thought of
rejuvenated when you're back! And he loves you so much! Of course,
we come to see it as often as we can. But it's not the same.
- That's right, strengthen Morgan. And changing the subject, he added: Now
if entered politics, you have all chances to get along with John. And you
I may even be helpful. In this world, politicians have
held many receptions. You could be a perfect host ...

Suzan receive irony as a slap. Obviously, Dan did not understand

allusion. He was not present at the last meeting five years ago. Not
knew nothing about the stormy events that derulaser then.
Shanna felt how comprises anger. Morgan try it again
denigrate John through a slanderous insinuation. Suggested that if
young Forester would do it again yard would do it just out of interest.
How much wickedness! She hated him. A deep wounds, but did not want to leave to see,
thus giving satisfaction.
- If I could help him with something, I do it gladly, said the girl
without raising his voice.
Caught another lamb and immobilize it between your knees But his thoughts
fly elsewhere. Do Morgan was going to try to
Page 45
conquer again? There she was interested, of course, but Larchwood
Vale. In any case, if one day would try to make the yard, would
great pleasure to send him to walk! He had done it once already in
five years ago.
A overwhelm memories.
Someday count on a question of which depended the future happiness
them. The so-called engagement last for some time. She hopes to Morgan
decide once and for all but it does not. And suddenly
Suzan has had enough of this hypocrisy, "pretense". In public,
All appeared to be going increasingly better. These two were the embodiment
young couples that radiate happiness. Reply cheerful all
questions were raised about their future. But, in particular, it was not
none of this. Of! And how much would have liked to throw in
His arms! How much would have liked to hear him telling him love
eternal!
Eventually it was decided to play a card. In the morning
Therefore walked beside the Cross Gerard horseback. They stopped near a
water hole to let the horses to drink.
- Morgan began faltering voice girl, do not you think it's time to
end this masquerade? We played good roles and all
people believed us. Thank you very much. But ... I started
... I feel embarrassed for our situation. I want to go to
Bangkok where they are now mine. I think it would be better. People
will be surprised. Our engagement has been rattled. I did not expect
much fuss. I heard my grandmother at least ten times
blessing heaven that united us ... I can not support all
these lies.
Wait for a clear answer from him had to declare
Finally, to confess his love? Morgan remained silent for some
time. With impudent watched their images in crystal clear water.
He seemed to think hard. Then he said slowly:
- Maybe not heaven united us, but during a long friendship ...

Of course what you say now is not too romantic. But ... We
two get along well and I would love to get married ... I do not
are very young ... We have the same tastes, we have many points
common. Why I try Shanna?
Page 46
Never had such a disappointment. We expect words
passionate, fiery and wild. Instead, Morgan spoke cold,
calculated as if it were signing a contract ...
- Why not? Suzan repeated with trembling voice. Did I say!
For me, marriage is an emotional issue. And you my
talk about common interests, to appeal to families ... and
Love Love what you do? Marriage means devotion,
full dedication for each other's happiness. Between you and me there
nothing like that. No! I will be your wife.
There was a long silence. Then Morgan concluded
simple!
- It is very clear. The problem is solved. No one can get
oblige you to marry me. Unfortunately, nowadays not
mal proceed so. We must confess that I'm sorry. There Are
convinced that we have formed a very suitable mate.
How romantic!
- I'll just announce our engagement tonight dissolution, he
Morgan added a relaxed tone. You ... you could spend your evening
Arpen with family. That would make things easier. And I'll announce
parents that you leave them.
Following his advice, he went to dine at home to Joy and Lennie. Her
returned home late. But he heard.
As predicted, announced the dissolution of the engagement. Everyone
was very upset, but there was nothing to do, is not it?
- Let's take a walk in the park, proposed Morgan.
A glimmer of hope was kindled in her heart. It was again a month
full. The sky was full of stars. They walked like to phage automatic
the elder. At the end of the road stopped.
- No doubt you are right, Morgan said in a voice neutral.
This marriage would have had no future. I would never have known you
fulfill all your wishes. And then ... are you still in shock
separation from John ...
It would have to confess everything at that moment. I should
to explain that he did not understand anything. John not leave because
Fran. He had done it because he loved him, and anyone Morgan
another!
Page 47
But it did not. Morgan was too prosaic. The application of the
marriage looked too much like a business contract. I could have

live with a man who does not love her as much as

loved it. It was better to separate.
He pulled the engagement ring on her finger. It was too wide for her.
And this was a sign of destiny, no doubt. It was not a diamond but
an emerald. When we give, had told him sad!
- When we put an end to this so-called engagement would like to
keep. It fits so well with your eyes.
He put the ring in his fragile her companion. Suzan shaking slightly.
- You promised me that you'll keep Morgan said gravely. It will be
a symbol of our old friendship and maybe you will good luck.
Wear it on your travels and remember the pastor of New Zealand
who tried quite awkward to carry through a
... dear girl's heart.
Page 48
CHAPTER IV
At first Suzan endured difficult Morgan's presence. Him
revive painful memories. She was afraid to betray the secret
in a moment of inattention. But did daily routine to look
restlessness. He worked on the farm and in the evening broken dealing with
meeting. Do not have time to indulge thoughts.
Fortunately, they had to drain three weeks to arrive
guests. They had to come a lot of people. Everyone loved
Clotilde. It was a charming old lady. Maybe it was the last occasion
see her alive? The thought had crossed his sad because all
Most accepted the invitation. The old lady was for all
last link with the past. It was the last witness to hard times
when survival depended on arriving safely in port of ships,
or when it was sometimes impossible to find a doctor. Here women
had saved the lives of those close to reaching sometimes
real operation to cauterize the wound or make any place a
broken leg.
Suzan was the third batch of cookies. You should fill the pantry.
Large and small, all they had to camps.
Last two weeks had passed quietly. John was left
Wellington for a series of negotiations. Morgan is calmer.
Removing his rival slowed his usual aggressiveness. Him
Repeated visits bothered by John, but remained within
politeness. Young Forester did not seem to formalize it. Seem
passionate about politics and not something else. It blindly
politics, perhaps to forget the death of Fran ...
That evening, Morgan returned quite late. Grandma
already slept. Suzan not asked where he came from. Philip Griffiths was
went to Australia. No doubt he had a visit Martina ... But
had no importance. It was free!

Page 49
- I already had dinner, said the man happy, but I'm craving to eat
bacon and eggs. Do not you?
- I crunching something Mamita.
- Come on, come with me! I do not like to sit alone at the table.
Suzan he felt a sweet heat. It is thought by many
or evenings like this: Morgan returning from work and
cheerful chattering about the latest news ... But in a few minutes
shall be separated, each retreating to his room.
Morgan hungrily gobble eggs.
- Since you came, life is more beautiful, 'he said cheerfully. Grandmother
go to bed early every night. I spent many nights alone! And
then how pleasant it is to be spoiled. Nobody has me ready for more
while such kindness.
Shanna leaned overwhelmed by a sweet euphoria. But he recovered quickly.
Obviously, it was nice to be useful, to feel useful. It would be difficult to
Morgan marry and to extend indefinitely the routine
lovely. But not loved. Between them there is never a
true passion. He did not want a man to desire only
bodily. For Susan, love was a subtle blend between the physical and
spirit. First was the spiritual fusion. Often they had heard
father telling her mother:
- Marguerite, I love you so much. What have I done to deserve it
happiness to live with you?
All women dream to hear such words ...
He raised his eyes and met his gaze fixed Morgan that strongly.
Flushed cheeks.
- Sometimes when you had that expression was "engaged" the man whispered.
In those moments, I could not believe that we will not end up
married.
- I did not realize it.
- Do not believe you're not really that insensitive. And you seem to think
sometimes that our union was possible. Then take your face appearance
that, so dreamy ... What wonderful moments of warm intimacy. And
then, suddenly scattered sweet mystery of time joking with
irony about this "The Hoax" as a name. Suzan remaining
move, unable to answer.
Page 50
- Why those precious minutes could not last longer
Shanna?
She did not elude the question, but thinks long before
answer truthfully.
- I was ... I was afraid that I find our situation too
comfortable. The ease that seemed dangerous.
- Why you were afraid?

- Between you and me there never was a true passion. And one
and other later we could meet the man or woman of your dreams.
Then I regretted that we got married just camaraderie.
- That's what I can not answer you anything. And I'm sorry.
Suzan watched him sad. Suddenly, his face handsome, manly, with
regular features hardened. The corners of his mouth fell. His eyes
had acquired a pleading expression and tired. Usually wearing his
Morgan aroused his anger. Now have a kind of pity for him.
- I did not mean to upset you. I try to be honest, that's all. I Would
want to be different but I'm not so.
The man nodded. He looked tenderly. Slowly raise and
took her hands in his.
- I like your way of being, as bluntly. I always
Try to understand. But it's not so easy ... I sincerely believed in
our union victory. But you decided otherwise. And I did not want to
get over your will.
To the great surprise of the face, he lifted his chin and gently
kisses. Fraternal kiss he had nothing in it!
Suzan leaned hot mouth soft and sweet and sensual. Then,
a thrill of pride tried to escape. But squeezing too
... turned his head hard, but a strong man strong arms AND shore
Morgan could feel herself shaking and quivering Shanna.
He Loosen the grip, how can she lift his head. Their eyes
meetings. The Morgan's had a strange expression, nondescript.
- Well ... He stammered Suzan to save face.
- Well, Morgan repeats smiling, just now talking of passion.
The kiss that ... Perhaps I have found happiness together if I were giving
A chance why not indulge in the pleasure of being together? Even
we must strife kept? Great loves were born in peace,
Page 51
be quiet. Want necessarily sunsets, moonlight, statements
romantic? I ...
Suzan she had a brief hesitation before answering.
- I could be missing ...
A gleam of uncertainty in her eyes lit up. Morgan
ready to add something when the phone ringing drives
charm of their privacy.
- To hell with these pislogii! he exclaimed. It's past ten.
Suzan picked: it was Martine.
- How are you, sweetie? she asked cheerfully. I think I forgot
Morgan bag in his car. Ask him if you go to see it
there.
Suzan remained perplexed for a moment. Then, recovering and succeed
respond to natural tone:
- Of course, my dear. He goes immediately to see.

Her companion who sent the message out immediately. He picked up again
shaking machine. He felt compelled to talk to Martine
until returning Morgan. They made an exchange of platitudes.
- Here it came. Yes, your bag in the car. I give Morgan.
Bye, Martine.
He handed Morgan receiver and left the room without a word.
Get straight to her room and immediately slipped into bed. But I was not sleeping
not at all.
Fifteen minutes later the door echoed several discrete beats. Not
said.
A thousand thoughts were agitating. So, after spending almost
all night with Martine, Morgan tried to persuade her to give him
last chance. Aha! It was great! And best of mouth! It almost left
convinced his theories about peace, tranquility; Philip Griffiths times was
blind or an idiot! Had at any cost to drive from heart love
Morgan and give it to oblivion.
Exhausted nerves to the ground, able to sleep at last.
The next morning, Shanna Wear coldly. Morgan did not seem
to realize, but it was undoubtedly not only an appearance as a
anxious grandmother who had decided to serve breakfast
with them.
Page 52
- How to place National Party meeting? asked
merry old.
- The whole Timaru was there, Morgan said, laughing.
So here is where he was last night! Probably stop by Martine
When away from Timaru and then led her back. That meant a
big detour. It was ridiculous! But, after all, had no importance.
Since Eve, more precisely at three o'clock in the morning, Suzan Carew
Morgan was not in love with Blair Hervington!
Companions policy's speech all the time for breakfast
someone her age grandmother was very up to date with everything
happens. No wound kept his memories as do many elderly
- You seem very distracted, my child. You sleep well?
- No. On the contrary, I slept very well, said Suzan
trying to hide the disorder.
I'm a little tired. I think it's because of climate change.
Today will not go out to work. There are a thousand things in the house of
made. I want to look at canned and bottled fruit available.
Morgan seemed disappointed!
- I'll take you to Halfway Creek to see the new channels
irrigation.
- I'll see you another time, the girl replied casually.
He was about to climb into her room when the phone rang. It Was
John. A call from Wellington.

- I have a surprise for you, 'he said cheerfully. Mirabel and Donald
Stennings three-day stay here on their way to Canberra. It would make
great pleasure to see you. I'm free all afternoon and tonight
there is a reception in their honor. I have an invitation for two
people. Would you like to come? You two hours by plane. And I repeat that
would make a great pleasure ... Like me.
Suzan Clotilde turned to Morgan and shining eyes
happiness. From the chip was gone every trace of sadness.
- O, Mamita! Two good friends in London are in Wellington
for three days. John I propose to go to meet him. Have
something against it?
- Absolutely nothing. You're free to do whatever you want, but you're here
have fun.
Page 53
Suzan him he sent John agreement. He had a plane at
eleven and John was going to wait at the airport.
- Sorry, Morgan said dryly when the conversation ends, and
Suzan hung. I can not accompany you to
Christchurch airport. I have a busy schedule. Get
car and leave it there parking. So it would be more practical.
Do not have time to drive to the airport, but not hesitated to make a
round twelve miles to go and take Martine Griffiths.
You should jump up angrily. But now he was indifferent. Get
humming in the room to prepare.
- "Life, life is beautiful" ...
Morgan did not seem too excited.
He got half an hour, dressed in a green costume
spotted wearing over a white shirt. The dress was complemented by
lime shoes and matching bag. Grandma looked approving.
- E formidable how well you look like your mother, my dear! So
as her lovely dress.
- Trying to save face, Suzan said, laughing. After
are the same enfant terrible since I was twelve. Take care of
while you are missing! See that you do crazy! Sorry
I must leave you, but it gives me great pleasure to see again
Stennings.
Morgan pulled away and left the engine running. Sun place
blonde reflexes in his hair and his skin tanned play. Suzan it
look as fascinating as before. But, unwilling to let more
expected, climbing the car. Morgan sat on suitcase white
back seat, then leaned toward her through the open window.
- Sorry to leave, 'he said simply. Last night I was so
close ... Please do not change your mind while traveling.
- To be in your shoes, I would take into account yesterday evening, said
Suzan with a malicious tone. I had a moment of weakness. But

now I see things quite differently.

Morgan frowned.
- And that's that different? he said on an aggressive tone.
He leaned further out the window and capture his lips in a kiss
on. Suzan tried to escape. But he was a prisoner: belt
Page 54
Certainly not allowed him to make a move. Morgan not hurried,
submitting a consolation burning his lips.
- Seat belts also have their advantage he said jokingly
withdrawing half.
- Leave me alone!
- Do not forget a thing! If you marry John you will not be able to
fulfill the dearest dream and live here at Larchwood Vale!
- And why not? Only is our neighbor.
- After rumors, John is going to come to
next election ...
- That would not prevent you stay here, I'm sure. All
community members that region in the blood. Can never
to leave the earth!
- I would not put his hand on fire! Perhaps it would be obliged to do so. After
Fran's death in style living. Cost him his political career
more. Spends more than it can afford.
- So what! Suzan burst out angrily. When I get married I will
After her husband to the end of the world. That should get into your head, Morgan
Hervington-Blair! And do not worry about it for nothing! I'm not going to
Wellington to meet my boyfriend. I'm going to meet
with some old friends, that's all.
And saying these words, pressed the accelerator.
All the way seethe with anger. It was clear that nothing was as
before. Blair family had to withdraw from Linden Peaks and
Stephanie and Brent would install in the field. Morgan deals
Larchwood Vale. If only my grandmother would have found another administrator!
And Forester Gorge risk between foreign hands ... Yes, Clotilde
well that this meeting had been organized. The future was so uncertain.
If John would marry, things would change. Maybe they decide to
Forester remain Gorge. Maybe he was going to keep
property, to see their children will succeed later ... Long ago,
grandfathers transformed this region into a land inhospitable
fruitful and rich ... But being a farmer became increasingly
hard. First car prices increased a lot because
inflation. However Morgan managed to maintain yield
Larchwood Vale. So it was not impossible. But then, his insinuations
Page 55
were true? Does John had really in danger Forester

Gorge, spending more than they can afford? Or was a new

libel meant to denigrate it in her eyes?
In short flight to Wellington, Suzan able to
put right ideas. He liked to travel by air. She was so
ordinary ...
John was waiting at the arrival gate. His silhouette made her familiar
feel calmer. He wore a dark suit elegant. No More
that was tanned him apart from ceilalai businessmen
big city. He stretched his arms, he included in his hands and kissed her cheeks.
Do not wavered at all.
- I am so happy to see you, my dear. Last night, I was
morale: too much work, too many people, too much
protocol. Then I met two Stennings. We chatted,
I told them that dwell on Forester Gorge ... They asked me if
we are friends. When I said yes, they jumped for joy.
- They're cute, eyes sparkling Suzan said. Mirabel
I was a big help when my mother was ill. Sometime was
nurse. She stayed awake whole nights mother's bedside. And
Donald, in turn, claimed morale dad.
John took her arm and led her to the gate Storage.
- I did not know anything about your mother's illness, 'he said in a tone
reproach.
- I kept it secret because grandparents. Even now, when
things have ended well, Grandma should not know anything. Mother
one to tell him when he comes. Seeing her in peak form, Mamita not
will have no reason to fret. I ... I long
I wanted to go back, but my mother's illness has overturned plans. I Guess
grandmother wondered why I stubbornly remain long
far from it.
John approached her and looked into her eyes.
- Grandma thought he knew why. After it, I was afraid to
back. Some did not want to open old wounds, to remove again
out the old trouble. I for one I decided to make plain and
I wanted to come after you in Europe, Canada, anywhere.
- When you thought grandmother testified that?
Page 56
- In winter had a strong bronchitis. Morgan was a
very bad mood. Inveigh against you. According to
he ought to be near her grandmother instead live a glamorous life in
thousands of miles away. Grandma took your resolute defense. Only
know! When you give someone becomes tigress. In short, Morgan
never insisted. And I I decided to go looking for you. But instead of
I go, you came! ... You see the old man over there? E Minister
agriculture. I can not avoid him and not greet him. I hope you do not mind?
Suzan soon felt relieved by this interruption. John

going too fast. And then, he was delighted to meet

Minister. Her father knew him well and spoke often about it.
Then they retrieve their luggage and duser machine's service
John. He was very nervous because of unforeseen encounter all the way
talk about it.
Suzan was delighted to meet again friends. At reception
of fun. Already knew most of those present and I
easily conquer the others. He was so charming. John had all night
admires mood and self confidence.
After reception at the residence they went together two Stennings.
Some friends we borrowed a small double apartment. It was much
nicer than the hotel. They drank tea, and John a run on
Shanna his room before leaving.
- I feel a childlike joy! John said he steals alone.
Your friends leave the day ahead. You will be mine alone.
We can continue our discussion quietly.
- But we will not get anywhere. I do not want to tie anyone
John. I just want to live quietly.
John hesitated before answering softly
- Well, we'll see! Maybe with time ... Good night, dear
my!
He kissed her cheek and smiled slightly embarrassed freely.
- You See? I know how to behave with the ladies. But you do not lose as always
easily scared my shepherdess.
Suzan was happy to be alone. Spend a wonderful evening.
Raised in business and diplomacy, loved receptions full
Page 57
Fast ... But thence south, located at the foot of the mountain, was
Larchwood Vale. Her universe and her only great love.
Page 58
CHAPTER V
During our short stay full Suzan fun. Wellington was
a wonderful city. On the streets, the trees were in bloom. The boats
Recreational swinging blue water of the small port. No cloud, no
covered the sky.
John accompany him most of the day in most of the shares
s. It looked like her father. A passionate Policy. During lunch the
business know how to rise to the conversation and John not hidden
admiration. He was delighted to herself. Her companion pointed tactful.
He did not even mention it to their former connection.
Suzan found his melancholy plane. At the airport had to be
asunder. And John had his car waiting for him in the parking ... We seem
sorry that separates him. I would very much have liked to see his face
Morgan would have returned if accompanied by John.

But the story has sometimes unexpected tricks. A reckless driver

buffer John's car and the car had been taken to a station
service. Would last for repair.
- Fortunately are here Suzan intervene when they heard the news. I Would
could be your driver this week.
They climbed into her car and out of town.
- Let's go to breakfast at the crossroads Selwyn, John suggested.
I hope you're not in a hurry to go home.
- I have no particular problem. Why!
- I promised to pass on to Lowells. He could not attend
Committee meeting the grain. You have to make a brief presentation
discussed. He lives on the road to Rakaia, near the coast.
It's a beautiful region. And there colonization pioneers have done wonders.
Another time was completely barren and desolate place. Today is a land
rich and flourishing.
Parking the car stopped in the restaurant. Entering the courtyard
cross with a break just emerging. Suzan could not retain their
Page 59
exclamation. In the car he recognized Morgan
Martine. Both very elegant, sober him with a suit, she a
Open costume, do not noticed the two who entered.
- Nice of them! John said mockingly. Poor
Philip died of boredom in Australia while his wife is doing
incredibly well.
Suzan not answer. His heart was beating wildly.
- I hope I do not consider myself a purist, continues John. But type
This exasperates me.
- I find that this way of being not fit Morgan,
protest. Since I know it was a fair man.
- I take no pleasure to speak evil, said John after
a brief hesitation. But ... I have to put you in touch. If you do not, you
risk payment and your mother very expensive consequences.
- Want to talk about art! Morgan thinks a man
very honest.
- Of course! I do not imagine it to me as a card dealer
credit. But works diligently too much, Shanna. A simple employee
would give much trouble. Certainly he had some second thoughts: to
possession of part of the field, for example. Advocate mother
is your lawyer's. If he wants to talk to Clotilde, like
and Morgan to be present. Larchwood you right back to you. Do not let him
to steal what is yours. At last! Let's not talk about it and
better take advantage of this beautiful day!
The meal was excellent. John chatted cheerfully, but Susan was with
thought elsewhere. He could not believe that Morgan was cheating, and
however, her companion stood reasoning. As

farmer seductive touch with Martine, it was undeniable.

After they finished eating headed for Mata Flat. The region was
Lowells superb and the two charming men. In some
occasions, Ms. Lowells young woman throws glances
nuances of meaning. Men installation room to discuss business.
Women walk through the garden they made then getting back in the house
serve tea. Towards five o'clock two guests went off the road.
John was driving. Suddenly Susan decided to clarify things.
Too heard a lot in the last days! It was not hard to lead
Page 60
conversation as she wanted. The Lowells all had talked about
agriculture, productivity, efficiency. Launched two to three platitudes on
subject, then asked the most natural tone possible!
- How's the Forester Gorge? Are you satisfied with
results?
- Not really. It's a tough time for everyone. Age
golden 60s ended much. But that's not all ... I have something
problems.
- I would not want to pry.
- You have the right to know. I had bad luck. To assure my future
and my eventual offspring, we have made a significant investment. I have
invested a great deal of capital that we had. Unfortunately, not
walk. I lost everything. Then he got sick Fran. It took
to resort to expensive treatment ... gave me great flood
blow. Of course the government gave me compensation, but
so little ... In short, are in a delicate situation. The domain is
mortgaged almost entirely, but I hope to come to Uman. I'm not
about. I played the last card, right? Policy can help me
more.
John forced smile.
- As much as I wanted to talk to you about it. But I had
could. You do not want to hide my business situation, Shanna. It would
be dishonest of me.
Suzan shook his head sadly. I felt sorry for him. Poor John! Not
was his fault. A thought does well, and ...
- I ... I feel a little guilty, she added softly. Five years ago,
I triggered a storm in your life and Morgan. The situation was so
delicate ... Since then I dare not trust my judgment. I have
made too many mistakes. No more than to live peaceful
grandparents around. Sorry to trouble you know involved in
financial. But do not worry! And your ancestors went through moments
heavy. And always passed over them. Forester Gorge has been
already mortgaged. You will definitely find a solution. I need time
to solve my problems but after the meeting, I see things
clear. Hence, let us remain good friends and nothing more!

If you do not do it for me, do it for Grandma ...

Page 61
John patted her shoulder in a friendly.
- Agree. I will be your most loyal friend. I am happy
I could put you on guard about Morgan. Five years ago
you were so in love with him! Finally, now have more
mind and experience. But you know them both under the same roof ...
Suzan try to smile.
- Relax! Most of the time we are at loggerheads.
It was very hard to stay so long away from my grandmother. Nor
I have not even explained the real reasons for my absence.
Her happiness means more to me than anything! Look I
come to you. I'm in a hurry. Clotilda think it seemed an eternity
since I left. Goodbye, John.
Arriving at Larchwood Vale, Suzan was very surprised to
see break off in front of the house. In the middle of the court there were two
small suitcases and two waterproof navy carefully folded. Of
Whose was it?
He would soon find out. We headed for the back door when appeared
two children running silhouettes. They immediately recognized. There were girls
Martina, Dorothe and Roberta, with her hair red like their mother.
Must have had ten twelve years old now.
- The mother just told us to take with us suitcases! cackle
Dorothee. Of! I'm still here. Hey, Suzan! I have not seen
I heard a long time but always talking about you. Morgan
mother talks about you.
- It's very nice of him, Suzan replied smiling. Hi There,
girls!
- Wow! Roberta exclaimed. What you chic costume. You have it in Paris?
- No, my dear, London. Well, what do you two here?
The girls responded the same time.
- We move here and stay with our brothers Graham and ribbon,
pair to help on the farm. That way they can lend a hand
help to work after school. Now it's more work. Morgan us
said that we will feel at ease and that you could take care of us.
You convince yourself that we are well bred. My mom always says. We
prepare meals, do the beds, to clean up. Morgan us
Page 62
forced to promise that we will not get bored with our chatter. Hope
do not get bored, eh?
Suzan not understand anything.
- And I like chattering provides them as they face tone
be serious. I am delighted to see you here. A well have fun
together. You seem very fun two girls. But ...

- That's right! Dorothe said seriously. My dad always says, "What

I made the mistake to give me three sky like clowns? "Talk
new and mother, of course.
- I think we will get along very well, says Suzan. But
tell me ...
- You know the joke with the dog and sweep? Roberta asked instead of
listen. It was a dog ...
Fortunately, Morgan appeared in the doorway.
- You can not in any way to get along with these imps, he said
smiling. Allow me to explain. Martine went to Philip in
Australia. He must stay longer than expected
initially. I was there this morning when he called. Graham me
summoned to help him because a sheep and broke his leg. Philip has job
for four days in Grande Barriere and long, Martinez
wanted to get there. You know how women! She hesitated a little, the
form. You should have heard: "My dear, but it's impossible! tried
Morgan thinning imitate her voice. Tomorrow at three must
go to the dentist, then the women's committee meeting
National Party ... In short, Morgan concluded, resuming his
his voice naturally, I took the phone from his hand and I promised
Philip: "Do not worry, old man, arrives! A get on the next plane. "
And so I did.
Morgan winked them girls.
- Philip Martin and almost never have holidays, 'he added
seriously. And to sit all day with these little monsters is not easy!
- I'll be obedient as two dolls, provide Roberta. Say,
Morgan, now we can go a little ride ponies?
- Tomorrow, after school! Now we have to help Suzan. After
air travel must be very tired. I'll give you
Page 63
sheets and you climb into your room to make your bedding. Afterwards
to come to help prepare meals.
I bought some great steak grilled them. May
We salad and dessert peaches. Come on, girls! Know
Shanna you do, you've a great time in Wellington?
Suzan was completely disconcerting. With a quarter of an hour before it
imagining hates his meetings with a woman passionate and responsible
married. Now he had to face a man with a very parental behavior
and who sent without hesitation alleged mistress in Australia to
spend a second honeymoon with his husband. Determined work
men are unpredictable creatures! Who do I stop believing? On
John and Morgan! Each brace is to use weaknesses
to discredit the other. John accuses Morgan he wants to
Larchwood Vale seize AND that is related to Martine. On the
Moreover, Morgan emphasized the financial failures

his rival.
In any case, the attitude of the two equally disliked.
After dinner, John went into the run.
- I brought back earrings, he says cheerfully. Thou hast left
night ... if you bothered. I found in the pocket of the suit.
Hi, girls! What are you doing here?
Girls explaining his situation full of seriousness:
- Parents have gone to a second honeymoon. How many months
honey can do?
Everyone laughed.
- In principle, one, explains Morgan, but so is called
voyage they make married people to be themselves less
alone.
- Aha! Thank you, Morgan. You at least explain to us ... People
are unlikely to ever answer our questions. How can we
learn if we are not ever say anything?
- Now, quickly, salon! he said smiling. You can look at
TV until the ninth hour. Then to bed!
- But Mrs. Larchwood promised me that I learn to work
tapestry, Roberta protested.
Page 64
- We will start tomorrow morning lessons, replied smiling
Grandma. Tonight everyone needs a good sleep. Do
Morgan says, kids!
Suzan goes to her room early. Waiting to fall asleep, passed in
review the events of recent days. Yes, Conchita she was tired of
this stupid rivalry. The two men behaved like
bieandri. She dreamed a beautiful stranger would appear to
Larchwood Vale ... Do not know yet, but this unknown, this third
man would soon make an appearance ...
Page 65
CHAPTER VI
Suzan woke up half an hour earlier. That way have
time to cope with the additional work before waking up girls, but
through grandparents hear laughter in front of the camera. He arranged
dignity gown and enters the room.
- Not good to wake up so early Mamita she chided them slowly.
Grandma needs rest.
The two children left their eyes on the ground, but my grandmother was not
the same opinion.
- Leave them alone! I am pleased to see so many youth around
my. And then, stay in bed until breakfast. I'm not tired at all.
You know I have called them. I heard them giggling in their room ...
I remember the good old days were always children

here.
Susan turned her head to hide the disorder.
- Come and sit with me, 'said the old lady slowly. Take advantage least
The beautiful morning before going to work. Look! It
I see trees of the field Hervington there! How beautiful are
morning light!
Suzan linger a little, then leaned girls grandmother. Have so
done!
First you need to prepare breakfast. A closely
oranges, boiled eggs, made coffee. Morgan does not leave too
than expected. He plateau prepare for Clotilde. As every
morning by a small vase that sat dish today have a
daffodil. Yesterday was a hyacinth.
- I'm a hopeless romantic, he said every time,
smiling.
His gesture is it totally uninterested? Perhaps John had
right. Damn! He thought back to the two schemers. Of!
These men!
Page 66
The girls ate with relish breakfast. They were already dressed.
Morgan brought them to the crossroads oak, where he had to take
school bus.
Suzan passed then washed. The day before, Morgan, slightly embarrassed, he
had a large bag of dirty laundry.
- Martine did not have time to deal with this before departure.
Of course I did not want to give them to you but the girls need
Clean exchanges. I reassured her by saying that it will not scare a portion
Moreover board. Another he might cry, but you, Shanna, which are a
worthy descendant of pioneers, you do not get out of the way when required
to help someone.
He put the laundry in the washing machine and started. After all, there was no
a horror! Rather it was a pleasure to lie all these clothes on
sun in the garden.
- I hope you do not mind me, that I have taken this drudgery,
Morgan insists. To help you, I'll do the dishes.
Suzan assured him smiling. He was in a great mood.
All went could not be better. Grandma was spoiled and
surrounded with love. Children sit beside her on the bed, his
listened quietly thoughtful words. The tasks were fair
shared by all. Suzan glad meet dozens of small things
that make a woman indispensable cusnd a button, preparing
mass ... Morgan went to inspect pastures. We sat in girls
bus station. Suzan began dusting the room humming.
Grandma smiled satisfied to see so good provision is deep
her chair and fell asleep.

Dan invites to breakfast. Suzan prepared fish fillet with mayonnaise,

food then everyone was mad.
- Life is much more beautiful when you come back, exclaimed cheerfully
serving youth is still another portion. Until you came, no question of
hot meals for lunch! And then, the owner has more free time,
which will allow us to work with more gain.
- Dan talks so as to not offend me, 'said the grandmother
gently, but did not like to leave me alone too long. Then
found a lot of excuses as to pass the home: indeed they
forgetting something, either that they made a phone call. Trying to do so
Page 67
wear as normal, but I understand them play from the beginning. Clearly
that all this late in labor. Now you're here, my child! It's a
true blessing!
- It is true, hardening Morgan unusually harsh voice.
His eyes and face they met.
- A very nice blessing, 'said Dan. I for one, love
blondes. That's why I could not resist the charm of Agns.
- But my hair is not blond, Suzan protested. Faster is
deleted color hemp.
- Do not be silly, 'said Morgan. Your hair is lovely. It has
color of honey collected by bees from the mountain meadows.
- It seems to me that the color is erased, Suzan stubbornly.
This morning we watched two little redheads and felt
so to them deleted.
- I do not understand them at all women! Dan said pouring and
drink. Nature overwhelms you with gifts and you do not know to appreciate.
Agns mine, for example, decided to paint brunette. After
her mind, to be fashionable and must have raven hair.
But I left it. I explained that if they dare to paint
I would pounce on the first blonde would appear. It's stupid, is not
right? When you fall in love with a woman, love as it is. Do
declarations of love a girl Scandinavian and after a few moments
turns into a glamorous Iberian.
You were wrong on goods. Let's take for example Martine and
Philip. Philip did not like redheads. He met his wife AND
then no longer like something else. And Martine is crazy about him,
Although it has nothing seductive. I always said that women are
like men brunette blue eyes.
- With that disagree, unwittingly Suzan intervene. Thousand
I always liked blondes well built more than
Hispanic brunette olive complexion ...
He stopped suddenly, blushing to the top of the ears. Morgan had
glanced AND inquisitive enhance its more disturbing. Why
said such stupid? Suddenly turned his head to hide

embarrassment. Grandma seemed to enjoy sumptuous.

Page 68
- Okay, Morgan concluded, to work! After such a feast
will not be easy. Ladies, bye! Let us not wait to
Tea, we have a lot of work. Day laborers working with Brent will bring
girls home.
Talking with ease usual, but it looked all the time
Suzan with a strange insistence.
After finishing the dishes, cooking girl grabs. Prepare a stew
pork and let it simmer. Knead the dough
for a pie potatoes, peeled vegetables that have put them
Later boil, then grabbed board. Finally made shirts
small colorful one another by a mosaic. Suzan felt
incredibly well. A much loved grandmother. Lord, give him
many years of life! she pleaded.
Towards four o'clock all the clothes were ironed and carefully folded.
Prepare tea you serve in a small room behind the house
where now, at this hour of the afternoon, the sun shone all
power. Comfortable chairs covered with pastel colored covers you
invites to rest. On the shelves were resting nicely bound books
skin. Favorite chair near the fireplace reign of Clotilda and basket
Hand work. After tea, the drowsy warmth, old slumber.
Someone rings the front door. This happens rarely, regulars
always entered the house through the back door. From the window, he saw Suzan
a taxi freed itself. Weird! Do not wait for anyone.
A dark-haired man waiting in the doorway. dressed in a suit
beige as wearing the tropics, he was holding a suitcase expensive
Suede. It could be taken as a stranger.
Suzan studied him for a moment, stunned. Then burst cheerful:
- Vere Louis! What a pleasant surprise! Of! How about to not know you.
Come in, please!
The young man crossed the threshold, she had a slight hesitation, then leaned forward and
hugged host.
- You have a formidable visual memory! We have seen so many
years.
- You've come to the reunion? Grandma did not say anything. Hope
you will stay with us for a while.
Page 69
- Meeting? No, I am not aware. What a happy coincidence!
Relax, do not hurry. I have a few trusted people who
My business deals in Tahiti.
- Then you'll be able to attend the meeting! We felt so
sorry that I saw last time. Fran was desolated. But it would
have to talk about it. What misfortune! You are traveling for

business?
Again, she had a slight hesitation Louis, but smiled.
- Indeed, I have to meet someone in Wellington.
I announced my arrival anyone here just for you
make a surprise. I am pleased to learn that the grandmother is still alive.
- I'll take care of your room, Suzan said cheerfully. Unfortunately,
it's your favorite room. There we have installed on girls Martina
staying here for a few days. Martine Do you remember?
Just came from England and work with Joy and Lennie Logie in
Alpenlinden. But let's go see her grandmother quickly! Me
wonder if you will recognize.
- I'm not so sure. From a certain age, memory begins
to play tricks.
- Let me look at you a little! Leaving aside the elegance
tropical're as before.
Grandmother recognized him immediately. Receive them with open arms and eyes
dampen the excitement. He then kissed her hand and kissed her cheeks. Ah!
His French chic!
- Dear lady ...
- Come on, do not figure this out! Tell me how you told me once,
Aunt Clotilde. Do not know how I'm good to see you again.
How much time has passed! And we've written at all, you sluggard! When your sister
moved here, we thought that we will see more often. But the
Unfortunately, he adds his voice trembling, left us so
quickly ... Poor France! But you, how are you? Are you climbing?
- No, aunt, for the moment, no. I launched the business.
Having to go to Wellington I could not resist the temptation to go
at Larchwood Vale. But I did not expect to find Suzan
here. I thought he was in London.
Page 70
- How did you know are in London? Suzan asked surprised. Not
I sent a letter to Tahiti for a long time.
- Your father is a famous man, 'said Louis freely. In
you can read the international press often echoes movements
s. Stay here long?
- I hope forever.
A young eyes twinkle light.
Suzan went to prepare coffee and not long after it
came back with a large tray with steaming cups of coffee and a plate
biscuits. We address a young smile. Yesterday was a teenager
charming, today, a handsome man.
- I asked her Aunt Clotilde least put me in touch.
I want to know everything. Who else is here, who married who ... Morgan
bachelor's all? Amazing! Because Martina?
- Oh no! said the old lady. He had a fleeting passion for it,

that was it. Actually she married very young with Philip. Do you
remember?
- I remember Martine, but Philip, no. Curious,
added with an embarrassed air. Two years ago, I had a serious accident
South america. Since then, my memory playing tricks.
- Can not it be forgotten Philip! Suzan said. He gave us below
Oak. I climbed the tree like monkeys, but then,
I could go down.
- Of course! Now I remember. I remember the day
I left the pond with a broken boat that took water. Morgan us
ear shot.
- You deserved it the most! Severe said Morgan had just come.
How are you, Louis? The wind brings you?
- I was close and I returned earlier Poor Fran ...
After a few moments of silence Morgan resumed:
- It's very sad. What about you? You took your father's business? E
brave of you. Fran told me of his dreams enrichment.
A bankrupt after all, is not it? And in honor of the proverbial
all creditors paid until the end of his wealth
personal.
Page 71
- Yes, it is. It ruined but died with a clear conscience. It was a
formidable man. I chose to take over a completely different way. Me
handle fabrics, cotton fabrics for beautiful Tahitian.
Screams of kids ntrerupser discussion. The two girls rushed in
room. He kissed Morgan, Suzan, grandmother and suddenly stopped
alien face. Louis rose and bowed ceremoniously:
- Bana day, ladies! No doubt you girls
Martine and Philip redoubtable disturbing.
The girls looked at him confused.
- Here they Roberta and Dorothe, made the introductions Suzan.
Girls, I present Louis Rossignol's brother Fran and very
My distant cousin of Tahiti. Yup. Rossignol's relative in Akao.
The girls were there on vacation, explains Shanna turning to
Louis. Pierre Margot and the big house turned hotel, while
Aunt Elise arranged in one of the small museum pavilions.
Due to their ingenuity managed to keep the.
- How old is Aunt Elise?
- We are about the same leat, said Clotilde outlining a smile.
I will not say more. We both had a great chance to be
cherished grandchildren. Louis, if you want we can go together so
see. We can spend the night there and go back to
overnight. Unfortunately it will be impossible to stick more to it
meeting and approaching the shore we still so much to prepare.
- I'd be delighted, 'said Louis, but I want to

bother. If you stay here do not want to be treated like a guest. Zin
greatly to be too helpful. That way my family will forgive
can long silence.
- You're a thousand times welcome grandmother said with a strangled voice
emotion. We do not I forgot the little boy once, no
memory of your sister ...
Putoaicele came out to play outside. The remainder could therefore
speak quietly.
- How is my brother? Louis asked. Doubtless you
be required to meet him.
Page 72
- It's inevitable, 'said Morgan. But fortunately was launched in
political and travels a lot. Comes from time to time on here and must
I confess, I'm not too excited about his visits.
Suzan startled, outraged. He looked at the two men seemed somewhat
embarrassed.
- I do not remember it too well, simply said Louis. Curiously,
right? Instead, you, Morgan, I would always recognize! Fran na
was very happy with it ...
- Was he to blame! Suzan intervene. Fran did not like
region. John could not do anything ... You've known
never, Louis. It's a nice boy. Unfortunately during the
you spent the holidays with us, he was at school. Morgan, you can not
to be forgotten. Just us out of trouble many times both!
Spontaneous, Suzan Forester had taken the young defense. Louis was wearing
spades, he felt. And yet he had no reason! John was a husband
Fran excellent.
- Come to show you the room, the girl said the newcomer. After dinner we
all go take a walk in the park. Evenings begin to
extend and sunsets are incredibly beautiful.
We must seize this!
The arrival of Louis greatly relaxed atmosphere. Suzan and Morgan
None of this is hardly alone. She was not troubled
the constant anxiety that betrays. Curiously, Louis no longer
knew how to ride. This was probably a result of his accident.
However, very sporty, he got back in the saddle and made quickly
progress. Soon he lost and regained affected air
former stuntman.
Working decided reserve life surprises! Hearing heard of
Climbers conquests of her cousin, Suzan and I imagined a man
simple, less refined. But the business world turns quickly
the man. John was another proof!
Suzan meeting of the two men knew was inevitable. In order to
May settle things, she and John Morgan had demanded to widen the
many relatives and friends who knew him when he was little Louis.

Everyone was eager to see him again. As for Louis, he was

Page 73
delighted. He was hard to recognize everyone and after
wrong for the second time, he turned to Shanna laughed and said:
- My former playmates were changed much. He no longer
know. Be nice, my little cousin seventh hospital and
explains to me.
Suzan laughed and made the introductions. When his turn comes
John, the young Tahitian smiling said:
- I am delighted to see you again! You seem to have embraced career
politics? It's a good idea. Me personally I would get bored. However I have
Just great admiration for politicians they have in hand the destinies of countries,
is not it? We are all indebted.
Suzan appreciated his attitude. Not allowed to see anything
his antipathy. Oddly, it seemed that John became the black sheep
their small communities. Several times unpleasant to hear
his address.
- It was never one of us, had told a neighbor.
He looks like his mother. I tried to integrate into our little
group, but always kept aside. And now, with his policy!
On the other hand, John Forester did not seem to appreciate at all arrival
his brother-in Tahiti. He came often to Larchwood Vale,
as if he wanted to watch the course of events.
In the afternoon, all the men had gone on horseback to inspect
irrigation system. Morgan was very proud of it and we wanted to
Louis show. Edith's maid telephoned John
Susannah.
- Our freezer is almost empty, she explains. I know you
... prepared a tray of sausages, eh? Why not bring them here? Le
I will keep up the meeting. That way you'll have more room for
other goodies.
Suzan welcome the proposal. As the big day one
would not come empty handed, promising to bring neighbors
pies, sausages etc. There is a risk that place. Load aspic in
several large cardboard boxes and put them in the car. When she arrived, Edith a
help arrange them. Then the two women sat in a cup
tea.
Page 74
- My husband and I are very happy here, she said, sighing.
Poor Mr. Forester needs us.
- Without you it would not be done after the death of Fran. It is impossible
for a single man to take care of such a house. What a tragedy
terrible ... My poor cousin was so beautiful, so
cheerful and lively! When it arrived it was like a ray of sunshine.

He laughed again and it was so good.

- Indeed, I've heard that. But when I
I knew it had changed much.
Wait child. At that time my husband and we have installed
here. The doctor gave him permission not to be bothered. A year before
was very ill. However, pregnancy is going well. He wished
so much a baby! He liked to knit. Always knit for
"Love of her life," she says smiling. One day me
confessed: "Love one child is so pure, Edith. A child
you love yourself, not your wealth and assets "...
Susan frowned. Why had Fran words
they?
- Finally, pregnant women often have strange ideas.
- Indeed. Lord, I'll never forget how he died! I have
took her to the maternity hospital in Christchurch where he had the joy to see
girl. Doctors were nervous, but did not want to say anything. From
Unfortunately, Mr. Forester was gone a trip when
pain started. I left her. At dawn they gave me her permission
I see. It was so beautiful! Rested. He was white as a sheet. He
showed her little sleeping in her cot.
- Now, my life will change, I murmured. I'll be in
Finally happy. Look at her, Edith! See what's nice? It's my daughter, at
My most valuable asset on earth. Nobody will be able to take me! E
mine! He fell asleep and did not wake up exhausted ... Little has never
she followed her and after a few hours. Maybe it was better that way. After
Therefore ...
Suzan had learned from my grandmother that was. John came back in a hurry
and found his wife and daughter dead. It was crazy with grief.
- ... I lied ... confess governance. When asked me to
repeat her last words, I said that he wondered, that ceased
Page 75
to talk about it. But it was not so. But my lie
Mr. John quiet, well made, you know? Lord Louis
I wrote the truth. It was only after he had returned accident.
He sent me a beautiful letter. Then, of course, I talked to
your grandmother with Morgan.
- Why Morgan? Suzan asked quietly wiping a tear.
- Because he is a good man. He always took care of France. On
during illness came to see her very often. He was the only one who knew to
make you laugh. I mean really laugh, really. When Morgan
was here, France was no longer the same. He came to see her during
pregnancy. She feared lest white disease to a negative
on child development. Doctors had given him all but insurance
however they were afraid. Then a silence Morgan, told him
stories ... God ... I wasting my time and I still have much work to

made. I hope that somehow you will not repeat what I told you, is not it?
- I know how to keep a secret, a young voice ensures excited.
Thank you told me all this stuff. You so much
the poor Edith Fran ... But ... why you wanted to make me learn
the truth?
She hesitated a moment, then began to speak with obvious
Sincerely:
- 'You have once been engaged to John. You could
decide to go back to him, I know, out of pity for his situation.
There is a lamentable situation, Miss. But ... look like
Fran too much poor. This man could not make you happy.
If she remarries, will make only his career. For him,
politics is above all ...
Suddenly silent. In laughter, John and Douglas, husband of Edith,
entered the room to take tea. It was unbelievable! Everything seemed so
unreal! Suzan was possible wondered how such a drama? John
man seemed so simple, cute ... For a moment he tried
to imagine how it could have been: Fran, sitting here in front of them, in
As mistress of the house, bouncing cheerful girl ... And she, Suzan, radiating
happiness, married for two years now with Morgan.
But all this were merely a dream. Two years ago Morgan
I can not say the magic words that would have made the dream a reality.
Page 76
Could it be condemned? This story was so complicated! And his
Morgan liked things simple.
Page 77
CHAPTER VII
The following days passed quiet. But he was troubled by Suzan
Edith's confessions. It was clear that she wanted to put on guard.
The daughter of a diplomat, an expert in the art of the protocol, future heir
a large area, it was not her ideal prey for John? Today
had to admit lack of discernment. But the future would
more lucid?
Supposed to look old Morgan. But when being watched
He felt a chill deep inside secret.
Every gesture, every word of a deeply touching, whether it was
evening in the lounge when preparing their bait fish, or
afternoon, when his vigorous figure stood in the sunlight
Besides sheep pens, and when the sun's rays playing in his hair
blonde. I admire the charm and ease it appeared at dinner in a
casual suit, to make fun grandparents. It was both a man of
earth, nature and a rare elegance.
One afternoon, Suzan went looking for him, having to
send a message. There may be gone too far because it

spotted mare tied near Great Oak. Latter path that

went into the hill and stopped suddenly. Discover silhouette
Morgan, still, stopped in the middle of the meadow. With outstretched hand, Morgan
call softly, as he had often seen making to
lure a frightened animal.
Suzan held his breath and waited. Suddenly, out of the bushes came a
sheep began to slowly approaching. At every step he stopped
incredulous. The poor animal! A piece of barbed wire is
caught in her wool and meat probably be dug.
When the pot is coming, Morgan grabbed her and pulled beside him, holding her
with hope. He began to speak softly like a scared child.
Slowly, the wire loose skin and researchers looking for a
wounds. It seemed that there was nothing seriously because after gave him a
Page 78
friendly slap, which raises sheep released her gentle eyes on him
and began to bleat easy.
- Thumbs Up! exclaimed Suzan cheerful clapping their hands.
Morgan smiled, proud as a child. She ran toward him with image
beaming with pleasure.
- It was great! Morgan, you are a true magician with
animals.
And with a disarming spontaneity rose on tiptoe and kissed him.
The man laughed happily.
- It happens often, but never in public. Animals
are so scared! Usually dashed at the slightest noise.
You were still very quiet. No I did not hear you coming.
- Dared not even breathe. I was afraid only
Grise not begin to neigh.
- If Louis had gone on here, it certainly would not have missed
kick.
- Poor Louis! It's so clumsy animals! What
weird! When he was little he knew very well to handle sheep. It seems that
has got out of hand.
- Have you noticed the thing? As a child, he felt like a fish
in water. It's like having blood work in the fields. The Beginning
Rossignolii were farmers from father to son. He is different. Him
really like to ride, but you can not put him to base
Harrow or clean a horse stable. Finally, it's a good boy! You ca n't
to ask more. But I give you friendly advice, concluded Morgan
making them eye: do not fall in love with him. It's not made for
Larchwood Vale!
- You're kidding, Suzan said, offended. Do not forget that we are
relatives!
- You spoke seventh cousins! That has no importance! E
a boy seductive. Be careful, history may repeat itself ...

Exasperated, Suzan turned away. The sun brought in hair

golden reflections.
- You unbearable with your eternal tips! Thank you to you
enjoy life instead of making the psychologist!
Page 79
He grabbed her shoulder and turned to him. The Clash eyes.
Morgan's face was stern. Wrinkles corners of the mouth is
emphasis. He frowned.
- What about you? What right have I to judge character? You think you know me
so good? You're wrong great, honey. I suggest to enjoy
life. Very well! You implement your advice.
A swept his strong arms tightly. Took hold with
brutality on her lips. Susannah heart was beating his chest to break. Really
He was aware of her feelings? He did not want to offer this
satisfaction. Once again he had taken unawares. He felt a leave
powers when he heard his heart beating to the rhythm of his heart.
With bated breath, Morgan is detached from it and burst into a
lol. It was so close, so close to her ...
- Morgan! Suzan murmured with a reproachful tone that is wanted.
The man laughed even more.
- Did you like and you, is not it? Confess, my beautiful! There was
a lovely kiss! Damn! I reproach that are too sparingly.
Open your eyes! True, I advise you not to think
increase as a slut. But there's the rest. We both love the plain
and animals. We read the same books. We like the same fun. And ... in
some ways we understand very well, 'he added with a gleam
the sinister look. Why pretend to not see and did not hear?
Your applause just now I went straight to the heart. Let
stick to that stage! Now back! Deserves a
cup of tea. Carnal pleasures open appetite.
- How? ... The pleasures of the flesh? Suzan muttered, blushing confusing.
Come on, Morgan was just a kiss ...
- It takes a start in all! If one day we
was really lonely without your lovely grandmother and her anger to
see it with binoculars ... I do not know what will happen then,
beautiful shepherdess!
A affectionately hugged.
- Come on! No need to get that air of offended awning! Yourself
feel obliged to look shocked when not actually kiss you disliked,
is not it? Recognized fault is half forgiven.
Page 80
Suzan looked forward, ready to burst. But his big eyes filled
intimidation goodness. He tried in vain to refrain but in the
laughed ago.

Both laughed heartily as children. Suzan was just about

to lose breath. Morgan grabbed her arm and helped her recover.
- Now ... Now I'm better, hiccups face.
- That is good. Put order in ideas.
- New take everything too seriously, continued with her usual Suzan
sincerity. But it is not our fault. In this situation, everyone
are expected to behave like enemies. We wait, we observed. E
hard to act natural in these circumstances.
- Please, let's start from scratch. Relations between us were
completely distorted by our so-called engagement. Everything was too
quickly. Love needs time to flourish. Watch them on
our ancestors. Their hearts were chosen yard for months
whole before they make a statement. Hold On! Look behind you there!
Turn around slowly! Big cock wants to seduce the chick
black. Strut, inflate. Do you understand now why I wanted to
say. Do not move!
Suzan tried to do their best but could not refrain more
time and again burst out laughing.
- You're an idiot adorable! You embark on a grand speech
history to finish with romantic love cock.
Her laughter crystalline Morgan puts in big trouble.
- Do not mock me! Let's make a pact. The past no longer
there and start from scratch. This meeting will give us much trouble
head and you will not be able to devote much time. But I am firmly resolved
your courtship. Let your head between good this thing! And now we
back! I have a great thirst.
He took her hand and began to run as two children. Invasions in
kitchen laughing with tears and taking further by hand.
Clotilde sitting on chair working on embroidery. He looked at them with a smile
wide, delighted to see so happy, hand in hand ...
Evening phoned John.
- Could you do me a favor, Shanna? Billingham family
must come to dinner tomorrow night. You remember her, right? I have
Page 81
met in Wellington. You agree to come and play the role of
hostess? For me there are some very important relationship.
Susannah had looked bad that it had added.
- Will you stay overnight?
- No. Must go to see her daughter Ashburton. Be
cute and come. It's very important.
She could not refuse him.
- Agree. What time should arrive? ... Perfect. You can
count me at seven o'clock. No, not before ... There's no point. Edith will
take care to set the table and make all preparations. And will do
very well. I would like to offend. If you want to enter into diplomacy

do well to practice under your own roof, John.

- I am not able. That is why I call to help me. I need
you to "settle difficulties" ... Remember!
- To "settle difficulties"?
- No! You understand very well what I mean. I need you!
Suzan prefer not to notice his insistence.
- That spades well, she answered most natural tone possible, I
love to be of service. Goodbye, John.
Replace the handset. Returning you discover Morgan
who watched the last step of the stairs.
- Thumbs Up! This time you put in place. This remark should be
I had to irritate, but curiously not the case. Morgan
spoke without irony. Simply seemed satisfied. Him
smiled.
- Ask me to help him get some friends tomorrow night. There Are
weary head over receptions fashionable! Suzan added by a
grimace. We are pleased Support to parents, but are not
my taste.
- If you are honest, why do not you come back some time ago
Larchwood Vale!
- I'm their only daughter, Morgan. My mother needed me. And
she regrets Larchwood Vale, so I could not abandon. In
Dad will retire soon, come to settle here and grandmother will
finally have the joy to see us all together.
Page 82
- I misjudged. I thought you looked a grandmother. I'm
forgiveness, Shanna. You had good reasons and should not have to go
never doubt yourself. You always had a good heart.
Nothing in the world could make them face greater pleasure.
- I really had very good reasons. Someday I will
stories more fully. But ... I did not want to tell you ... I ... oh! Yourself
mind you, but the worse ...
He saw how blushes. Suddenly looked like the girl of yesteryear. One
took her hand gently.
- Tell me everything! Morgan urged her softly. I will not get mad
not at all. I promise you.
Susan blushed like even more.
- And I've misjudged front end by confessing. I ...
I still believe in love with Martine ... I figured that between
made a connection. I saw them both at Mata Flat ... When there,
leads you to the airport to take a plane to go to Philip. Do You ...
You're not mad at me?
Morgan laughed and gently stroked his hand. His touch soothed.
- Silly little! Martine is an old friend, that's all. And
above and married! It is true that teens between us to

close friendship intertwined. Normal, right? But never was a

seriously! And you probably have attracted many admirers in the world
Some bright where you lived even had the right to kiss you.
- Of course! There's nothing wrong with that, is not it?
- Absolutely nothing! Come into my office. You started your download
heart and I want to take chance, seriously Morgan added.
That concerns us two, and anyone else. Now he insists
After closing the door, tell me everything. Any other reason to wear my
spades?
She sat in a corner of the office. He lowered his head.
- Suzan Carew says Morgan solemn, please do not do the
kid and tell me the whole truth. If not, I feel obliged to you
draw a spanking.
- I will not mind?
- No, I promise.
He approached her and she felt his hard muscled thigh.
Page 83
- Shanna if I upset you want to know. The girl looked at him
candor.
- One day you told me that France was unhappy with John. This does not
I liked it because I found it dishonest to try to denigrate
in my eyes. I decided then to ask him directly to John. If
Fran was unfortunate, it could also be because of me. John had left
can understand that a marriage had ... to do to me in
trouble. But he claimed the opposite. Simply France failed to
acclimate the region. And you've used them as unhappiness
I'll discredit rival. I ... I found that it was missing
chivalry, Morgan. Mismatching is a terrible thing. I know
very well. I myself have suffered for so many years ...
Her eyes filled with tears. Morgan took her gently in
arms.
- I'm a fool. I would have to talk to you about it again.
Poor France! I saw it off from day to day ... I tried to
revive a ...
- You know how much I loved her. Edith said. She ... She has
entrusted Fran's last words. And told the truth, not
right?
- Yes, he told me everything. Listen, Shanna! Believe me! John you
lied. France suffered not only miss the country, was different. Louis and the
talked about the ruin of his father, is not it? When it went bankrupt, he
pay all creditors. He lost everything because of his honesty.
When he learned, John reacted rather ... He sent a letter
contemptuous and violent his father in law. After him, Mr. Rossignol not have
right to do so. It would be unethical to give up and to
think of his daughter, his son-in. When Fran understood

John's behavior, she could not believe. He wrote his father

to encourage him. Until then, he always financial help. She
explained that she was married and could very well to its own.
John has not apologized again. Here is the great secret of cousin
your. She entrusted to me ... One night, John made a scene so
terrible that France went and took refuge on the mountain. He was outraged
for so wrong. John did not dare never to recognize
the truth. Later, said that France had gone to air. But the
Page 84
midnight had not yet returned. Awestruck, held a
search. And ... I'm the one who found her. Slipped on a rock and its
sprained ankle. Assets, remained there for hours in the cold ...
In return, Dr. Rob Mac discovered a double pneumonia,
whom he treated her very well, but France has not returned ...
Morgan hesitated before continuing.
- You could not hide the truth forever, Suzan. I do not
like to stir up the past, but you should know. I would not want John to
... make a second victim.
- Fran told Edith "A child loves you for who you are,
not for what you get "murmured Suzan sad. Now I understand for
what ...
Morgan grabbed his hands and close hard.
- All of them belong to the past, 'he said softly. The location,
Fran certainly forgave him. Wipe your tears, my dear. And you
suffered. Now, you deserve to be happy ... Here, take my handkerchief.
Already, Susan felt better. How the devil was reassuring
waving checkered handkerchief as a knight sword. Suddenly a
unusual noise disturbs their privacy. They stood motionless lurking.
- Seems to come from the library, Shanna whispered. Not grandmother, she
He sleeps in the room. Louis is gone. Oh, Morgan! Perhaps it is a
thief.
- Do not move!
He opened the door quietly. For a man so well built,
have amazing flexibility. And if the intruder was armed?
Suzan disobeying the order followed him quietly. I was not going to let
alone in the face of danger! He pressed the lever and pushing the door
shoulder, rushed in. Uttered in unison, a shout
surprise:
- Louis!
Louis jumped, almost ready to escape Svres vase that
in his hand.
- Damn! he exclaimed. Find it funny? Oh, what did you scared!
- Excuse us, old man, Morgan said, I read too many
detective novels. We thought we catch a bot. Shanna, I
told to stay there!

Page 85
- I was so anxious ...
- You have been a great help, Morgan said ironically. Seeing you
fluffy as a cockerel, ready to fight, I was ready to burst into laughter.
- I could help you very well. Today not only see cocks,
all over. Already, just now ...
Their eyes both meetings and blast laughing. Louis watched them
stunned, not knowing what to believe.
- In any case, I've freaked. Even I have taken as a
thief?
- I heard some noises clogged ...
- What the hell! You can not walk with a Svres porcelain as a
bag of coal. Whatever it was, would have clogged noise
moving the vases. I spoke today with Clotilde about frills.
That's why I came to admire closer. Some were brought from
France, the first settlers, is not it?
- Indeed, Shanna said. Others, however, have come here
soon. Look, this box of silver, for example, the mother did
Gift grandparents to put the jewelry in it, and they candlesticks
French in the eighteenth century we were offered the last
Rossignol d'Akaroa meeting.
- Surely this kettle and everything comes from Rossignol,
Louis intervene. We had one just like in Tahiti.
- Why are you in the past?
- It was sold to pay debts dad. Moments remained
all silent, remembering the dramatic deployment
happenings ...
- Akaroa ... Should we go, Shanna said to
change the subject. Aunt Elise phoned today. Looking forward to
see you, Louis.
- I would not want to ruin your plans, he hurried protest.
The meeting is very close. I think you have a lot of
made.
- Another time you liked so much Elise aunt's house! reply
face. We would be a great pleasure to join you there. Building
Home was converted into a hotel and living pavilion
Aunt Elise is a true museum. There he gathered all
Page 86
treasures. We see again the mountain Bossu! Once you've driven
an expedition to the incredible slopes. Since then you have become
so fond of climbing!
Suzan was preparing for dinner with John Forester.
Long hesitated on the choice of the toilet. He wanted to be stylish, but
without being extravagant. Finally, it decided on a silk tunic

Indian, olive green, brown and sprinkled with golden prints. The fabric
was beautiful but very simple model. The dress was straight,
long sleeves, no cleavage. Carefully brush his hair, perfume
discreet and down.
- You're gorgeous, Morgan exclaimed, seeing her. The color you
fit perfectly. You look like a beautiful butterfly night.
Suzan winced slightly.
- Prefer butterflies day, she said offended. Moths
I feel blue.
- Not for everyone! I adore them.
- Always so romantic, she concludes casually.
When not talk cock, invoke moths! When I'll
compare with a mosquito?
Morgan took an offended air.
- Do not exasperate me, 'he said through his teeth. I do not know ... why are
capable ...
Suzan looked surprised, and his heart began to beat faster.
- You are so great today. Have you changed much in five years,
she remarked softly.
- It is normal, right? You know! For the first time, I do not have
I do savior magnanimous. When I was twelve years old
out of puddle ducks. A few years later, I managed to get out
in another mess. Later, I learned the truth about John, and
I must admit, I was afraid of falling back into his hands.
Did he go back to your first love? Fran was not anything
you no longer stood in the way. But you knew how to see clearly his game. And
ago, I complained that you stayed so long away from my grandmother.
I thought if you had heart, you have already left next
Clotilde. Grandma will not live forever, and nothing she could
replace her beloved niece presence. But when you come back, you've
Page 87
made to change my way of thinking. You work hard and you were so
devoted our old ladies! I found my girlfriend
old, Shanna, compared with the heart of gold, which he appreciated so
more!
Young girl eyes shone with joy.
- I have to tell you a secret. Where is Grandma?
- Was lying in bed and listen to the radio. It is time they show
Favorite.
- Where can I speak without fear But swear to me that you did not mean
anyone.
- I swear, Morgan said seriously.
She told him everything: his mother's long illness, her hopes
thwarted by returning to Larchwood Vale ... As
Suzan spoke, her companion's face brightened. Morgan smiled

beaming. Ah! If it was this dinner Forester Gorge!

- Here's something you put in a new light your absence. You did good
you did not say anything. Clotilde was very anxious! Actually, you know,
she did not grudge never wore that. It is an angel. She sees
always bright side. Last year, fighters Heroes Day,
were laid wreaths at the Monument. Cling to
are also present. Why did you wake up old pain? I have
asked her. Losing your boys to war, what a tragedy! He looked
with a strange smile and replied: "I will honor lifetime memory
my boys. They will live forever in my heart "...
Morgan stopped inserting that stretches girl saw him smile.
- But I'm confused, he slowly resumed. Yes, Shanna, today we
change and the situation is different. Now everything is very simple. No more
are "so-called" fiance. Now you know the truth about John. However, the
I do not know me yet. We need time ...
Shanna sighed. Time ... still time ...
She dreamed that a great love away, like a storm,
last hesitation. Unfortunately, it was not like Morgan. He had to
resign. I wonder, not resigned herself already? It was drawn from
increasingly more quiet waves of a quiet love?
- To hell with this dinner! Morgan suddenly exclaimed,
an awakening to reality. Finally, let me at least give you a ride and
Page 88
come and get you back in the end. Then we can talk ... Give me
phone when it's over dinner and ...
- That's the best. Otherwise, John will certainly insist me
lead. I will be impossible to say no to the guest; and just
I want to avoid. Besides, we have all the time to talk.
- Not really. Since he arrived, Louis not weakens any
moment. This thing surprises me. I thought it would be delighted to explore
surroundings, to visit some others. There was not much
while in New Zealand and there are so many wonderful places to see ...
But no! He prefers to stay with us.
- It's nice of him, eh? Since it was so small.
Always had family spirit. I have to go! Of which
drudgery!
Light as a fairy, walked into the small room to embrace grandmother.
Morgan, with a fun smile, looked departing ...
Page 89
CHAPTER VII
Dinner was going exactly as he had imagined. It discussed markets,
rates, exchange fees ... Greta seemed passionate Billingham
conversation. Shanna was full of admiration! Undoubtedly, when the husband
ranks first in your scene is very easy to inquire this

kind of discussion, is not it? As she felt lonely on the

empty!
Managed to hide his boredom and he played his role perfectly. John
seemed elated! He looked particularly bright.
Suzan have to admit that, in any case, John seemed made for
policy. Thoroughly mastered the subject and was a good orator. Studied
detail the problems that we are particularly interested in Bruce
Billingham and it was moved. But on the other hand IUI John his
lack of skills. Some of his words sounded quite false. He had
still much to learn.
After dessert, passed in the lounge. The conversation becomes more general and
Shanna is relaxed slightly. Then the two men deepening study
an important file and women discussing their own.
- And you're part of an ancient family of pioneers? an
Greta asked.
- Indeed! Like that of John and yet a third, my family
is one of the oldest in the region. They talked about the rough life and
fascinating farmers; then suddenly said Greta:
- John is very gifted. Certainly has beautiful views
policy. But in some ways is not high. See, for
Contrary to other young people starting out on their careers, which should
become more malleable, John must learn to impose. He is ...
too gentle, too well-bred. Listen, my dear, add Greta
lowering his voice even more, I hope you do not mind my confidences.
I speak in his interest. Maybe you'll be able to influence and make him
understand that it would be a little more ... aggressive. Between us
Page 90
it, that is why he was not entrusted
European therefore, that held so much.
Shanna could not believe her ears. So John had been refused IUI
participation in that mission in Europe. And he dared to make it
believe that because they had not accepted the mission. What a hypocrite!
- I understand, said Suzan carefully hiding his anger.
Interlocutor sighed with relief.
- I'm fine! spontaneously exclaimed Mrs Billingham. Not
I wanted to offend you, but in the interest of John, I told you all
this. We women, we can do more without leaving the impression. I
myself, Bruce's early career, I tried to correct my
some clumsiness ... Then, I thought that ...
- It is very natural for a fiance or wife. But for
John I am neither one nor the other.
Greta's eyes widened.
- However, John let me understand clearly ... God! Poor
boy to take wishful thinking?
- I do not know the wishes, said Shanna sec. The reality is

very simple. Once our engagement has failed, but that is a

old story. As a result, John married a charming girl
who unfortunately died very young. As for me, I found
parents abroad and I dealt secretarial issues
my father. Recently, I decided to see my birthplace and
especially my dear grandmother. So I came back to settle down
here. And we did it without any thought hidden. Unfortunately, people
gossip ... Some think I turned to John, now his wife
died. But it is not true!
- Yes, I understand, approve Greta in whose eyes There was sympathy. And
John believed what he liked to believe. Tell me, Shanna,
there is another man in your life?
- Yes, murmured blushing face. But be nice and do not talk about
that of John.
- I had no doubt of this. Seeing you earlier
entering, I told my husband: "Here's a lass, Bruce. It has
a special air that betrays "Be quiet, I know I keep a
secret! Try to advise friendly but John. Must
Page 91
correcting faults, otherwise will never succeed in his political career. It
seems that our men have finished the job. Let's go to them.
They sat talking all a long time.
Shanna was a master in the art of conversation. The one word of
spirit made them several times to laugh with tears. John sipped a
eyes, but she does not let impressed. He knew what to expect. John
consider as an ideal wife and wanted a politician ...
in an absolutely interested.
When Greta and Bruce got up to leave, Susan decided to
also do the same. John he could not hide his grief.
- Why not stay a minute? After quite early.
- I'm tired. Grandmother I think I expected and I do not want to make
stay up late.
- I think I slept for a long time!
- It seems that you do not know! She likes to stay awake! Use
any pretext. After supper. is a moment so sweet! We gather
together and talk, read ...
- And for us are favorite watches, Bruce intervene. I and
Greta we see very little during the day. I so much
Working! I do consecrate a debt of evenings. If we are forced
get out, we still offer a moment of silence before we sleep.
Greta prepares tea, talks to me about it ... It's occupations
funny! We've been married for thirty years, but we bear all the
some young lovers! But ... I'll consider ridiculous!
- Not at all, it provides Shanna. On the contrary, I envy you.
- Time to go, ending merry Greta. I do not like

prolonged separations. Thank you for this successful evening.

John put his hand on her shoulder Susannah.
- Just do not abandon me! he said softly while friends
their departed. It's not fair! You spend all your time with Morgan and
Louis. I only see you. This time, you can not refuse me to stay,
otherwise I get upset!
Exasperated, she issued an impatient gesture.
- John, you do not understand anything! I have a lot of work to do in
this period. We take care of the house, preparing food for four
people. There are preparations for the meeting. I do not for a moment
Page 92
free. I should be grateful that we have come to help in
tonight! The more so since the world of finance and
Policy bores me terribly. John stared.
- But it is impossible! You were raised in this world! You were
Your father's secretary ... You politics blood!
- I Larchwood blood Vale, this is the most
important, 'said Suzan sec. A house surrounded by greenery, the air
the fresh mountain sheep which romp in the meadows, here are my true
Universe. I like the hard work of pastors, noise, odor
flock. Prefer bleating of sheep, instead of typewriters chatter!
The rest does not interest me. My heart is here Larchwood Vale
will remain as long as I live!
- I do not understand it, 'said John ironic. Surely the
middle Morgan!
- Morgan's domain administrator, nothing else. He did not
had no influence on my decision. I want to live quiet
with the family. You see, with a little luck, grandma will still live
ten years. In a year or two, my father retires. We have, finally,
all together ...
- You have twenty-four years, Shanna. Do you want to marry, have
children?
- I would really like. But only if I meet
ideal man. Otherwise, I prefer to remain unmarried. I would be the first! Not
I want to marry at all costs! I want to be sure of my choice!
John came to her eyes sparkling. His voice becomes gentle
and comforting ...
- I could not I be the right choice? Your mother loved
Larchwood Vale lot, but did not hesitate to follow her husband
wide world ... You know, I could go on here very often.
Your parents would certainly agree to receive ...
Shanna thought he did not understand well and asked:
- What are you saying? You're not going to sell Forester Gorge?
John did not answer right away, staring at something. Rise slowly
head and smiled with an air faltering.

Page 93
- I would do it with heart at peace, but will undoubtedly be forced
to. I was offered a job in Wellington. First is
about a half-time job, but I heard that ...
John hesitated, then forced a smile, he proposed:
- Shanna, will you come with me? We could try to relive the romance
of yore. We have not changed much, is not it? See, I'm
honest. I can not promise that we will stay here all my life. I could have you
hide my plans to go to Wellington ...
She looked him straight in the face and said star without thoughts:
- You should be honest before, 'she said coldly. I have
lied when you told me about going abroad to you
quit for my sake. You know, for a moment I believed it. From
Unfortunately for you, I learned the truth.
- Greta told? At least, I think you told another version of
facts? These people are very important for my career.
- Be quiet, I was embodied discretion. But you can not say
same about you! You let her understand that virtually
we are engaged. How much courage! He advised me to teach you to be more
honest, more direct. And not wrong! You should start to grow
these qualities in your private life! You told me a lot of
lies! It's a shame! You know, John, that people were tired of words
large and lying. They politicians honest and sincere. I'm looking for
the same qualities for my future husband. I lived with love
fleeting youth, John. But it was nothing serious. No use to
revive an old passion! I was not made for each other. When
I realized, I gave ...
- You did not realize anything, a taunt John. You thought you
in love with a man too old for you.
- I loved him, Suzan said bluntly. I love all Morgan
soul. That is why I have not married. I am a single woman loves.
But do not worry, John! Eventually you will find your ideal wife.
Let me give you a tip: the day you will meet, remember to
love for herself. You know, to be generous. It is the only way to
succeed in a marriage, the only way to be happy. One day such
need to talk honestly with Greta. It is full of wisdom and
will know how to help you to see oneself as you are. Too
Page 94
proud, John, too're always ready to respond. You have many qualities,
but have to learn to use them with discretion.
With these beautiful words, Shanna opened the door and walked out, leaving
alone with his thoughts.
On the way back, Suzan feel a disposition
Excellent. Could put things right now to start a new

chapter of life. Every minute a closer Morgan. How I would have liked
to spend the evening with him. He could walk through the garden.
It was full moon hung in the air and the scent of lilac and jasmine.
Arriving in the yard, he saw lit office window. Louis and
Morgan before they lay down. They were both passionate about antiques and
could talk for hours about it. But while the station
car, office light is off and Louis's room light.
Shanna was delighted to herself if grandma does not sleep yet,
delay would do it. And she had the good fortune to be alone with
Morgan.
Unfortunately, unlike the kitchen, hopes steals wasted.
The room was empty. On the table was rushed writing a ticket, so
drag:
"It's eleven o'clock. I'm going to Tawhai. Rowena sow
Beechington girl and problems. Do not wait! Might I
back later. I got a call from Rossignol Bay. We expect
tomorrow. You have to leave early enough. Lie quickly to
get in shape! "
He put on the table sad piece of paper, and thinking of the written
laughed. Morgan had a strange way of doing yard. When
talking about cocks, when brought about pigs! It was not
romantic! To hell with Rowena and sow them!
Climb the ladder and was suddenly overwhelmed by doubt. Morgan made his
Does yard? Or can she take wishful thinking! But Shanna
hastened to banish dark thoughts. Morgan had warned about
his intentions and it was believed the word. And, oddly enough, he had no
doubt about him. He believed attracted to her legacy.
It was not true. If he loved her, he loved her for representing
itself. There had settled in Larchwood Vale of interest. With his side
Page 95
of the Herwington-Blair could very well buy
it's firm. But he preferred to administer lands grandparents,
taking place around her family absent.
He took off his gown and sat down carefully on the hanger in the closet. Only
then feel easy and yet intoxicating scent that seemed to fill
camera. Intrigued, glanced around and he could not restrain a
exclamation of surprise. On the nightstand there were several branches of
lilac tied with a red ribbon.
"Have your wild beauty. Good evening, my pretty! "
You feel faint with joy. Yup! Morgan made his yard. And yet after
all the rules of art! Suzan got into bedding and extinguished immediately
light. In the dark he would feel better intoxicating scent of
lilac. He wanted to take full advantage of this delicate gesture.
It was a nice time. Morgan looked in great shape, although
slept only four hours.

- Do not make faces, 'he said cheerfully. We take a picnic basket,

but nothing fancy. You women always want to prepare a thousand
of things. Put roast chicken and some red travel cooler. With
still one or two packets of biscuits will be perfect. As to lunch,
we go to Birdling's Flat. Thus Clotilde will have the opportunity
see UK. It's a wonderful place, where the waves break on the seafront. On
finally we go slowly Akaroa harbor. We will go on the road
from the seashore. Not the most direct, but it is so beautiful.
The program was adopted by all, with great satisfaction. Granny May
especially, seemed very happy. His eyes glowed a new youth.
He takes a deep air laden with the scent of the sea ... For more
or, Morgan stopped the car to let them freely admire a landscape
very attractive. Finally they reached the Rossignol Bay. After
bypassing the small port, discovering the end of the road Rossignol house.
The old house was so cheerful, so elegant. Building
Home, recently repainted, was bordered by three pavilions May
were lost in the greenery small garden.
Reunion was particularly welcome. The two are old
embraced with effusion. Aunt Elise, very impressive, was very
Page 96
elegant in her black costume and sober. He had a heart of gold and he knew that
no other, to placate everyone.
- Louis, my dear, I'm so happy to see you again! A past
so long since we've seen. Let's go. I want to show you
courtyard of the hotel. It is delightful and now there are too
customers. The yard was very nice and shaded by a few trees. They took
an aperitif.
- After dinner, announces cheerful Aunt Elise, I will lead
flag to admire my little museum. This will love with
Louis's safety. I know that once loved treasures brought from
France. They knew each and history of each object ...
Shanna saw an expression on his face Morgan curious. He seemed ...
Yeah, that was ... seemed very surprised. But why? Suddenly understood
what it was. Louis admired ancient objects from
Larchwood Vale. But there seemed to recognize them. Or, most of them
Rossignol came from the house.
- I will disappoint, Aunt Elise, intervene when young. Maybe
do not know, but I had an accident two years ago and my memory
unsatisfactory.
At that moment the little Elise's daughter Margot, fell and hit his head.
All jumped to comfort and Shanna not think about this
odd detail.
That evening, after dinner, we all are gathered around the fire. Not
It was cold, but it was so pleasant to look cheerful flames ...
- What would happen if you read us a poem, Morgan? he asked Aunt Elise.

And turning to smile Shanna added:

- Know that has become a tradition. Whenever comes with
Clotilde, we read poems.
So during her absence, Morgan came often to Rossingnol
Bay like to make fun grandparents. He had a soul so good!
Morgan gladly obeyed and read a text of Mona Tracey.
The poem describes a sunset just to Akaroa. Recite admirable and
they dropped all the beauty rocking lyrics. When finished,
Clotilde said softly:
Page 97
- Elise and I have great luck! So many old people end up living in
loneliness, forget all. We are surrounded by young people
lovers!
What better get along together! They were in good agreement with each
et al. Every moment was like a song ... Suddenly Shanna is
feel very moved. His eyes filled with tears. He turned
window quickly by trying to hide the disorder, and looked
discreet pocket, a handkerchief. But Morgan has already approached him
stretched his. He paused between Suzan and others, hiding it
their eyes.
- You're very emotional, 'he said gently. So much the better.
I do not like women ice.
Girl SUPPORT edge of the window and said in the same tone:
- Everything is so beautiful tonight! I could not get
refrain ... Then he smiled and added, often Living here, is not it? His grandparents
really like.
- I came not only to make him happy, 'said Morgan
looking into her eyes. Your mother wrote regularly Aunt Elise.
Coming here always find news about you.
Suzan could not believe her ears. Morgan seemed very sincere. Girl
felt blushes.
- Come on, she gently reproached only wrote his grandparents every
month! You can not reproach me that I sent news!
- No, of course not. But I was never enough.
I read in one breath all the letters ...
Suddenly he felt Suzan of great joy. She was silent.
He had some doubts: had suffered much in her life and knew enough
disappointments. It had to finally find peace?
- I do not want to precipitate things continue her companion, as
you would have read my mind. You need time to think about. Us
We will devote all the time to prepare the meeting. There are so many
things to do! But after the invitations will go ...
He stopped suddenly as it had too much regret ...
- Please continue!
- No. This is no time.

Page 98
- You're right. But after the meeting I speak and I also
my. I've got some things to say.
- Tell me nice things?
- I guess so. This time ...
- What you say? Speak up, can not hear you. Morgan raised less
voice.
- Shhh! made her indignant, we will hear. But already Margot exclaimed
laughing:
- You'll end with this whispering? You are incorrigible!
All bursts into laughter. They began to chat, eating
biscuits. Then old ladies walked to bed. Shanna is
withdrawn it. He lay on the bed but not sleep immediately. He wanted to
relive every moment of this wonderful days. Therefore, Morgan
I miss! He had come to Akaroa to hear something about it. Slowly, he
overwhelmed with attention and tenderness ... It was like a late flowering
great love. A love late ... For if the spring is a season
beautiful, full of sap and life, buds and flowers have appeared only
fulfillment yet ripe fruit.
Clotilde often said that autumn is her favorite season. And
Fall came here in April. What would surprise him more reserved
Suzana sizzle autumn?
Page 99
CHAPTER IX
The next morning he showed Aunt Elise Louis treasures. In
Meanwhile, Pierre and Margot escorted his friends to take a walk
the garden ... In fact, it was a park surrounding the building
Main. The two small pavilions were hidden in a real
green thicket. Colina Puke-a-Mapu, "Hill singing" defend
the marine wind. That morning, Justine had offered to
take care of the little Elise, to let freer the "young".
Franois led a grandmother to make a visit to Akaroa
old friends. Must meet all lunch.
Would have thought they were in France, more precisely in Provence.
Narrow roads lined with lavender meandered under the trees.
The air was balmy scent of rosemary.
Aunt Elise arrive in a hurry.
- You ask the hotel, she announces Pierre and Margot. One
of the refrigerators do not work.
The two they went to the place of the old drama and Suzan remaining
Lady and Morgan.
- Where is Louis?
- He went and he Akaroa. He wanted to go to the city museum
to check something.

Suzan did her Aunt Elise compliments about the garden.

- You know you gathered together all aromatic plants in the world.
But you do not bat?
- Unfortunately i feel lack, is not it? I do not know how to do ...
- We will bring new of a branch, said the girl. Ours is superb.
And, turning to Morgan, added with a smile in his mouth:
I love the bat. It's my favorite flower!
Man's face brightened. The old lady looked at the time. Without
doubt had to suspect something.
Page 100
- Oh, love! she muttered to himself. Sun fragrance
Lavender, a pair of lovers, looking into their eyes ... This is what
means happiness. I thought your love affair ended long
while, my children, or conversely, knows a new spring?
- Indeed, Morgan said without a trace of embarrassment.
Cozy evening yesterday, the happiness of being together all pushed us
by confidences. Shanna and I thought I already once that we met.
But the buzz and bustle of our last meeting broke up, unfortunately.
This time we will be more cautious. We expect Larchwood
Vale to regain calm as usual to do public engagement.
Elise Rossignol looked in the distance, blue water of the ocean. He
discreetly wiped a tear in the corner of your eye.
- Do not wait too long, my dear, 'she whispered. I and
Clotilde are old. God can we call him a
any moment. Then he smiled as if he wanted to mitigate the severity
words. In any case, Suzan, to remember a thing! Taffeta dress
the museum showcase was Victorin Rose wedding gown.
Grandmother're a lot like you, my dear. And if one day you
decide to wear ... Look, I started talking nonsense! Do not leave a
old woman like me to spoil this beautiful day with words
her sad.
- You are adorable, Morgan said kindly, and not corrupt
nothing! Shanna has bright eyes, but cries easily. I said that
and last night, he added, including an arm around her shoulders, but that does not
bother me at all. I like women ... sensitive and sincere. Let
ladies, smile! And when the meeting is over, when Louis will
go again ...
- Ah, Louis! exclaimed Aunt Elise suddenly startled. Youth a
stared uncomprehendingly. Just wanted to tell you about it,
Morgan. I would have preferred that this discussion should remain between us.
Suzan, my child, will you excuse us for a moment? No offense
me, my dear.
- No problem, it ensures girl smiling. I'm going to the big house
to see if the refrigerator has been repaired. I'll be there.

Page 101
After half an hour, Morgan come to seek and with
Aunt Elise left for Akaroa. On the way they talked about a
lot of nonsense, but Shanna get the impression that they are companions
concerned. But worry not made, being curious like her. Without
doubt that the old lady wanted to go and testament Louis
and wanted to know the opinions of Morgan. It would have been a fair refund.
IUI Father Louis had lost his fortune in a manner so unfair.
Crossing the main street, they saw the young Tahitian parked car
in front of the shop an antiquarian.
- You should tell him maybe a little hurry. Madeline
Lemo promised to make a souffl. If you arrive too late,
souffl will be compromised.
- He has got to stop, 'said Aunt Elise voice curiously
tense. I already warned. If so impolite as to
delay, with the worse for it. I'll tell him not to Madeline
wait.
Shanna was a little surprised. Aunt Elise seemed to have the same
Louis condition as before. In fact, oddly enough, and she
prefer old boy from holidays instead of this man,
too confident. Sometime Louis was not a guy interested. Him
like to go outdoors and do not concern the issue of money.
How changed! Today, spoke only of the value of things. Put
a lot of questions about the area and yield income
livestock. Morgan asked him if he could not bring more
improvements to increase the efficiency of introducing the industrial methods
the growth of animals. Likewise, when admire objects
adorned salon, Louis spoke only of the price and not
their beauty.
Fortunately, nobody was late for dinner. And lunch was
excellent. After souffl, Madeline eel fillet served with cream.
The fish was fresh, had been fishing that morning and sauce
was marvelous.
- My compliments! exclaimed Louis, kissing her hand host.
My dear, you are a true master! You are a worthy successor to
French culinary traditions!
Page 102
Madeline blushed so unusual ceremony. Louis seemed
form.
- Akaroa Museum is exciting! he continues. I hardly
left there. But it was a crime to be late souffl.
Shanna flinched otherwise. If Louis visited the museum, then
linger there too long. I just saw a car parked in front
the shop antiquarian! Why walk with hiding? Maybe it was in crisis
money and wanted to sell a personal item. But he himself

confessed that his father had sold all the family valuables.
Where? Intrigued, I looked at Morgan and Aunt Elise. They seemed very
tense, but said nothing.
An old lady escorted home, took their luggage and started
back home. They had traveled sixty miles.
- I want to stop than to Christchurch, says Morgan.
The guy who took the veterinarian's office wants to talk to me. We Will
make something to eat in town. After such a day does not want to
Orders Shanna cook!
They arrived home at nine o'clock. They were all exhausted. Shanna excused
immediately goes to sleep. Expect the next day to explain
Louis's strange attitude.
The next morning, Clotilde looked in great shape. Morgan did not
had to date, although he was worried because young
Tahitian. Unsuspecting old lady. And that was the most
important.
- I have to leave immediately, Morgan apologizes after breakfast
children. You must make your car serviced. I hope to have time for this. And
Dan who needs me ...
- I'd give one to replace you, 'said Louis cheerful, but not
I would do. I know nothing.
- And if I follow the other car? Shanna proposed. Have
thus be able to come back soon.
- You're pretty, but it is pointless. I have lots of things to do
in the city! Mayor wants to talk to me about the next
Agricultural Exhibition and need to take care of felling old
Chestnut reached by lightning. Defer the drudgery of weeks. It is a
good opportunity to do it!
Page 103
- If you refuse the offer Shanna grandmother not to remain single,
Louis intervene, I would love to keep him company!
- No, you do not need, his party said in a tone
facetious. The old lady is sturdy and not our fears
loneliness.
Again, Suzan had the strange impression. Louis may propose to
he lead the second car. That would be arranged everything. But he had done.
Morgan ran to see Dan, and returned after half an
hour.
- Our walk yesterday delayed everything he says with a tone
worried. Louis, you could keep me place this morning?
You have repaired the fence at Swagman's Gulley. For it is not
need special skills. Dan waiting.
To the great astonishment of Shanna, Morgan did not leave immediately. An hour
later, it was still there.
- I wrote an urgent letter, he explains, is a very

seriously.
The phone rings and he hastened to answer.
- Franois! Do not hang up, old man!
Morgan leaves little receiver and asked Suzan:
- Where is Louis?
- At the barn, put the saddle on Grise think. But why ...
- A! nothing, 'said Morgan released. This phone is
very important and I am afraid of prying ears.
Shanna left the room, but she heard him saying inerlocutorului:
- Then we agreed. What time can we meet?
Not wanting to sound curious girl closed the door. We spent some
strange things. Morgan spoke with Franois Rossignol it? Barely
had seen the day before. After all it could be someone else. One
of woodcutters who work for them all named Franois. In
end ...
Shanna went to the kitchen to wash the dishes. Louis stuck her head
the door and announces:
- Dan came to get me. We can go back to
lunch. So, on tonight!
He heard galloping horses moving away. Gone.
Page 104
- Clotilde's all in her room? Morgan asked the salon. I'm going
to say goodbye and go
Without knowing why, Shanna felt a vague uneasiness. He wiped
hurried hands and went into the garage. Morgan just install the
driving the car.
- I hope not to ruin the way! she said smiling.
- There's no risk. A lead to revision, just for coming
term, that's all.
Driven by a sudden intuition, Shanna leaned toward the window
car and asked:
- It's good, is not it? Nothing happens special?
- No! he said quietly. Life is beautiful. We will stand by
Speaking after the meeting and come ... And I keep my promises
Your face will submit a platonic kiss!
And coming out of the car half its deed accompany it. Shanna
laughed and at that moment all worries vanished. Morgan a
stared. For a moment seemed ready to drop out. But
what? He smiled quietly and start the engine ... If she knew ...
Shanna moving away look away, then turned back to the house.
Clotilde humming cheerfully. She climbed into the upper chambers to do
bedding. Louis and made it his. Linger to make his bed Morgan
carefully folded sheet over and smoothing with a gesture
affectionate blanket. On the bedside table was placed a photo of parents
and his down beside the bed, lay a book of poems. Morgan dear! Even

After a day of work was still time to read! She was so

sensitive ...
With an automatic gesture raises the volume. It was opened in Chapter
"Love Poems". She felt a shiver goes through a pleasant one.
Also noted a notepad covered with small writing.
So, not content just to read poetry, but also wrote. You will
Teasing no doubt about it. But in fact, the discovery of a
filled with joy! Life was really beautiful! Only would
complete with meeting! I should not have reacted that way!
Clotilde give much importance to this event! With a light heart,
went to knock on the door grandparents. Old sing on. It
interrupted only to lust for her inside and resumed his song.
Page 105
- Well, I see that we are well placed today!
- And why would not I be! old said with a smile. And you think you
comes to play! A while ago I sat at the window to say "
Goodbye "Morgan. You were in the garage with him. Do not you hear me. Were more
too busy!
The girl blushed to the top of the ears.
- Do not be angry with me, my dear, 'said Clotilde gently.
You make me feel so happy! You should pretend
I did not see anything, but I can not hide my joy! I you
both so cute! For a long time I was afraid that Morgan will not
own feelings. He's so proud! But now I see that everything
seems changed.
- O, Mamita! It would be wonderful, is not it? But how can I be sure?
- Simply asking the question. Why be afraid of
really? I could tell you some things, but do not say anything. Not
I want to deprive him of the pleasure Morgan. You will tell him
himself.
- I do not want to make any statement now. Prefer to wait
end of the meeting.
Grandmother raised his arms toward the ceiling, in a melodramatic gesture.
- I do not understand what's in the minds of the youth of today. How can you let on more
such statements later? Clotilde laughed like a child and their
kisses granddaughter. Do not worry, darling, everything will be fine. Want
only to leave you time to think. Fears maybe you will reject
again ... But you will not do it, eh? You just know! The blood
French that comes flowing through you, you are able to invent a
ruse to get him to confess you.
Shanna laughed and jumped the old neck.
- Do not be unkind, Grandma! Now laugh at me, and yesterday you
plotted all day with Aunt Elise.
- We must understand, my child! I noticed the conversation
Your intimate after dinner. Ah! if I had a magic wand, I would

made
disappear everything around you. Finally, that moment will come. Come on,
go, my dear. And think about what I said.
Page 106
Suzan was preparing to pull vacuum in the lounge when
phone rings. It was Stephanie.
- I would not want to pry, but Morgan has passed on to me
morning. I hope that you do not inconvenience.
- And to me it seemed troubled, Shanna accept. I have
asked, but he would not tell me anything. And thou, thou hast spoken?
- Of course. I remembered the anniversary mom and he did
not even replied. I was a little upset. It is usually so
carefully. I asked if it matters to you ...
- ... With me ?! Shanna repeated, hardly believing them to ear.
- There's no point do the amazed! I always said that I would
like to be my sister-in-law. Morgan reassured me about it. He
said it had trouble, but in the end everything will work out. I have
could find nothing more. Listen, Suzan, I would like to make a
blunder, but please, do not crush the heart a second time.
This time Suzan jumped indignantly.
- Maybe I'll consider pisloag continues Stephanie, I but
I too much prefer to step in bowls, but to play with the cards
table. It's a shame what happened five years ago. Listen
Shanna! When you proposed engagement was crazy about you, but I
believed in love with John. Why did not dare to tell you.
I want to tell you a secret. Morgan did it on Clotilde to
organize this new meeting. And you know why? To make you
back. I called when I was in England and told me everything. He knew that
you could fall into the hands of John, but he was determined to take
risk. At first, all this pleased me not at all. France
John was very unhappy. I did not want you to be your turn. And
I was afraid that Morgan would not suffer him.
Shanna took her feel dizzy. Suddenly he remembered
Stephanie strange attitude in England. We suspect that it was a
plot. If she knew!
- You did good that you told me, Stephanie. You see, five years it
love your brother crazy. John decided to break up with
long before the arrival of France. But Morgan was so ... mysterious.
I thought not keep me.
Interlocutor laughed.
Page 107
- I see that you are both very curious. What the hell! If only you
left a few moments pride aside. Why did not you say anything?
I should be locked together until you have cleared. Finally, it's all good

that ends well, eh?

- Yes, I think so. Morgan never told me anything yet, but
after meeting ...
- Listen, Stephane exploded just will not restart
Your grimace. What good to wait so long? Do not do
the naive. Put it on the wall.
Shanna laughed.
- You're not very romantic, but certainly the right. I will
everything in my power.
With a light heart again gets down to work. He shook vacuum and
then wiped the dust in the lounge. It was a real pleasure. He liked so
more trinkets grandparents! Some were of great value, especially
they represented so many memories. They were the legacy of the past.
The most valuable were locked in a glass case which was key
door. pushed by a sudden impulse, Shanna lock the door twice and
put his key in his pocket. Louis insisted so much on the price
these priceless souvenirs. Whenever a thief may arise and
then ...
She glanced shelves. Ah I If objects could have
speak, had so much to tell. In the middle is a showcase
dressed in black velvet box containing the most precious asset
grandmother, fourteen miniatures painted on silk. They were very old
AND made with great finesse. Automatic, Shanna include them in
looks ... And she could not restrain an exclamation of astonishment. Missing two
of them! They were placed in two rows as usual, but
undoubtedly missing two! What remained were scattered discreetly as
to fill the gap. Their disappearance could remain unnoticed more
time.
Suddenly know the truth. Louis steal them. Steal. With
Certainly would not sell them here, but in Tahiti, where he would obtain
a good price on them. Tourists are always hungry after such
souvenirs.
Page 108
She was conscious. How he could Louis, her companion play boy
with the heart of gold, how could he commit such an infamy?
He passed in review, feverishly, and other frills. May had and
other things, a few small things, but of great value: a cigarette box
solid silver, old embroidery loaded with pearls, a vase
crystal polished ... As to quiet shake hands, they clog the
apron pocket. Fortunately, the thief went with Dan. Not
I would have liked to face with him at this moment. Of! If only be
Morgan was there. He would know what to do. Above all, be
Housekeeping grandmother. It was not supposed to know the truth. For it would be a shock
too large.
He decided to call the garage. If Morgan was there, would leave

a message. But no one needed to hear.

Chance smiles. The grandmother was in the kitchen, filled a basket.
- I'm going to Nessie, telling her grandmother. I'll do better
little movement. I take some eggs that the chickens they had not started
eggs.
Once the Clotilde left, Shanna hastened to telephone. Everything
have to be solved with the arrival of Morgan.
- No, I have not seen the mechanic said amazed.
- How so? You should come to overhaul the machine.
- I'm not hard to check, Miss Carew. Let me look into
register programming.
There was a pause endless.
- No, I did not note anything. I think you're wrong, Miss.
Lord Hervington made machine overhaul two months ago. And he has
no reason to do it again.
- I guess I was wrong. Excuse me.
Then phone the Town Hall, in the sawmill. It seemed
no one had seen Morgan. What were all these lies?
With heart pounding to break chest, Shanna Louis goes to his room.
Perhaps the hidden objects in the room. But if they had to
He ... He could still believe.
The suitcase was in the closet, locked with a key. Why to zvorasc suitcase
if it has nothing to hide? An up and finds it very difficult ...
Louis must have put clothes in it. In the closet there were only
Page 109
a suit and a raincoat. However, he must remain a few
days. Increasingly more astonished, open all the drawers chest.
They were empty! It proved that Louis decided to rush
departure.
This time suspicions became certainties. He was sure of it.
He got in a hurry. What was it that had passed the antiquarian
Louis the day before?
See, febrile AND dialed phone book.
- Excuse me for disturbing you, you received a visit from a young man somehow
which will proposed a number of antiques? In particular, two miniatures
French sec. XVIII.
- Yes and no. Indeed, I visited a couple, but not me
showed nothing. Just interested in the value of this kind of objects.
He spoke about a thumbnail and solid silver cigarette case.
It was impossible to make an estimate without seeing the objects. In any
case, I advised him to sell more in Europe or the United States.
But what good are all these questions? Police are somehow?
Despite his state of mind, able to continue polite:
- No, do not worry. It's just a family matter. Younger
is my cousin. He wanted to give us these objects pledge

assuring that are of great value. I cared only to check

sayings.
Caller sighed with relief.
- With so well shore. I would not have gone too far. I do n't
never buy goods without to make sure of origin. Some of the
my colleagues prefer to close their eyes to make a good deal. But
not my style.
- I believe you, sir. Goodbye.
After remaining hung motionless, his eyes lost in
empty. Suddenly he felt afraid. He would never have the courage to
Louis questioned. He had to wait for Morgan. He will find
certainly a solution. We filed a complaint or it will thank you
reclaim objects?
He remembered the boy who had taken so much now
fifteen years. Louis was like a brother to her. How many fools
they did together! Always reach implausible situations, but
Page 110
always coming out with a clean face. Little Tahitian was a daredevil!
Brave, tenacious, have ever since high climber fabric. When
one was stupid, was always ready to bear the consequences.
No. This boy had not been able to become a villain. Her suspicions were
absurd and unjust. After all, the house was always open to
everyone. Anyone could come and go with objects.
To be clear conscience, Morgan will want to inspect the suitcase.
But to get there, Suzan could not accuse him without proof.
There was no point to stay there and make a number of assumptions
silly. He decided to grab it again. Veranda have
need a general cleaning. It is armed with a bucket, a broom and a
brush and began to rub tiles. But soon stopped to call
Nessie, suggesting grandmother to retain the table.
- I started cleaning and house are turned upside down. I would
have time to prepare meals. You do not mind?
- Anyway I was going to retain the table. Mother must
go here for lunch. Be able to talk quietly.
Shanna hung relieved and started working again.
Towards one o'clock gobble a sandwich in a hurry and set to work and
May diligently. It was very hot. Summer was approaching. He paused a moment to
wipe sweat from his forehead. The alley saw a figure approaching.
It was Louis who seemed very cheerful.
- I have not found a very good worker, he said, laughing. Dan
went to pick up Brent me. A must give way ... What
the flood that? Clean the tiles? I really need to bother so?
Immediately the girl's suspicions vanished. Louis was a boy so
nice and helpful. I would have never a bad thing.
- Grandma went on a visit. I took her departure to

do a general cleaning. But I must admit that hot die. Not

is no breeze.
- Do you have more? When you finish we could go take a bath
in the lake. It would be my first bath this year.
- What a great idea. Do you have a slip?
- Unfortunately I have not brought. Do you think I could borrow one
Morgan? I do not want to rush you. You have to make a call
Page 111
Auckland for my business. Maybe it will take some more.
Of course I will pay the conversation
- No use, Shanna said, laughing. I still got it.
- Yes, I insist! Otherwise, I would feel embarrassed. I asked
also contribute to the costs for food, but Aunt
Clotilde did not want to hear.
Shanna red to the top of the ears. How it had been able to
suspect impure intentions when he was embodied honor? He
their pozna remember the greatest of fifteen years ago. They
he wanted to compete and have urged galloping ponies. Naturally
that were not allowed, but they were both so bold ... By
ago, scaring Horses is a gust of wind, they threw the saddle and
both landed in a barbed wire fence. After being
taken to hospital to make a tetanus shot, received a
soaping hearty. The little boy with a chivalrous gesture, assumed
all responsibility adventure. He said he forced her to Shanna
follow for a month and never got dessert.
Shanna thought that Louis could not change that much.
He was not able to do something so despicable!
She goes to his room to seek a slip Morgan Louis. One
light breeze breaks out and flip through the pages notepad seated next
bed. Unwittingly take a look at Morgan's writing. He began to
read and he could not take his eyes. It was a poem which was stngce
dedicated. His body was crossed by a shiver of pleasure. Morgan, this
severe man, this mountain of muscle to turn it into a
poet, a troubadour. Suddenly she burst into joyous laughter.
Life is so beautiful! What voluptuous pleasure to know you loved!
First !, Stephanie phone and then the wonderful poem.
He took a slip of the closet and turned to his cousin in the Room
to change. She put her bathing suit, pulled over a
white coat, is wearing some light sandals and ran to meet
her cousin. She was so happy!
Louis had taken away.
The sun was playing the slick spreading reflex silver. It was so
pleasant! The water was a little cold, but get used quickly. The place was great.
It was not what is called a lake but rather a reservoir

Page 112
formed by the river. This natural pool at the foot
hill. Stopped by a cluster of rocks, exposing the water waves
lazy sun before it rolled into a beautiful
cascade twenty feet below. You had to be careful and not to
too close, because the current was very strong. Water, so
Top quiet, suddenly became agitated as if by a mysterious force.
Branches and grass floating smoothly over the lake were aspirated
with a formidable force and crush hitting the rocks. It was a little
dangerous Shanna was common. As children often came to
bathe here.
They stood in the water for quite a while, jumping in the cheerful and
cries like removing red leather. Concerns girl disappeared
altogether. He cast out of mind trinkets missing. Perhaps all
mystery have a very simple explanation: Clotilde move them to another
part simply. Allow to float on the water clear and repeated
poem, began to be cold. Shake the water like a puppy and
said cheerfully:
- If I am to lie in the sun. This year's first bath.
On each side of the falls were a few flat stones that invite
rest. They sat side by side. It was really very hot.
Shanna was afraid not to do somewhat sunburn, even though I have not
importance. Not dying from it.
Moles sun began to chat.
- I wanted to ask you a favor, Louis said suddenly. Tomorrow should
go to Auckland for some business. I thought I could postpone
meeting for later, but unfortunately it is impossible.
Of course I come before the meeting, at which I would
miss it for the world. Would you take me tomorrow morning
to Christchurch airport? I'm terribly sorry, but
plane leaves early enough.
Face his blood run cold. Suspicion overwhelmed again.
Swallowed and asked the most natural tone:
- What time should be there?
- I booked a flight to eight and a half.
Shanna felt his heart like a bird struggling captive. As far as
latter was not mistaken. It seemed that Louis has something on his conscience.
Page 113
Wearing Morgan's strange and it may have a connection. Louis ago
go like a thief. Maybe all he had stolen some things from aunt
Elise! This she realized and ...
In any case, the young Tahitian was decided to take talpas. You will find
then an excuse to never come back. We sell antiques at
Los Angeles, for example, and then, if charged, will deny
fiercely ... He planned everything minutely. But deleting showcase

dust, Shanna foiled his plan.

He felt it includes anger. Still able to retain control.
Louis should not feeling anything. If you would guess that it suspects ...
This thought a shiver. He had a bitter taste in the mouth.
He stood quiet and pursed his towel.
- We must return home, said Susan with feigned
merriment. Surely Mamita already returned and could to do
about.
- You're right. Otherwise I have to prepare my suitcase.
What nerve. He had long suitcase. Mind with a
amazing boldness.
- Of course ...
And, insidious, candidly added:
- I'll give you a hand. The kind of things men do
are too prudent.
To put sandals, Shanna leaned against a hazel. Rays
sun caressed her skin smooth.
- God! Exclaimed the young Tahitian. How's that scar
great? In the water I noticed her.
He grabbed her, gently, by hand, to see better. Shanna froze.
- It can not be forgotten, Louis. Remember galloping pony,
barbed wire hospital.
A strange gleam flashed in the eyes of the young.
- Alas! He said sec, the accident has left deep scars really.
I do not remember.
Shanna looked at him incredulously.
- But she resumed, your scar should remind you of
random. After the accident would have to wonder what's wrong with it, I'll
ask family.
Page 114
With an automatic gesture, he took her hand, searching eyes after bailiff
wounds. Suddenly froze: Tahitian arm was smooth and tanned, without
no trace.
He shook his head, hardly believing them. I flee, but he grabbed
decided.
- You ... you're not my cousin Louis! You ... you are an impostor!
Explain to me what this comedy.
On the face of cruel expression Tahitian sink. This time
Shanna was afraid for good. The man was capable of anything. It
immediately regrets allegations that he had brought.
- Little silly, I regret those words. I will not let
no plan to frustrate me. Ultimately, you are responsible. Do You
You're the one that I recognized when I came
She looked at him without answering, his eyes wide with fear. I shall
seemed to be living a nightmare. No! It was impossible! It could not be

such a thing happen.

- I do not understand anything. You look so good with Louis.
And suddenly understood the truth. Some memories lost memory
to the surface and saw everything clearly. Found his self-control.
- I know who you are. You cousin of Louis and France. I spoke
you. You're the black sheep of the family. Louis had many troubles in
Because of its resemblance to you. Ever since you were little dishonest and lacking
scruples.
The man continued to grin. A hand gripped a
twisting. Pushed to the edge of the waterfall. Shanna struggled as a
crazy and succeed for a moment to balance. He scratches, bites,
but was much stronger than her. He could not escape the grip.
Suddenly felt glides. He tried to cling to clothes
opponent, but in vain.
Everything started to spin. He saw in front of face twisted
hate his cousin Louis and feel fall. If you hit the
stones ...
Contact with water a wake like a palm. Good fins,
touched bottom and climbed back to the surface. Do not knock. Come to
surface, blowing and splashed water.
Page 115
The man stalking with a sardonic smile on his lips. He will not let
out of the water. No one will ever let you go back to Larchwood
Vale.
Shanna began to make plans in a hurry. He had two alternatives:
out where they came from and where the road was easier, or
try to reach the other side. Once there it would not be easy.
The river was bordered by large rocks and sharp. Then there were thorns.
He looked around the opponent. The man came down the path that
AND a waterfall bordered waiting sandy shore. Shanna decided
quickly. He rushes to the opposite bank. It was her only chance.
The man seemed undecided. He doubtless guessed plan. To
Larchwood reach Vale must necessarily cross again
river. But she knew the region, while he does not. He could escape,
if hiding.
He began to run. First have to climb the hill.
Overcome the water fall and reached the shore of the small lake.
The vegetation was dense, almost impenetrable. However pushed his way
among the branches. His legs were bloody, but not even gave
account.
Suddenly, a contained doubt. Even if this was not unknown
Louis, was certainly Tahitian, and must therefore know how to swim very well.
Her plan had no value. He had to follow her quiet
along the stream, where vegetation was sparse and road
accessible. When Shanna will try to cross again, he will

dive ...
Shanna plan was absurd, but he had no choice. He took backtrack
and clinging to the roots, it's crawling on rocks, hardly able to
reach the top of the cascade. He leaned few moments rocky wall
to regain his breath. The opponent could not see it because here
vegetation was very dense. Sorrow, rolled a large stone
to the edge of the waterfall. It was full of sweat AND shaking. With a
scary scream heaved and pushed the empty stone.
There was a fluf! then silence.
He had it? Had they saw the scene, the alien would be mocked
she would have laughed like crazy. But if by chance departed
already, you could have fooled leave this cunning.
Page 116
With heart pounding wildly in his chest, Shanna waited. His courage was
rewarded. Heard footsteps echoing on the shore. He turned back. Subside
stratagem fooled them. There was a long silence. The man had to
try to locate the water body.
Finally, he heard leaving. Win! Tahitian thought was dead and
quietly preparing to take the car to return to Larchwood Vale.
From there he would go to the airport.
You hear the engine noise. The vehicle is removed. What a relief!
Now Shanna had to descend to cross the stream and
if going fast in twenty minutes would be the Forester
Gorge. John was gone, but you will certainly find Edith and
her husband. They will call for help Dan and Brent. Suddenly it
blood run cold: it only if the grandmother left
Agnes! Otherwise ...
Page 117
CHAPTER X
He began to walk. He was exhausted, but the thought of confronting him grandmother
animated by an impostor. He walked more than a quarter of an hour the
along the river. He knew a place where the valley would have been easier
to pass through. The water was deep and the current carry you to the other
shore.
Finally arrive. Leaving the delights slip in the clear water.
It was enough to let the coach. Relax ...
But soon feel that though the current was stronger than ever!
What is going on? In a flash he remembered Morgan's advice:
- Do not you ever trust the river! he repeated them. Spring,
after swelling waters, everything is turned upside down ...
Terrified try to fight. But nothing ... The current was increasingly
faster, wearing it like a straw ...
First of all, I had to rest, making cork. Have
chance to get out of the whirlpool. A little further on, the river widened and

River spill in Waimauku. If approaching the shore would have clung

of any branch ...
But amidst current keeps whirling water. No more
could do nothing. Its crazy race last long, so much.
Was now drawn to Waimauku. Current wore the island
Renards. Maybe it could reach the small island! When he was a child,
often came here. There was a hut that served as refuge
hunters ...
It was in God's hands. Whimsical current can bypass
island, continuing to wear the waves like a dry leaf. May
sooner or later would have struck a rock and ...
After a few minutes that it seemed endless legs feel
bottom. Sharp stones hurt his feet, but did not care.
Finally, reached the shore! It was on the island Renards! Soon will
begin to explore.
Page 118
He crawled up on the gravel feel silky soft sand. He stretched and
eyes closed. Shivering despite the burning sun. Rest
less then pale figure moving, began to look for cottage.
He found finally opened the door and sat down dilapidated.
Cocioaba was dirty and full of spiders. But it gave them carefully.
Cold, inspect the place. God be praised! Find a lamp! To
night could send some signals! Find and some supplies, some
milk, biscuits. But above all, find a chest a
pile of blankets. They were worn, dirty, but enough to
warm.
Wrap with pleasure. Now have to wait. By only
See the attic window of the cabin, and even some of Larchwood
Vale! He decided to lie in ambush. But tired after all the events,
sleep like a baby.
It was already midnight when he awoke suddenly so angry that slept
more! So many things could happen ... Grandma was all right and
unharmed? The impostor fled?
Thank God, no longer was cold! He stood at the window and took a
sigh of relief. The surroundings were intensely bright, shimmering more
torches! Organise high demand. All men patrolling the region
in the dark, looking niece Clotil-dei. What should be
worried! Oh! Proof that no thought drowned!
Feel around the lamp. We have much to find it. Trembling,
able to light a match. Taking advantage of this glint, raises glass
and increase lamp wick. Oh! The match burned his fingers. He lit another and it
walking the wick. Luckily it was not dry. The lamp is switched on and
Shanna flame quickly dwindled to not break the glass. I had to
gradually increase. If he had a better and lamp
practice ...

Stacked near the fireplace lit dry branches. Blaze filled

room light. In one corner you discover some stumps
Carefully stack. I had to fire to last as long as possible.
When it is well lit will come to a sign. It would be safest.
Ah! If he had been wearing thicker. The swimsuit was full of
dried mud and straps cut his skin. Cold, rummage through
drawers and find a knife. Cut a piece of blanket. He made no
Page 119
weight fabric was worn to warp. He completed his work with
teeth until he could stick his head through the opening. It looked like a
"Poncho" very nice. He opened the second blanket and made a kind of
"Jump". The combination was not great, but at least kept them warm!
Get Out. A pale moon light beam around, began to move the lamp
up and down. He cocked ears can hear people cry.
Uttered her name, not that of Louis. So the impostor was
found. If there would have happened would have looked and him.
The wind blew cold. It was useless to cry, it would be heard anyone.
Actually it had to look up fl turning the waterfall.
Sand scratch his leg wounds, andu her pain. The minutes
oozing ... managed to attract attention? Than before and wanted to
climb a rock. But when it goes up, put a foot on dry bush
AND spins a terrible injury. I ran tears of pain. He sat
least to a hurt foot massage. Suddenly she had a brilliant idea.
Thorns! Nothing easier than they burn.
He collected a large package without even caring about
scratches. He returned to the hut and looked for matches and canteen
gas. Only would be empty! We stayed at the lamp anyway, but both
the least!
When unfolded drum, feel so sore a pungent odor. It Was
filled eyes. Spread the precious liquid of branches, and sat down with
Behind the wind, lit a match ... Result overcome them
any expectations. The flames rose high noisy. Minutes who
i thought they were followed hours. Finally, he heard a cry, then another ... A
had found, tried to answer, but the wind had scattered words
opposite direction ... AND I was so tired it's all crying her t
Numbness of warmth doze.
- Hey! Hey!
This time the voice was clear, almost unreal clear. They used
a megaphone! No doubt on the police patrol!
- Hey! Anybody on the island? cried the voice, you are, Suzan Carew?
If you are moving the lamp twice from top to bottom!
The call was repeated immediately. But Shanna did not need to be
say twice! The subject of the order. Her voice trailed off, but the
voices were heard some other bank.

Page 120
All apropiaser luminous points and now resembled a
lively fire. The news spread among the salvation they are seeking.
- You all right and healthy?
Flooded with happiness, light shake again. Then silence. Of
No doubt consult among themselves to find the best solution.
Finally, the voice was heard again longed beyond the waters.
- We're going to look for a boat to Blair Hill ... A boat at Blair
Hill. Go into the hut, sheltered. Should
do not be afraid ... We'll be back in half an hour. Have you heard?
Answer me that before? She repeats the signal agreed.
- Well, unknown voice said, I finished transmitted ...
Suzana it seemed strange noises are heard, and a voice
familiar cry ... Morgan! A back! It was here! From now on
everything will be fine!
His voice, amplified echo, reached up to her.
- Do not worry, my dear! All is well! I will come myself
looking for you! Grandmother kisses you!
Finished!
The Blair family were the only boat that had the parties
That one. Use it only when they went fishing. Perhaps now no
there was no water. It should be towed to shore. That would take at least a
hour!
He returned to the cottage and off the lamp. The fire was burning well and light
pretty good room. He felt like a newborn. Soon will
come to save and dear Mamita was good. Might play the
Robinson waiting for the rescuers.
Discover an old kettle and some sachets of tea. Glad it
went to the river, carefully wash the bowl and fill it with water. A little later
sip hot drink with relish. Wolfed down two biscuits soaked in
Tea with the same pleasure that would eat caviar! Emotion an
overwhelmed. This picnic will help you not feel time passes. But
His eyes remained fixed on the window. Then
resignation. This watch does not do any good. Rescuers will not
could arrive so soon. The long before the fire and looked dance
the flames.
Page 121
But soon the noise of the world's most surprising! Here on
this desert island surrounded by water, a horse whinny! Nor
had time to recover from the surprise, that his head appeared in the doorway
Morgan!
- Susan, Susan, my love!
He walked over to her and took her in his arms, fragile little creature appeared in
dirty blankets.
- Are you all right, dear? You're not hurt? My love!

A cover with kisses. She snuggled her chest and put her head on
his shoulder ...
- You ... You came, she whispered, you came looking for me! Morgan! You ...
said ... My love! Even so, my dear? Lest
I find the joy of living makes you say that?
He knew the answer beforehand. I recognized the feeling. But have
need to hear the truth from his own mouth. Only thus could be
safe.
- If you really believe what I said? Adored my dear! How
you doubt my words? I love you, of course, I love you like a
crazy. I love you five years in secret, without ceasing. Oh, you were
I tried to look away! But how could I? It was a love
at first and after the last meeting I never returned. Girl
Twelve years had become the most seductive woman. I was
fear that you will not find me good enough for you. And then, the
beginning, I had eyes only for John! Suzan! Remember the day
blessed when we went up to the attic to read letters
Victorine? Oh! My sweet! Hardly I stopped to take you there
arms! Yearn ... but I could not let her wear.
Everyone is waiting to see you married with John. Me too
I thought you were in love with him. I had no right to force
destiny ... Everything seemed to close. You were both young ... For
Often, in the beginning, I said, "Nepriceputule! Why do you hide
feelings? Why do not you tell? "I know, I was right! It would not be out
anything good out of it! John left you and poor became engaged to France.
For you, that was a nice old save face.
Ah! I do not care for these appearances. You recently accused
opportunism and how right you were! I missed the chance! I gave
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advice, we announced the so-called engagement. But I hope like crazy! Will
finally understand, I said. I will see are actually
will realize my love ... What a mistake! At the end
meeting, you broke me coldly! I did not say anything. Not
I wanted to share you with anyone. I wanted to come to me willingly.
I am a funny. A fly again with kisses. Then voice
uncertain asked:
- Now, my dear, what are you gonna do? A reject me again?
Suzan laughed. He was so happy ...
- Let me ... Let me answer you! she soars. Listen
Morgan Hervington-BIair. You know why I left Larchwood
Vale? Why I walked for five years by everyone? To
that ... I thought that I loved! Lord! What a fool I was! In
That afternoon, in the attic and I found that I was
madly in love with you. I had decided it over with John,
even before the surprise in the garden with Fran! But you did not see

nothing, understands nothing! I ...

- Shut up, 'he said softly. Stephanie explained everything. We passed
both through the same anguish after your demise! He confided
All ...
AND he burst out laughing. It was a laugh conqueror, which read happiness.
- Morgan! Kiss me again!
- Suzan, he muttered, suddenly regained seriously. Suzan, I thought
dead!
He shivered and their lips came together ... Long afterward,
took her by the fire and crouched beside her, wrapped in a blanket ...
- How did you get here? she asked curiously. You are a
real charmer!
- It's very simple, 'he whispered, smiling. I know the river well, just
you know. Between the river and is a sandbank island where you can traverse.
The passage is narrow and often, when the waters rise, it is impossible
face. I went to risk! You could thank him Gris! She
made a good bath!
He gently stroked her hair. After a while he began to laugh.
- If Clotilde and Elise we would see would be shocked. They dream
orange blossom and organ music. And I'm here, drenched to the skin,
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a girl ready to do yard downright disgusting! Suzan, it's hard
funny!
She looked at him, he looked at himself in turn and laughed.
- My love, Morgan said slowly when redevenir serious,
... you're not hurt, are not you?
Slowly, the firelight, he undid the blankets. When he saw
the poor legs full of scratches, was horrified.
- Alas! Suzan! Forgive me! This is all because of me. I would be
wanted to tell you what happened ...
- Leave was not your fault! I foolishly left taken by the nose!
You see, Louis ... Louis and not ...
- I Know It! Is Armand de Ouercy! Let me tell you. In a
Once I had a hunch. "Louis" forgotten too many things,
too many people ... The story seemed plausible accident but ...
Aunt Elise was not deceived. Remember when we walked
with her in the park? Noted a curious thing that I shared with.
The whole family Rossignol has a particular sign. No ear lobes.
Comprised of doubt to this so-called "Louis" has examined
ears and saw them perfectly normal! Either she remembered very well
that Louis, as a child, have this defect. Even I often tease
for that. And as the old lady told me indignantly, many
things can change in a man, but never ears!
There was a detail that anxiety Elise. Louis wrote after
accident. Not that I particularly would like to send letters, but

wanted to reassure relatives about his health. States that the

had much luck, because he hit his head! And our intruder its
amnesia motivated just by accident! Yesterday morning, Aunt
Elise has a trap. Showed a superb candlestick saying:
"Perhaps you remember, Louis, your parents had an identical". In
reality was a wedding gift from Margot, a unique course!
Fell in race hustlers. He "reminded" sure that candlestick
comfortable living room adorned in Tahiti! Aunt Elise was
clear. The same evening he went to the police Franois Papeete.
It was well known character. I immediately issued a warrant
arrest. He owned a fabric factory. Does the consciousness
many young people who have died. When the arrest warrant was issued
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this sinister character was in Los Angeles. He remembered his cousin
Louis and gave away some calls. Newly climber who do not
ceased to climb peaks participated in an expedition to the Andes.
Armand de Ouercy he decided to come here. Oh! Doubtless
no thought from the beginning to impersonate Louis; just wanted to
serve his kinsman to make entry into the family. But you've
"Recognized" and, of course, did not escape the occasion. These vagabonds know
Always take advantage of such a bargain. True Louis
had earlier mistake to tell us, and of course
and about your escapades. That was enough! Morning
I went to the police station in Christchurch with Franois. There was a need to
issue an international arrest warrant, it took me more
time than I thought. I wanted to put you on guard, my dear. We
I thought he has no idea what we were doing and ... For more
I sent securely with Dan on the field. We hope to be quiet rest
day.
When I returned home he was preparing delete it. He
told a bedtime story. That leave, and the day will send
car back. I asked you. He told me that you went to you
bathe. At the moment I believed him. Fortunately, my grandmother had not returned
yet, so I accompanied Dan. We saw scratches on
his hands ... Oh! Shanna, I was terribly afraid! I thought
maybe you ... attacked ... or what not! I was like a madman. We ...
I jumped at it and I almost disfigured! I did not leave until
not told me the truth, scoundrel!
- You said and pushed me in the water? Morgan become livid.
- He did that? I did not say anything! His version was less
different. After him, you've thrown into the water and have not appeared to
surface. A long tried to find you, but in vain ... I
Dan rushed toward the water. A few hours we have sunk without interruption,
I researched the two rivers ... Then the police started looking for you, to
organized a major action. The rest you know! Now it's

Yours! How on earth did you get here?

Suzan launched into a detailed story. Once finished,
Morgan took her in his arms and squeezed hard.
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- You know, Clotilde was awesome, 'he said softly. It was great
worried, but not lose courage! Repeat again: "I have to
find, must "! She prepared for hot drinks and appetizers
rescuers, organizing a sort of permanent guard. Edith, Nessie,
mother, joined as well. But here you are, my love and this is
essential! This time does not leave you! To hell with so much waiting!
We will announce our engagement immediately!
- Morgan, it's great!
We hugged, laughed like children. I waited years for
Fortunately ...
They walked to the window. Torchlight is seen on the shore
opposed.
- Probably just put the boat in the water, slowly explains Morgan. Should
advantage of these last moments when we are alone! Rescuers not
will soon appear and we will not only have a minute
November 2!
- Tonight, after we return, I will seek ring
emeralds and we will announce the engagement, will you?
- Awesome, my dear! approve it, but not all. After a
Engagement is a marriage.
- I ... we're gonna need some time, she protested without
conviction. You will have to take care of wedding dress, to send
invitations ...
- Suzan Carew, Morgan said solemnly, listen to me: I'm tired
shall i wait! I wait five years! We let in spending, but
we will get married soon. I swear that we will be husband and wife before
Christmas, even if it will have to kidnap you! Dress grandparents
You expect your Rossignol Bay, and invitations to do good to
rush.
- I'll do as you want, my love, 'she said simply.
In fact even she was eager ...
He stretched lazily. Suddenly his face darkened.
- And this horrible Armand is still here?
- No, of course, my dear. I handed over to the police!
She delights satisfied and let his head on his shoulder ...
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Morgan's father was the first landed on the island. He
warmly hugged the young saved. Excitedly let go
tears on his shoulder parents.
- Come on, Morgan said his father with a very excited voice,

Your embrace his future bride!

- How does God care of everything! Stephane said Blair.
Then add less ceremonious:
- Bravo, boy! You made a good choice!
It seems that the job was cooled, otherwise I would have pulled the handkerchief and would not
be
covered her face with her ...
It was the last day of the party. Everywhere was a festive atmosphere.
Invitations were distributed between Larchwood Vale, Linden Peaks and
Blair Hills. The sunlight was splendid park. The only one
missing was John Forester. Accept a trade mission in Australia
offered for sale after the Forester Gorge.
On the first floor, Clotilde and Mrs. Carew help the young
bride dressed. Several photographers crowded anxious in
the door; was even a representative of the local television. Old
chariot was pulled in the driveway and I expect the newlyweds. One
lustruiser and engravings were shining like us. It was a marriage
old-fashioned.
The ceremony took place in a charming and ancient church, built
settlers. Girls Martina were some lovely ladies of
honor their pink dresses. For the first time, intimidated by
festive atmosphere, and they were obedient.
At eleven o'clock in the morning, the small chapel organ march attack
Suite. All support was standing. Grandmother and Aunt Elise seemed
very excited. But do not cry, the tears dried up too much.
Morgan turned his head. Shanna moved slowly to his father's arm.
He wore a white dress with special thanks collar and sleeves
puffed covered with old lace. As her grandmother had on her head a
wreath of orange blossoms. A transparent veil veil replaced
traditional.
He seemed to not touch the ground. The neck shone a gorgeous necklace
emeralds, wedding present from Morgan.
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Holding a small bouquet of white roses MIOZOTIS and is
sat down next to her future husband and I smiled. Then, solemn, their eyes
crossing.
She was serene and calm, without the slightest trace of nervousness,
wonderfully happy.
- My brothers, we gather today to glorify ...
The priest uttered the usual phrases. The ceremony began. Little Elise
turned to her grandmother and said loudly and stung:
- Tell me, Grandma! This is the famous meeting?
The two old is watching with excitement.
- Yes, my dear! Aunt Elise said in a low voice, you
right. That is the meeting.

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