Free Hearts That Survive by Yvonne Lehman Page B

to the toys," S. J. said, "If Cyril Beaumont and Craven Dowd weren't aware of what can come of toys, you wouldn't be near their company, nor I daresay, eating at the captain's table."
    John scoffed, "I'd be in steerage, perhaps."
    "Mmm, maybe second class. For your information, I've been down to—" He glanced around and said "second class" as if saying a dirty word. John knew he was kidding, and yet they were both aware even second class was a dirty word to some of the more elite.
    "Seriously, John. There are quite a few writers and artists down there. I doubt you'd have time to join me there since you'll be honeymooning for the rest of the trip."
    "Perhaps in New York."
    "That's possible," S. J. replied. "Negotiations have already taken place over the wireless between Abington and my London publisher. However," he said congenially, "let's get together in New York if at all possible. Perhaps with some of the writers on the ship. Incidentally, many second-class passengers would be first class on another ship, such as the Mauretania or the Olympic."
    That was interesting. "I didn't know that. But I haven't crossed before and didn't pay my own passage."
    S. J. showed no surprise. He likely assumed Beaumont would have done that. "You must really be a genius."
    "No," John said. "Just a dreamer."
    "And sometimes," S. J. replied, "dreams come true."
    Sometimes, crossed John's mind. A short while ago at dinner remarks were made about the wonders of the ship never ceasing to amaze even those accustomed to the world's best. He thought it was Daley who quipped, "This is almost too good to be true."
    But it was true. John had found his dream wife. S. J. had lost his. He had her forever in a book, but that wouldn't keep him warm at night, wouldn't both hasten and still the beat of his heart.
    Now, without questioning, John would savor the reality of love and happiness with the one who would make him complete, on this ship of dreams.

 
15
     
     
     
     
    L ydia didn't want to offend anyone by hurrying away from the À la Carte, and showed her ring to all who approached her. But there was so much to do.
    Before Caroline left the À la Carte, she'd said, "Do you want help with anything? Like the invitation, music, order of the ceremony, anything particular in the vows, rice thrown at you?"
    Lydia laughed. "I'll forego the rice." She sobered quickly. "I'd love your help."
    Caroline nodded and said she wanted to get a breath of air and hoped her lungs didn't freeze in the process, and that she would then be on the promenade deck or in her room.
    William had walked over. He nodded to Lydia and spoke to Caroline, "Let's take that walk, my dear. Seems many of the fellows are occupied with plans for an upcoming wedding."
    "Oh, but you will have your brandy and cigars?" Caroline asked.
    "To be sure," William said. "What's the end of a great evening without a visit to the smoking lounge?"
    Caroline rolled her eyes for Lydia only, and they grinned. William offered his arm, and they left the À La Carte.
    Lydia sought the Astors to thank them.
    They were delighted about the wedding. "Lydia, you have made this crossing anything but boring." Madeleine's lips pursed slightly as she glanced coyly at her husband. "Rather wish I'd thought of it."
    They laughed lightly, and after casting an adoring glance at his wife, John Jacob said, "Our staff and the ship's staff will handle everything about the reception. So don't give that a thought."
    "Unless," Madeleine added, "you want anything in particular."
    "I'm sure I couldn't think of anything more delightful than what you will do. Thank you so much."
    "Our pleasure," the two said together.
    Soon, Lydia rushed out to meet Caroline. She and William stood at the railing. Slowing her steps, Lydia viewed the calm sea and thought how smooth the surface looked, reminding her of how things were working out for her and John—so much better than they could have imagined.
    She became aware of William's resonant