Free The Harrison: A Beautiful Place to Die (Madeline Donovan Mysteries Book 2) by Madison Kent Page A

curious activities.
     
    When she arrived home, the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon lingered in the air. She knew Mrs. O'Malley must have baked her father's favorite apple pie. It was good to be home.
    Mrs. O'Malley walked through the swinging kitchen door into the dining area and said, "Your father is expected shortly, Miss, and you have a special-delivery letter waiting for you."
    "Thank you, Mrs. O'Malley and thank you for baking Father's favorite pie. It smells wonderful."
    "If ever a man deserved it, it's your father. He's a saint of a man, that one."
    "You won't get an argument from me on that, but you are too. The way you take care of us is nothing short of saintly."
    Mrs. O'Malley smiled a broad, sheepish grin as her shoulders moved back in pride. "Now..."
    "Don't even try to deny it. You know there's no one quite like you."
    Madeline sometimes was remiss in appreciating the treasured Mrs. O'Malley and decided she would be more forthcoming with praise for her. These disappearances had made her think of her family and friends and how important they were to her.
    She went back to the main room to the table stand where Mrs. O'Malley left the incoming post. There she found Hugh Scott's ship-to-shore telegram awaiting her.
    June 27, 1889
    Madeline,
    I was delighted to receive your letter. It arrived right before I left to embark on my journey to America. I would be happy to accept your invitation to stay for a few days until I am able to secure lodging, for I would not like to impose for too long a time.
    The seas have been rough and I have been forced to stay in my cabin with a serious case of sea sickness, but Phillip tells me tomorrow should bring calmer seas. I hope so, I do not wish to arrive looking like a bedraggled dog, for that is what I feel like now.
    I am anxious to hear of your adventures on Erie Street and look forward to seeing you and your father. Please give him my regards.
    The ship is due to arrive in port on or about June 29th.
     
    Your friend,
    Hugh
     
    Today was the 28th of June; the weather had cooled just enough that the breeze blowing through the open window made the rooms comfortable. Hugh would be here when the weather should prove to be enjoyable, and would stay until the advent of autumn and its cornucopia of changing leaves. Her excitement after reading the news that he would be there in just one day was evident as she ran to tell Mrs. O'Malley.
     
    "Mrs. O'Malley, he will be here tomorrow. Imagine that, after so many months I will see my friend again. Through the darkness, there is a wondrous light that gives us such reason to live. May we have something special for dinner?"
    "Is this Mr. Scott you are referring to?"
    "Yes, of course, the most charming, Mr. Scott. You will think him quite the gentle, kind soul; I am certain."
    "It is good to see you smile and have some spark back in your eyes. Your father will enjoy having the young man here. He has spoken of Hugh with great praise."
    "As he deserves. I feel guilty to have such joy in my heart with all the pain the Falco's have laid at their door."
    "Nonsense. You have taken on this job of detective to help others, but in that you cannot deprive yourself of all happiness. It would be an unwise choice to continue for I'm sure you will find many a fallen tree in the forest you are entering."
    "Of course you are right. Joy brings us strength so that we can go on. I must look into my wardrobe to find something suitable to wear when I meet him at the dock."
    After laying her clothes out for her meeting with Hugh, she decided she would attempt to visit Louie and Rosa. It had been several days since the funeral, and she hoped they might be ready to speak with her about Maria.
     
    When she arrived, the house was eerily quiet, and a lady, who said she was a cousin, seated her in the living area. Even though the draperies remained open, the house was as dark as midnight. It began to rain, a light rain, but the tapping of it on the window