To Love and Cherish by Tracie Peterson Page B

eyes. “My mistress attempted to get up and dress for the tea, but she hasn’t the strength. Please report that any further activity will only prolong Mrs. McKinley’s poor condition.”
    Condition? Since their arrival, neither Mrs. McKinley nor her maids had mentioned any sort of condition. A condition suggested long-term illness, yet they had spoken only of weariness from their travels. Perhaps Mrs. McKinley needed a doctor. What if Mrs. Hollister was correct about the president’s wife suffering from ill health? What if she died? Though ridiculous, the thought sent a shiver scurrying down Melinda’s spine. “I would be pleased to send for Mrs. Mifflin’s family physician. She has already alerted him that you would be visiting. He agreed to make himself available should you become ill during your visit.”
    â€œThank you, but there’s no need for a physician. Rest is the answer. By tomorrow I should be much better.” She glanced at the porcelain clock on the mahogany dressing table. “You’d better go to Dorothea. I’m sure she is waiting for you to assist her.”
    Melinda wanted to remain and further encourage a visit from the doctor, but time wouldn’t permit. “I’ll do my best to deliver your news with care, but Mrs. Mifflin may want to come and speak to you privately.”
    â€œI would be pleased to receive her, but if she could wait for several hours. I need to sleep.”
    Jean hurried to the side of the bed and gently removed the extra pillow from the bed. “Of course you do, mistress. I’ll pull the drapes and see that you’re not disturbed.” The maid sent a warning look in Melinda’s direction.
    â€œI’ll advise Mrs. Mifflin that you’ll be resting.” Melinda turned and hurried from the room.
    She raced down the hallway as though her skirts were on fire. Mrs. Mifflin would be prepared to scold her soundly. The moment she opened the door, Mrs. Mifflin strode toward her with anger flashing in her eyes. “There you are! Of all days to keep me waiting, how could you be late today? Ida will think me a horrid hostess.”
    â€œShe won’t think any such thing; she is your dear friend. Why don’t you sit down at your dressing table and I’ll fashion your hair. We have more than enough time.” Melinda waited until the woman was seated. She picked up the brush and slowly drew it through the older woman’s hair. “I am late because Mrs. McKinley requested a short visit with me.”
    â€œWhatever for? Did you see her gown? What color is she wearing?” Mrs. Mifflin met Melinda’s eyes in the mirror.
    â€œShe asked that I tell you she isn’t feeling well enough to attend the tea.” Melinda waited a moment, choosing her words carefully. “Her complexion is very pale, and her attempt to dress for the afternoon festivities proved impossible.” Melinda continued to brush, hoping the motion would calm her mistress. “I inquired if she needed the care of a physician, but she refused.” Mrs. Mifflin remained surprisingly calm while Melinda parted her hair in the center and brushed her dark locks. “Do you prefer loose curls around your temples?”
    Her mistress gave only a curt nod. Mrs. Mifflin was trying to mask her feelings, but she wasn’t doing a very good job.
    Melinda felt sorry for the woman and decided to do her best to offer encouragement and perhaps a little mercy. “Mrs. McKinley knew that you would be terribly disappointed. She cares very much for your well-being and hopes sincerely that her bad news won’t cause you too much despair. She said you might visit her later . . . in a few hours . . . after she’s had a rest.”
    Using a deft hand, Melinda finished styling Mrs. Mifflin’s hair in quick time. She was amazed that the older woman had remained calm. In fact, she didn’t utter a word as