Dillard Beach Mystery – 76

Fall, Winter 1683

Rebekah Rand Chapman spent a restless night listening to the sound of her son breathing as he lay in the bed beside her. She was keenly aware the space should have been occupied by her new husband, but that was not part of their agreement. Was it right that she force such an accommodation from this man? What was she trying to prove? Lying still in the dark, Rebekah replayed the events of her wedding day over and over in her mind: the small gathering of friends, the words of the magistrate, and the feast that followed.

On the surface, the day had been a happy success. Edward, handsome in his finest Captain’s uniform, met his guests with an easy elegance as he played the part of gracious host. She had spent the day smiling and greeting their visitors, leaving Jacinta to direct the servants and handle the details of the event. Rebekah had been impressed with how well the housekeeper managed it all. There had been no shortage of drink or food and every guest left the celebration satisfied.

During the reception Edward and Rebekah smiled and laughed and all appeared to be well between them. If asked, their guests would have to agree the couple appeared very happy and deeply committed to their union. Only Philippa Pritchett sensed there was trouble brewing beneath the surface. Something Rebekah had let slip during their conversation, caused her to wonder at the sincerity of the new couple’s arrangement.

She cornered Rebekah just by the entrance to the storeroom. “I hope you are planning to continue your work as a midwife, Rebekah,” Philippa asked when the two friends had a moment alone.

“That will depend on whether the women of the community ask me to do so. Having recent accusations of witchcraft brought against me has not endeared me to many of the population. Some women and many of their husbands still suspect me of some manner of witchery.”

“Surely, the women are not taken in by such false gossip, Rebekah. Have they no memory of all the good you have done? You have helped dozens of women in their time of need, not to mention the aid you have given to their children and husbands when they fall ill or break a bone.”

Rebekah shook her head. “The persuasive power of the magistrate and fear of what they do not understand is at the heart of their anxiety. It will take time to overcome the gossip. But I feel certain my good deeds will outweigh any fears. The fact that Captain Chapman is still willing to marry me is a good sign. Do you not agree?”

Philippa smiled. “There is no better endorsement. He is a worthy partner for any woman.”

“I trust he will be for me as well, though I may not be an easy partner for him.”

“What do you mean, Rebekah?” Philippa asked. “Surely you love the man.”

“I do, but it is a gradual love and may not find its zenith easily. I pray he has patience with me.”

“I do not understand. What is it you are waiting for Rebekah?”

“I do not know, Philippa. My mind is certain but my heart is most unsure.”

“Unsure of what? You either love Chapman or you do not. And as you are now wedded to the man, you have made the decision in spite of yourself.”

Rebekah suddenly looked forlorn, turned and walked away. “I am a foolish woman,” she said quietly under her breath.

Philippa studied Rebekah. “Is there any reason to doubt his commitment to your union. I could not help but notice some hesitation between you. Surely you are not afraid of what goes on in the bedroom!”

Rebekah turned her face away. “Do not be foolish, Philippa. I am a midwife after all, once married and mother of a young son. I know more than most what goes on behind bedroom doors.”

“Then why do you hesitate? I know women who would gladly take your place this very night. What causes you to pause?”

“It may sound half-witted to you, Philippa, but I do not want anyone to rule my life. I am my own person. I must remain free to be myself.”

“And you believe you lose that freedom if you bed the man you just married?” Philippa shook her head in disbelief. “Perhaps the rumors are correct and you are under an evil spell. You are talking in riddles, Rebekah. Captain Chapman would never force you to do anything against your will.” She reached out and took hold of Rebekah’s hand, studying the wedding ring so freshly placed on her finger. “In all my years on this earth I have known a great many men who took great pride in controlling others be they wife or child. But not your new husband. You need not fear the Captain. Go to his bed on this, your wedding night and be the wife you have promised to be.”

But she did not.