excerpt
“Andrew McNeill, Dave’s grandfather, had the house built when
he brought his young family from Scotland,” Penny explained as
they made their way downstairs. “He spared no expense. Farming
was profitable at the turn of the century and building materials
were cheap. Dave’s father took over the farm from his father, then it
was left to Dave to carry on when Dad died. Alan isn’t interested in
staying at home to farm.”
“But he seemed quite happy to be doing whatever he was doing
with the tractor when I drove up,” Sarah interjected.
“Oh yes, he’s a good help when he’s home. He still thinks of this
as his home, and it will be, for as long as he wants it that way.”
Sarah had been carrying little David in her arms but now, because
he was beginning to fuss and squirm, she handed him to his mother.
“He’s getting tired,” Penny said, “it’s nap time. Why don’t you go
and sit in the parlour, Sarah, while I put him down.”
“Thanks, but I’d better go home,” Sarah said, glancing at the
watch on her wrist, “I’ve already been here longer than I intended.
I’ve enjoyed it so much that the time has flown.”
“But I haven’t had a chance to ask if you’ll come to the fall fair
with us at the end of September.” Penny bounced the fussing baby
on her hip. “I know it’s weeks away, but it’s the event of the year in
Nimkus, and we start planning our exhibits early.”
“Oh, do you exhibit?” Sarah asked, her interest piqued.
Penny laughed. “Oh my, yes, I’ve become a regular country girl
with my garden produce and homemade bread and canning. And
Dave shows his best animals, wins lots of prizes, too. It’s fun, Sarah,
we’ll have to get you started on it next year.”
“I’d like that. Yes, I’d love to go to the fair with you.” She paused,
then added, “Maybe Ben will go, too.”
Penny shook her head. “I doubt it, he never does. But who knows?
Maybe he’ll go now that he has you to go with him.”
“Yes, I hope he will. I’m sure it’s been very lonely for him having only
his mother for companionship ever since he was a very young man.”
Penny glanced at her quickly, and Sarah had the momentary impression
that the look was one of surprise. But she said nothing
and, after warm goodbyes, Sarah went out to the yard where she
found Flicka waiting for her. Alan had tied her in the shade of a
large old maple near the horse paddock…
Manolis Aligizakis 