ED Tatum

Ed Tatum

happyhugo

Copyright (c) 01/22/16

 

Romance, Happiness

11,918 words

A Brattleboro Tale

 

Readers score  7.42

Grady Potter had a long-time friend, Ed, who died.  He is taking care of the estate until Ed's niece named  Katherine shows up to claim her inheritance.  The two don't hit it off too well. Different personalities  build resentment between them, but they do agree to  exchange Christmas cards.

Attention:

The months, the days, and the years as they come along, are important to this story.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Grady had a long term friend, Ed, who passed away. He is taking care of the estate until a niece of Ed’s, named Katherine, shows up to claim her inheritance. The two don’t hit it off that well. Different personalities build resentment between them, but they do agree to exchange Christmas cards.

~~~~~~~

June, 17, 2002

Grady Potter

Tatum Road

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

I was driving home from town and could see a person trudging up the hill ahead of me. The person was woman. She was young and attractive. There were only two properties on the road; mine, and the Ed Tatum place. Ed’s place was at the end of the road.

Further along past Ed’s place was a thrown up road that had reverted to Ed many years ago. You could define it now, but in another few years it would disappear altogether. Ed told me about it, and where it went to. It was over – over the hill to a cluster of farms from when the area was settled a century and a-half-ago. Much like the road, evidence of the buildings would soon be long gone. He took me over there one time to see the cellar holes.

I went past the woman and stopped ahead of her, waiting for her to reach me. I leaned out and asked, “Would you like a ride?”

“I don’t know you.”

“No, I don’t expect you do. I think I know who you are though. If I’m not mistaken, you would be Ed Tatum’s niece, Katherine. He talked of you some. I’ve been expecting someone to come and take over his place.”

“I could use a lift. How far is it from here? I thought sure there would be cars on the road. There is a road sign stating this is, Tatum Road.”

“Nobody but me and Ed have lived on this road for years. Ed is dead, so there isn’t much travel. I will be glad to have a neighbor again. I was getting lonely up here all by myself.” I glanced at her and could see how attractive she was.

“Well, you may still be. I don’t plan on being too friendly and I don’t know if I’m staying. I would like, though, to avail myself of the ride you offered.” I didn’t say anything, just leaning across the seat to open the door when she went around to the passenger’s side. She pulled the suitcase onto her lap as she sat down and proceeded to look straight ahead. She didn’t ask my name and I didn’t volunteer it. Why should I? I felt pushed away even when I was trying to be friendly and helpful.

I went right by my house and a quarter mile further, I wheeled into the Tatum yard. “We’re here. I’ve been doing chores until somebody came to take over. You’re here and that ends what I’ve agreed to. Your goats will need feeding in another hour. Feed and close them in for the night. Directions are posted near the feed box.

“The biggest goat with teats needs milking, and you had better gather the eggs. The hens run loose and lay eggs everywhere. Hunt for them around the yard. It’s best to gather them or the snakes will get them. A snake trying to swallow an egg is a sight. I’ve heard one egg will be food a whole week for most snakes. Oh, the key to the side door is under the third rock.”  I drove off, leaving her staring after me. I knew I would see her later.

I was right. It was almost dark when she knocked on my door. I backed away from the stove and went to the door. “Yes?”

“You’re a mean bastard, did you know that?”

“Yep, I sure am. Miss Kitty, come on in and have some supper. Actually I have hope for you. I thought you would be here an hour before this. Let me introduce myself. I’m Gary Potter. Most people just call me Potter.”

“I’m pleased to know you even if you are an unpleasant individual. I’m Katherine Tatum. Ed Tatum was my father’s uncle. I was here one time before I went to grade school. That’s the only time I ever met him. Uncle Ed left his property to me. Why, I have no idea.”

“I know why. You were his only living relative. He was always hoping you would come to see him.”

“You evidently were his friend. Being that, I can see why you could resent me after meeting me and knowing I didn’t visit when I should have.”

“Some, I guess, but that wasn’t the only reason. I mean I offered you a ride and you accepted and then said you didn’t intend to be friendly. Also I’m still waiting for a thank you for giving you a lift. But then I have been an asshole too, so maybe we had better wait a little before we trade any more unpleasant barbs.”

“I agree we had better get to know each other more than we do now. I realize, not becoming acquainted with my uncle was a missed opportunity. I take it you probably aren’t going to call me Katherine. Call me Kitty, although I’m not that awful fond of it.”

“Okay, I do know we aren’t going to shed any blood over our differences. Sit up to the table. I have meat, vegetables and mashed potatoes. I can even dig up some wine if you would like. How about some apple cider? I keep some in a cask in the cellar. I brought some up earlier.”

“I haven’t eaten since breakfast. The food smells wonderful, and I will try the cider.”

Kitty was hungry. I had the cider in a pitcher and she was pouring herself another glass as she emptied the one by her plate. “Hey, this is pretty good stuff. Did you make it yourself?”

“I did, and it was Ed who showed me how. It’s pressed from his apples too. You have an orchard of trees back of your house. The cider might have more kick to it than you realize, so be careful.”

“I can handle this easily. I’ll bet if we become friends, someday I’ll be drinking you under the table.”

“We’ll have to become friends first.”

“I’ll agree to that. Say, what is this meat, it’s really tasty? It has more bones than chicken.”

“It’s not chicken, it’s rabbit. I raise both types of rabbits – meat type, and the kind for fur.”

“Oh, my God, you mean I’m eating one of those cute little bunnies?”

“That’s right. Don’t be shocked because you will be raising meat to eat too, if you stay here and keep farming.”

“What am I raising for meat?”

“What do you think all those goats you fed this afternoon are for?”

“Oh, I didn’t milk that goat. I don’t know how. Potter, tell me it isn’t so?”

“It is so. Oh, I should have cautioned you about the big goat that was in the separate pen. You should be careful around him.”

“Why?” Kitty was beginning to slur her speech.

“Because he’s dangerous. He could knock you down and trample all over you. He’s dangerous to everyone and not just to women either.”

“You haven’t answered why or how?”

“Have you heard the expression, ‘something as a Billy goat”? Kitty looked bewildered. Maybe it was the cider she had been drinking. It took her a few minutes, and then her face flamed. I continued while smiling, “I’m just saying the animal has horns and he can hurt you, so be careful.”

“You’re awful. I’m not going to play with you anymore. Potter, I need to borrow a flashlight to get home with. There is no electricity and I guess there may be a pump for the water ’cause there isn’t any coming from the faucets.” Kitty tried to stand and was having a problem. I caught her when she began to tip over.

She mumbled something, I deciphered it as something about me having my way with her, but she didn’t care. This was when she snuggled into the arms that were holding her.

I carried Kitty into the spare bedroom and laid her down on the bed. I took her shoes off and threw a comforter over her. I went out and drove up to Ed’s place. She had fed the goats, but with only me knowing where the chickens nested I could see she hadn’t picked up many eggs. I didn’t look too hard for them in the dark after I stepped on one I hadn’t seen.

I went into the house and down into the cellar. This was a rambling old farm house and the cellar had never been cemented. It was a bit dank although tight enough to keep water from coming in. There were old cupboards beyond the wood burning furnace filled with empty fruit jars. Also there were broken chairs and tools here and there stacked out of the walk way.

Spider webs and dust hung from the ceiling and had taken over the corners. You couldn’t go through a door without it getting onto your face and in your hair.

The electric entrance was at the far end of the cellar and it would take a brave person with only a flash light to search for it if you didn’t know where it was located. I pushed the switch on and heard the water pump start.

I opened the cellar windows and then went up stairs and opened all the windows that had screens on. I did the same with the second story. I looked around and guessed the place would be okay until Kitty got home in the morning.

I wondered what Kitty would be using for a vehicle. It was six miles to the center of town. It must be that Ed’s lawyer had contacted Kitty and she would need to see him. I was looking forward to see how she was going to handle all these problems that were facing her.

I looked in on her sleeping. She was on her back snoring with her mouth wide open. I positioned her on her side to be more comfortable. The bathroom was across from the bedroom so I left that door open with the night-light on. I closed my door and went to sleep.

I was up at my usual 5 o’clock time to feed my rabbits. I checked to see if I had any new bunnies which I didn’t. I would have to move a couple of the does today, but would do that later. It took me over an hour to complete my chores.

I went in and started coffee. I heard the toilet flush soon after it was done. I poured a cup of coffee and put it on the table. I started doing last night’s dishes. I heard the chair behind me scrape, but didn’t turn around immediately.

When I did, Kitty was sitting with her head in her hands, elbows on the table. Her eyes came up and looked at me. Suddenly tears began rolling down her face and she started sobbing. “I want to die. I feel like crap and I don’t have any family. I hardly know where I am. I know I’m way out of my element here where there isn’t any civilization. I was going to come to Vermont and live by myself, but I’ll never make it.

“I don’t even have a way to get to town. I thought Uncle Ed would have a car I could drive, but all there is, is an old tractor backed under on of the sheds. Wouldn’t I look good driving that down Main Street, even if I could figure out how to get it started?”

“Maybe it would be the tractor they were looking at. That tractor is antique.”

“Oh, you make me so mad!”

“Ed gave up driving when he reached ninety. You’re  not too bad looking, and driving a tractor and you’re pretty enough to catch some of the attention.”

“You bastard, now you’re hitting on me.”

“Whoa, there Kitty, that was a complement, and I meant every bit of it. We haven’t figured each other out yet, but we need to. We’ve certainly got off on the wrong foot. For now, I’ll get you a couple of Tylenol to make you feel better.

“I’ll make you some breakfast and that’ll settle your stomach. If you want to see something beautiful while I’m at the range, look out the living room window. There is a deer with two little fawns chasing each other while she feeds.” In a few minutes I heard her giggle as she watched the deer.

She soon came back and sat down. I continued, “I’ve been up for awhile, and have my own chores done. After breakfast I’ll take you up to Ed’s place and help get you organized. I was a bit of a prick yesterday. The chores I said you had to do were actually mine to do. I’m being paid to do them until the estate is settled.

“I went up last night after you went to sleep and made sure things were okay. You did pen up the goats, and that was the only thing that had to be done.” 

“Now, what would you like for breakfast? I can make you waffles, pancakes, French toast, eggs and bacon, or if you prefer, I can make you some milk toast. I don’t have chipped beef, but hamburger works just as well, and is quite tasty. There is also oatmeal or cold cereal. Just tell me what you would like.”

Kitty looked like she was trying to decide and I guess I had given her too many choices. Finally, she declared, “I will definitely not have a glass of that cider you served me last night, and that’s for certain. I loved it, but you had better caution me about it again. For now, I’ll have two eggs, one bacon strip, and one slice of toast.”

I turned around and could see her eyes twinkling. “You’re of age. I’ll caution you once about a danger, but you should listen because I won’t tell you again.”

“Fair enough. Potter, I’d like to thank you for giving me a ride up the hill yesterday. I was so tired I almost turned around before you reached me. I was wrong and there is no excuse for saying I wouldn’t be friendly. I want to thank you for the wonderful dinner last night, and I certainly know I should have listened to your warning about how potent the cider was–is.

“I do have one question. Would you have warned me the second time about the horny Billy goat, if I got too close and was in danger?”

“Yes, I certainly would. Think of an animal weighing 120 pounds running at you at forty miles an hour? He, intending to hurt, and with malice in his heart to hit you if he could. It would be a crime if I didn’t give you the second warning. Now about the cider, you should be intelligent enough to know after a warning what unfamiliar liquor would do to you.”

“I was being a smartass. I did love the taste of it, though. I will try some again after I fully recover from last night. I believe I will enjoy it if I take it in smaller amounts.”

I smiled, remembering my first bout with hard cider. Kitty, at least, was where just the two of us knew about it, whereas I had been in a crowd of my friends.

“So, eggs and bacon?”

“Yes, but eggs scrambled, not fried.”

“Wise choice.”

We finished breakfast and Kitty insisted she do the dishes. I was a little concerned for I was a few minutes late in feeding the goats and letting them out to browse. There was the one goat that needed milking. She was at the end of her lactation period, so if I was late it wouldn’t harm her in any way. When I told Kitty she stopped dawdling and hurriedly finished up in the kitchen.

I sat and watched her work, which was a treat for me. I hadn’t had much to do with women for a couple of years. The last one left me suddenly and it hurt. I shied away from finding a new companion. Kitty was interesting, but she didn’t make me feel desperate. I would wait and see what developed. I did know I would enjoy having her as a neighbor up the road.

When we came out to get into my car, I asked, “We have time to walk through the barn to see the rabbits. I have to check them fairly often right at present. I have one doe that is about to have little ones. I have to get her ready when she is near term. She’ll tell me within a few days.”

“Rabbits can’t talk.”

“No, but they start pulling their own fur out to make a nest. I’ve found that when they first start, I have a couple of days, and that’s the time to move them.” We walked inside. Parked on the barn floor was a bright-blue ’50 Chevy pickup.

“That’s yours. Ed had it all fixed up for you when he found out he wasn’t going to make it. He told me if you didn’t show up within a year, it was mine. If you hadn’t come soon, I was going to write you if I could get your address from his attorney. So you must know I was very glad to see you yesterday hiking up the road ahead of me.”

“You didn’t let on you were glad about seeing me.”

“I was as sociable as you were.”

“True. You must be okay because you haven’t done me any harm. You cautioned me about the cider, but I wish you had been a little more emphatic with your warning.”

“Lesson learned. Okay, let’s go up to your place and I’ll show you the routine I’ve been using in caring for the animals. We’ll take a walk in the woods before it gets too warm. You probably should go through the house and see what is in it. Ed never threw anything away. There could be some valuable items hidden under what you see at first. This will give you an idea what you have inherited.”

“Okay, Potter, we have a couple of hours. I’m going to call the attorney who is settling Uncle Ed’s affairs. Tell me, if need be, can I hire you to sort it out?”

“I could. Aren’t you going to be here?”

“I don’t know. I’m thinking about returning to the city after talking to the attorney. Can I stay here with you until I do?”

“Of course you can. Not necessarily for you, but because Ed was such a good friend and mentor to me.”

“You’re making me feel bad.”

“Don’t, Kitty, it’s too late now.”

We did go for a walk, but Kitty wasn’t comfortable, it being so quiet.

I saw to the animals while Kitty went inside the house “Quite a mess isn’t it? I wouldn’t know how to begin.”

“It is a life-time of accumulation, but Ed knew where everything was. He’d talk about something and then dig out what he was talking about. It wouldn’t take him long either.

We returned to my place just before eleven. “Potter, I’m going to call the attorney. If I can get an appointment, will you drive me?”

“Of course.”

When I came out, Kitty said she was to see the lawyer at two that afternoon. She showered and changed. Her dress was rumpled, so I provided a flat iron. When I went into the kitchen to get water for the iron, she had taken off what she was wearing. She didn’t tell me to leave, even though I was being boorish and stayed to watch her iron the dress. She was in her underwear.

I didn’t comment on how she looked. Her shape was about as near perfect as could be. Too bad she wouldn’t hang around for a few days. Maybe she would, but I didn’t hold out much hope.

“Potter, did you enjoy watching me? I wanted to find out if you were boorish or not. It was pretty bold to iron my dress where you could watch me. I think I needed to find out if you are still a bastard and maybe get back a little at you. You might have changed some from yesterday, but I can’t see it entirely.”

“Sorry about that. Kitty, you are beautiful, you know. I had a girlfriend that used to do the same thing to twist me up, so it wasn’t unusual to watch. She didn’t object and neither did you. You could have told me to leave. I’d say we are about even. Tell me, was I pushing the boundaries too far?”

“Some, but we don’t have much time to get ready. I’m buying you lunch in town. Get changed. Don’t you need your shirt ironed?”

I shook my head, no. I put on a short-sleeved shirt and my jeans were good. I saw her looking at me when I went by the mirror, though. I guess that was fair.

I drove Kitty up Putney Road to the Marina restaurant for lunch. We arrived back at Park Place, just at two, where her attorney was located. Kitty asked me to read a magazine while I waited for her.

After an hour the attorney came out and asked a question, “Gary, Miss Tatum, wants me to ask you if you would be willing to sort through everything that her uncle owned. It would pay five dollars above minimum wage and you would have a year to get it done. She is going to put the property on the market as soon as you finish. Also, could you do any small needed repairs and she would pay you the same hourly rate. She noticed a few windows needed attention.”

“I guess I can do that. It’s going to take awhile. There are a lot of piles of clutter to look into.”

“Good, you can contact me about what’s to be disposed of after she goes back to the city.”

“You can tell her I’ll probably get it all done this summer, so it won’t be hanging and she can get it on the market. I’d say I’ll have it all done by September first.”

“I’ll plan on that. I’m supposed to be the one to line up a realtor. You might be available, if you would, when it is time to list the property to show the realtor around.”

“Ed, would like that. I’m doing this more for him than I am for Miss Tatum.”

“Miss Tatum mentioned you felt that way. I’ll write this up as a contract so it is clear. If you come up with any serious changes, I’ll take them to her. Come in tomorrow morning. I’ll have papers for you both to sign. I think she is planning on catching the eleven o’clock train back to Newton. I’ll finish up and then she’ll be out. She said she was staying with you tonight.”

“That’s right. Take your time. I want to finish this article I started to read, anyway.”

It was an hour later when Kitty came out. “I like my lawyer. He’s good and didn’t object to some stipulations I wanted included. This concerns the disposal of the clutter and junk you said you would take care of. 

“That’s fine. I’ve known him for years. He’s my age, married and has one child.”

“He didn’t say. I’m not one to pry into the people I come into contact with.”

“Good plan. I object to sharing my personal life with anyone, too.”

“Potter, can I go to bed early? I’m tired. It seems as if I’ve been on the jump all day.”

“Okay, by me. I guess the animals at your place are still my responsibility aren’t they.”

“Yes. They are some of the reason I didn’t want to deal with Ed’s worldly goods. I like my life-style in the city. No goats for me.”

“Not even horny ones?”

“Don’t kid your self, there are plenty of those in the city.” We had a good laugh over this.

I checked my rabbits. It was very hot in the barn and the rabbits were panting from the heat. I closed the windows and started the air conditioner. Soon they were comfortable again. I then went up to Ed’s place and gathered the eggs. I had over three dozen of them. I fed the goats and sat on the porch. I was thinking about Ed. I sat at ease with the feeling I had treated his niece the same way as he would have handled her. I locked the goats into their pens and headed home.

“You were gone a long time.”

“Yeah, I didn’t want to pen the goats up too early. I’ve got a whole basket of eggs. I’ll sort them and take them into the market when we go tomorrow or the next day. I swap them for bacon, butter, and cereal. When I have a lot of milk from the goats I make cheese. Now I save what little I have, and take it to a young couple who are trying to raise a pig. They’re going to feel awful when they butcher it. It’s become a pet.”

“That’s another reason I don’t want to get involved. If I saw the animal that was going onto my table, I’d become a vegetarian. Of, course stepping in that chicken crap wasn’t much fun either.”

“What do you want for supper?”

“Something light.”

“How about waffles and sweet sausage? The sausage is in the freezer. It’s some I broiled in the oven. I do a whole bunch at a time. I coat them with brown sugar and they really are quite good.”

“I’ll try a waffle and a sausage. Do you serve cider with the meal?”

“Not usually, but I can.”

“No, God, no, not unless you serve it in a thimble!” I laughed.

Kitty ate a good breakfast and went with me to Ed’s when I did chores up at her place. When we got back, she walked into the barn with me. I had to move two pregnant doe rabbits into new cages. She watched me, standing back as far from the animals as possible.

When everything was finished, she handed me an envelope. “Potter – Gary, Uncle Ed intended you to have the blue pickup. I have no use for it. This is the title. You can register it in your name and it’s yours.

“Thank you so much, I did covet it, but not enough to ask for it.”

“That’s all settled then. You have been kind to drive me and I have learned a few things in the last couple of days. I suspect Uncle Ed probably would have treated me much like you have.”

“I was thinking the same thing last night. I resolved to behave myself today. I finally remembered you have lost your relative.”

Kitty ignored this. “I suppose we should get going. I have to sign papers at the law office. I think you have to sign your name for the contract he wrote up about things to get the property ready to sell. I’m very, very, grateful. You must realize I couldn’t survive here.”

“Maybe, but you didn’t give it much of a chance. One thing before we get in the car; would you give me your address? I might want to send you a Christmas card.”

“Good idea, I’ll need your address here too, in case I want to send you one.”

My contract wasn’t ready when we reached the law office. Kitty’s papers were, so she signed and I took her down to the train station. “I feel I should hug you, but that is too forward of me.”

“No it isn’t, come here, Potter. You know, I think I’m going to miss you. I learned some things about you and about my uncle while here. I can say it was an education. A bit twisted, but an education, never-the-less.” It was some hug.

I could see her through the train window when she reached a seat. We both waved as the train began to move.

~~~~~~~

August, 30, 2002

To, Grady Potter,

PO box 1227

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

Mr. Potter:

     The attorney wrote that you did a great job in getting the farm ready to list for sale. The price he suggested I ask, and should get, is much higher than I expected. If it does sell, then that will clean up Uncle Ed’s estate.

Thank you, again.

     Regards, Katherine Tatum.

~~~~~~~

September, 5, 2002

To, Katherine Tatum

PO Box 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Katherine Tatum:

     Kitty, I’m upset with you a little. Somehow I signed the contract for work to be performed before I read what I agreed to. Your lawyer said there wasn’t any way I could break the agreement without bringing suit so I desisted in following my inclinations. You must know I found several valuable treasures while cleaning up the clutter your uncle left with the estate.

     Not only were there several pieces of period furniture, but some coins and a couple of paintings that had value. There were three guns, one a Winchester ’73 rifle that is much sought after, and prized by most gun collectors

     The question remains: Why did you give me title to the ’50 Chevy pickup and to everything else, except the real property? You put a woeful burden on me to decide what to do. Ed would say for me to forget it, so I have.

     My invoice to your lawyer for wages has been paid and I thank you for tending to this item.

     Your faithful servant, Potter

~~~~~~~

December, 20, 2002

To, Grady Potter

PO Box, 227

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

Merry Christmas:

     Potter, I’m sure your invoice for one hour’s work, performed was too low, but you made out the invoice and signed your name so I had the lawyer remit you, $12.50. As far as the clutter I gave you, Ed would have said to forget it. I have and I know some of it had meaning for you so I’m pleased with our association in this matter.

     The realtor has received two offers for the farm and both are viable. One offer is from three young people who are talking about going “Back to the Land.” I guess I will accept their offer. I hope they will be good neighbors for you.

     I’m afraid our short association is coming to an end. On a more personal note, I must tell you, I have met a man I’m very interested in. In Uncle Ed’s day, I suppose you could say we are “Walking out Together.” Of course in our time it is “Going to Bed Together.” Same difference.

     Happy Holidays, Kitty

~~~~~~~

January, 02, 2003

To, Katherine Tatum

PO Box, 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Happy Holidays to you.

     Kitty, I too am sorry our association is coming to an end. I wonder what Ed would say? I still miss him, and if you had known him, you would too. I’m pleased you received your asking price for the property. Land in Brattleboro has increased in value considerably in the last few years. You sold at the right time, and are lucky you don’t have to pay the taxes.

     I too, have found someone I’m considering for a mate. She is a lovely woman. She teaches High School Math, coaches the girl’s team in two sports, and is well-rounded in all respects.” We’ll see what develops?

     Potter

~~~~~~~

December, 20, 2003

To Grady Potter

PO Box 227

Brattleboro. VT, 05301

Potter,–Merry Christmas, again!

     Hi, Grady, I’m now a deliriously happy married woman. I’m also a very eight-and-a-half-month pregnant Mommy to-be. I sent my Xmas cards out before the main event happens. I’m waiting on the arrival of Edward Tatum Johnson. He is going to be a big boy. Are there any children for you on the horizon, or is that a too-personal question? I just wanted you to know there is another Ed Tatum coming along.

Great Holidays to you.

     Kitty Johnson.

~~~~~~~

January, 4, 2004

To Mrs. Katherine Johnson and Family

PO Box 762

Newton, Ma. 02458

Mrs. Johnson: Happy holidays.

     Katherine, My name is Helen Potter and I’m married to Grady. Grady is sitting in a rocking chair rocking our babe, Katherine Tatum Potter. Grady talked about Ed Tatum so much I suggested he use the ‘Tatum’ name as her middle name. Someday I hope to meet you. We hope to have one more baby, but will wait at least two years. I hope you had Baby Johnson without problems. Please let us know when the event happens.

Your friend,

     Helen Potter and Baby Katherine

~~~~~~~

January, 10, 2004

To Grady and Helen Potter

PO Box 227

Brattleboro VT 05301

Helen and Family:

     Potter, Ed Tatum arrived right on time. He is such a beautiful baby. I feel my life is complete and we are so happy. Thank you for being my friend. Baby Ed sends his love.

    The Johnson family.

~~~~~~~

December, 20, 2006

To The Johnson Family

PO, Box, 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Merry Christmas

     Katherine, Happy Holidays. Little Ed must be almost three-years-old now. Baby Kate is as they say, “Tearing up the joint.” Quite precocious, but such a joy. Grady spends every free minute he has with her. I don’t know if she entertains him or he entertains her. They are a pair.

Love to you and yours,

     Helen

~~~~~~~

January, 1, 2007

To Helen Potter, and Family

PO Box 227

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

Happy Holidays:

     Helen, Kate and Potter, I was a little sad during the holidays. My husband had to be on the West Coast with his work. He travels a lot and I don’t see as much of him as I could wish. Your card came and it made me feel so good to know someone remembered me and little Ed. Not your problem. I talk to Little Ed and tell him he is the man of the family. I certainly see more of him than I do of Johnson.

Love to all,

     Kitty

~~~~~~~

January, 7, 2007

To Katherine Johnson, and Ed

Po, Box, 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Katherine:

     Your husband will soon wake up to the fact he has a treasure in you, but I do feel your pain. I, myself, am having some problems and do have to go for treatments. Grady and I have put off having another baby until these are completed. Your problems and mine are just part of living this life – That’s according to Grady.

     Grady just shook his head. “No, it’s according to Ed.” Somehow, I knew he would say that. I hear it enough.

     Love, Helen

~~~~~~~

May, 1, 2007

To Katherine Johnson

PO Box, 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Kitty,

      This is to inform you that the farm buildings on the former Ed Tatum property are no more. The young people who bought the property, created a lab for making chemical compounds. One person died in the explosion and the other two have serious burns. I was never close to them because they weren't that friendly.

     Helen has finished her treatment. Her prognosis is good, but she is weak. Kate was good through it all.

     Catch you at Christmas,

Potter

~~~~~~~

December, 5, 2007

To Katherine Johnson

PO Box 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Kitty:  

     Helen passed away two days ago on the 3rd. She was fine through the summer until the first week of September. She took to bed and hospice made sure she was comfortable. I’m bearing up as well as I can. Kate knows she won’t see her mother again. That is what hurts me the most. Nothing like this has happened in my family before.

With tears in my eyes,

Potter

~~~~~~~

December, 10, 2007

To Grady Potter

PO Box, 227

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

Potter:

     I’m so sorry for your loss. From reading Helen’s cards and notes, I knew how much she loved you. I know how devastated you must feel. I wish I could hug little Kate. Condolences, without saying, go to both of you.

     I have news of my own for you and will inform you later sometime in the early New Year.

     Potter, love to both you and to Kate,

Kitty

~~~~~~~

December, 21, 2007

To Katherine Johnson and Family

PO Box 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Kitty:

     I received many cards from well wishers, but yours meant the most to me. Helen often said how she wanted to meet you. She declared she felt you were her most solid friend even though you hadn’t met.

     I hope the news you hinted at is something wonderful. That is just from the fact you are my friend and I want you to be happy. This note will serve as a Christmas card. I’m sending a note to the people closest to me, and you certainly are one.

     I hope your husband doesn’t take umbrage at our correspondence. It can’t be helped in this instance.

     Potter.

~~~~~~~

January, 27, 2008

To Grady Potter

Po Box 227

Brattleboro, VT, 05301

Potter:

     I’m hoping by this time you have your feet back on solid ground again. That’s what Uncle Ed Tatum would tell you to do. Use the pain of your loss to make you stronger.

     You know sometimes over the years, I have addressed you as Potter, which you said you prefer, and at other times as, Grady. I prefer Potter.

     I have to say, you have shared only few facts of your life, except about Helen. I don’t know what you do for work. I’ve given you some thought. I can’t believe you make a living raising rabbits. You must supplement your income in some other way.

     I guess this is the time for me to tell you about my sorry life as well. I went to college and became a paralegal. Johnson, my ex-husband, was a client of our firm’s attorneys. My marriage became a sham shortly after Ed, my son was born. I discovered that Johnson couldn’t keep his Johnson to home.

     I received the final divorce decree a few days before you informed me that Helen had passed away. I was going to write and tell Helen of my new status when your letter came. I needed a friend at the time and still do, so that is why I’m sharing this with you. So, Potter, shall we continue sharing a few facts occasionally? If we do, it is your turn.

     Ed goes to daycare now while I work. He hates it. How is Kate taken care of, or is she just with you on the farm?

Love,

     Kitty and Ed Tatum

~~~~~~~

February, 3, 2008

To Katherine Tatum Johnson and Ed

PO Box 762

Newton, Ma, 02458

Hi Kitty:

     I take it your hint of news was the fact that you were going through a divorce. I also gather that it was inevitable. I’m sad when a marriage comes to a point that divorce is the only option. I guess my loss of Helen and the divorce of your husband, gives us both something to move on from.

     Kitty, when you arrived that time in June many years ago, I could see that you didn’t intend to stay. I was put out that you felt you couldn’t deal with living in rural Vermont. If the interest wasn’t there, then why go further and share facts of my life with you.

     The real facts of my life are that I am a college professor and have a position here in town. I own a home in the West Village of Brattleboro. The farm on Tatum Road is where my parents have always lived and I did grow up there. They were off to Hawaii on vacation at the time you were here in 2002. I was doing chores for them and for the Ed Tatum estate.

     Ed Tatum really was my mentor. He taught me how to hunt and I did use the same Chevy pickup to pass the test for my driving license. Ed, himself, was a professor in his early years and urged me to follow the same path. We would talk for hours when we had the chance.

     About daycare for Kate; she has been staying with my sister, Beth, who lives on the same street as I do. Of course Kate will be going to kindergarten next year and Sis will continue to fill in. Very convenient for me, and wonderful for Kate. Keep in touch.

Love from both of us,

     Potter and Kate

~~~~~~~

March, 3, 2008

Note to Potter

Hey, Potter:

     I think I’m beginning to understand you a little – especially your former relationship with my uncle. Someday we should meet and explore it more fully. Are there anymore pertinent facts, you have neglected to share with me?

     I must say, Kate is so fortunate to have family to stay with while not in school. Day cares are great, but it is better to have a relative fulfill that need. On a different note, I have been explaining to Ed that someplace in the State of Vermont, he has a road with his name on the street sign. He hasn’t been able to get the concept correct yet, but tells everybody he is famous. Go figure.

     Oh, I petitioned the court to have the name, “Johnson,” removed from mine. That was in the final decree. I can’t do much about Ed’s name and wouldn’t want to anyway. Johnson paid enough to settle the divorce and he should have something for his money. Don’t think I asked for what I received, because I just took what was offered. Why am I talking about this anyway?

     Love, Kitty Tatum

~~~~~~~

April, 7, 2008

Note to Kitty

Kitty:

     The facts brought out and accepted in the Fire Marshal’s and Police reports concerning the explosion at the former Ed Tatum property have been released. They state that the direct cause of the incident came while inhabitants were compounding certain chemicals to make Meth. Ed Tatum butted in, creating havoc and generating a gas which almost immediately exploded, causing the death of one 23-year-old female. Severe injuries to two other individuals resulted in burns to both their torsos.

     So now you know. Just facts you might be interested in.

Love, Potter

~~~~~~~

April, 15, 2008

Note to Potter

Potter:

     Damn you, you don’t change a bit. I’d strangle you right this minute if I could get my hands on you. You’re so upsetting.

     I’ve read your last note over and over and it doesn’t make any sense. Oh, I’m sure you quoted the report as written, but you have left out something, coming either before or after the report. In other words you took it out of context.”

Kitty.

     Oh, Ed, sends his love

   

~~~~~~~

May, 3, 2008

Note to Kitty

Kitty:

     The clues are all there, if you would remember some of the discussion we had back in 2002 during the 48 hours we spent together. I’ll admit I was being vague, but knew it would get your attention. You have always appeared to me as extremely intelligent.

     Remember, I warned you about the Billy goat? The new owners, when they bought the property, learned that goats had been raised there. They bought a Billy, naming him Ed Tatum, and they proceeded to torment and tease him. They taught him to butt things, (as if a goat needed teaching.) They had a small mattress they would hold up and have him butt it. I warned them twice, that it might bring about dire consequences.

     Over time Ed got meaner and meaner. The people finally had to keep him penned up all the time. In his brain he was going to get even. He would butt the pen walls for hours on end.

     The day of the incident, Ed Tatum was finally able to break out of his pen. The people were using the mattress that day to seal off the opening into the kitchen because the door didn’t quite shut all the way. Ed charged the mattress, butting it. There was nothing really holding it and he ended up in the kitchen, doing what he did best. Ed’s remains were there to tell the story to the investigators, reinforced by details from one of the survivors.

Kate sends, love,

     Potter

~~~~~~~

May, 12, 2008

Note to Potter

Potter:

     You’re so funny! I say funny, but exasperating! Tell me, what has happened to the property now? If it ever comes onto the market, I think I have the where-with-all to purchase it. I could build a camp to vacation there or something. After all I do have a son named Ed Tatum and he would be right at home on Tatum road.

     Potter, will you be in town and free to entertain during the middle of June? I have vacation for a couple of weeks and I might plan on coming up to see my ancestor’s old place. It must look terrible now with the buildings in ruins, that is, if it hasn’t been cleaned up.

Love,

     Kitty and Ed

~~~~~~~

May, 17, 2008

Note to Kitty

Kitty:

     Concerning the Ed Tatum property, I purchased it from the bank after the title was cleared and resolved. Kate, my daughter also carries the name Tatum and I thought this was a property that would have meaning when she got older. You and Ed are also named Tatum. I could listen to suggestions where the property could have meaning for all of us.

     Classes are out for the summer and I am free to entertain you on your vacation. It will be an anniversary, of sorts, and that has meaning, I think. You know, we have been writing back and forth for a long time, and I do think we should end this form of communication. Talking, either on the phone or by using a computer would transport us into the modern world. Of course, a face to face would be my preferred way to discuss things. Your thoughts?

Much Love,

     Potter and Kate.

~~~~~~~

May, 23, 2008

Note to Potter

Potter:    

     This will be my last note to you. I will expect one more from you, answering one question. I do drive a car now. If possible, I would like, when I first arrive in the area, to drive up Tatum road to the farm. This is mostly for my son, Ed, but for me as well. Looking at my calendar, I would be coming along about ten on the morning of June, 17th. That date also has meaning for me. This trip, I’m hoping, will be me who is picking up a passenger.

Love from both of us,

     Kitty and Ed

~~~~~~~

May, 29, 2008

Final Note to Kitty

Kitty:

     I will be walking on Tatum Road along about ten on that date you mentioned.

Love,

     Potter

~~~~~~~

June, 17, 2008

Tatum Road

“Kate, it is almost the time, and I’m sure the lady won’t be late. I know it is hot and dusty, but the lady will know it is, too. Years ago, she was walking on this same road and I picked her up. Listen for a car and you will hear it before we see it.”

“I see it now, Daddy. It has red and white plates on it. Is this the car we are waiting for?”

“I believe it is, sweetheart. See, the car is slowing down. Yes, I would say this is the car that will take us up to Grammy’s house.”

Kate and I waited for the car to stop. Young Ed was sitting in the back seat. I opened the rear door. “Kate, the boy’s name is Ed Tatum. Jump in and say, hi.”

“Okay. Daddy, hurry up, I know you have some lemonade if the fridge. I’m thirsty.”

Kate turned her attention to Ed, sitting on the far side of the seat. “Ed, do you like lemonade?”

“I guess, if it isn’t sour.”

Kate set Ed straight. “My Daddy doesn’t make sour lemonade. He puts sugar in it. You’ll love it. I just know you will.”

I slipped into the front seat. “Hi Kitty, you’re looking lovely just like you did on this day six years ago.”

Kitty laughed. “How come you didn’t say that to me, back them?”

I started to answer, “Because you said you ...”

“Stop – because I said I wasn’t going to be friendly, didn’t I. Today I’m going to be the friendliest person you ever did meet. So friendly, I’m going to kiss you when we get up to the farm.”

We did kiss when we got out of the car. The hug may have been held a bit long. Kate and Ed watched us kiss and Kate exclaimed, “That’s the way Daddy used to kiss my mommy.”

Ed, sadly commented, “I haven’t seen my mommy kiss anyone for a long time. I don’t remember her kissing my dad. I don’t see him anymore.” 

Kate reached and took Ed’s hand. “I don’t see my mom anymore either. She died and went to heaven.”

“I don’t know what happened to my dad. He just went away.”

“Come on, Ed, I’ll get us some lemonade.” The two kids went running into the house.

Potter steered Kitty onto the porch where they could sit. “Well, Kitty, what do you think? Are the kids going to get along together?”

“I would say they would. Ed doesn’t have many close friends. He’ll get along in kindergarten, okay, but doesn’t do so well in day care. Both kids are starting this fall aren’t they?”

“Kate is. So Kitty, you gave up your vacation to come and visit an old friend?”

“Potter, it may be more than just a visit. I really don’t have any ties to Newton any more. I’ve never gotten close to anyone or have many friends. Helen was the closest. You didn’t know it, but we did talk on the phone sometimes. We made a pact not to talk about our husbands. I never told her when my husband was giving me trouble and it was a surprise to me when you told me Helen passed away.

“What did you talk about if it wasn’t personal?”

“Oh, you know; what we watched on television, clothes and shopping. What we made for dinner and stuff like that. Of course Ed and Kate were always talked about. Her love for you did creep into our conversation at times. She didn’t tell you we talked?”

“No, but I’m not surprised. I’m glad you were friends, though. It is too bad she didn’t share with you her problems because she could have given you some support during your troubles at the same time.”

“Potter, she was aware that I was fond of you. Especially when my troubles began, we talked one time. She laughed because I always called you Potter and not Grady and you called me Kitty and not Katherine. It was like two people who had a favorite song back in their youth. You hold some sweet little thing in your heart. That’s what I think, anyway. It has become a little more for me since our mates are both gone.”

“Would you like it to continue?”

“Very much so. Helen would be pleased, I know she would. And then there is my Uncle Ed. It was kept from you, but he left a letter for me that detailed some wishes that I could keep, or not. Nothing binding, you understand, but he did want everything in and around his farm to come to you. My attorney and I worked it out so you could have it. What happened to everything, anyway?”

“I have everything that was of value in my home, downtown. Mom knew what a lot of the antique things were and what they were used for. I’ve kind of kept the things in one room of the house as a mini-museum to remember Ed by. I never considered owning any of the items until after I had them cleaned up. I have the blue pickup and that has the most meaning for me to remember Ed by. I intend to give you everything else. It is your heritage. You’ll see when we go into town. I must tell you also, you can’t believe how happy it made me to have you name your son Ed Tatum.

“Potter where are your parents? Are they in Hawaii?”

“No, they’ll be home in a couple of days. They want to meet you and Ed. Mom thinks I’m a little crazy. She knows we were only together for 48 hours six years ago. She wonders why I am so excited about you coming here to visit, today.”

“Potter, why are you so excited?”

“Maybe, I have a dream of it becoming more than just a visit.”

“Maybe I have the same dream. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. You said you were a college professor. Where do you teach?”

“In a college, down town. I teach mostly classes in developing trends in management and organization skills. It sounds pretty dry, but I enjoy it. Just say for instance, if we became a couple, would you consider leaving Newton and finding a job here?”

“Potter, I was in for an interview with a firm here in town, yesterday. I stayed in a motel last night. I do have some skills in the legal field that are transferable. The firm where I had the interview is meeting Thursday, and the partners will have an answer for me this Friday. As far as being able to take the job immediately, I’m using these two weeks of vacation for a notice. I’m essentially now unemployed.”

“Wow, this calls for a hug and a kiss.” 

“My thought, exactly.”

The kids came out. “Daddy, can we go up to the new house now? I want to show Ed what you are building.”

“Kate, I’m talking to the Ed’s mom.”

“I know and you are kissing her, too. I mean can me and Ed walk up?”

“Sure, go ahead. Don’t do anything I’ve warned you about.”

“We won’t. Ed, I get spanked, if I do something that my Daddy says I shouldn’t.” The kids took off up the road.

“Potter I’m surprised you would spank Kate?”

“She is just repeating a threat. I’ve never had to because she minds very well.”

“You let Kate go up there alone?”

“They won’t be alone that long, we’ll follow. If I’m there working at the site, my mother sends Kate up from here by herself. It is safe enough.”

The kids were soon out of sight I took Kitty’s hand and we walked slowly along. “Kitty, if it isn’t too personal, would you tell me of your financial situation? Just to let you know, I’m pretty well set, as long as I keep working. I’m young at thirty-five. I have a good job and I do have some savings. I’m also well on the way to building a good retirement.” 

“Why are you telling me this? It isn’t necessary.”

“It is just that I want you to know. I’m hoping you will become interested in becoming more than a friend to me. I can, and will, support you to the best of my ability. I’m not a man who only raises rabbits. Actually the bunnies are my Dad’s. You have handed me a lot of things of value, and that wasn’t necessary, either. When you left six years ago I didn’t let on that I was working and could have supported you if we had come together at that time. I felt it was a mistake later not to make you aware of the fact.”

“Potter, if we had come together as a couple, I would have contributed to give us a life. I married, thinking my husband and I were the perfect couple, but we never were partners. I may have a net worth larger than what you have, but that isn’t the part that is important in a marriage. It is the person, and from what little we have associated, there is no doubt in my mind that we could be happy together.”

*********

We came to where Kitty could view the property that she had previously inherited, and then sold. There was a new, good-sized cabin that looked almost finished. I informed her, there was still the interior to do yet.

The fields had been mowed and I kept the grounds around the construction neat and orderly. “This, what you see, is my fair weather home. I plan on living here May through October of each and every year. The difficult months I plan to live in the village. I will open it up for the winter holidays and sit on the couch in front of the fireplace and remember Ed Tatum.”

“Will it be finished by Christmas?”

“Certainly, maybe even for Thanksgiving. That would be most appropriate, wouldn’t it? Kitty, I want to say something and I don’t want you to take it in the wrong way. Do you realize that we haven’t been together for a total of 50 hours as of right now? By all standards we shouldn’t be thinking of beginning a relationship.”

“Sorry to interrupt, Potter, but are you thinking to start a relationship with me?”

“I am. I know it is really too soon after losing Helen, but I want to get to know you. I’m asking you to become a guest of mine in my home. You could live someplace else and we date, but you don’t know a person until you live in close proximity to them. Many marriages don’t start with what I believe we have. We both have a child. They are so close together in age, they could be considered twins. Who knows, if we don’t become a life-time couple, the kids might turn out to be life-long friends in their own right? I just have a feeling that one, two or all four of us would benefit.”

“I’ll think about this and give you my answer, soon, very soon. I was married, divorced, and I might not want to jump into another relationship right off.”

“There is that, but I have thought about you a lot. We sent notes back and forth for years. You always addressed me by Potter. It became a warm greeting to me. When you mentioned your husband, Johnson, there wasn’t any warm inflection in your words that I could detect at all.”

Kitty drew away by stepping back. “Potter, are you a wizard? I did use your last name a lot, but that was because you asked me to. That’s normal. Why would you think it different if I used Johnson’s last name? It was my name too. His name was Rick. I was blinded by how rich he was. I shouldn’t have, because I was doing well on my own. It wasn’t long before he found someone else as rich as he was. He began spending time with her.

“One day after he had been away, he was home and acting nervous. It was about eight that evening when the doorbell chimed. It was the new woman he wanted to leave me for. We sat down and she told me about their situation and how much they loved each other. I was angry and they could see I was. The words tumbled from their mouths with an offer of what they would do for Ed and me if I would release Rick. I worked in the law office and knew how difficult it is for a single mother to bring up a child on her own.

“I told them to put it in writing and I would have the offer looked at by my attorney. I signed off on my marriage the next afternoon. Ed has a good education fund started and I am able to live comfortably even if I don’t find someone. But I do want to find someone who will love me and who has my trust. Ed’s father has been to see him only once since the divorce. That’s a lot of why I’m here today. I’m moving here and I know Ed and Kate will be friends, even if you and I don’t make a go of a relationship.”

Kitty kept looking at me. Finally she said, “Okay, I wasn’t with  Rick for long, but I thought I kept my ill feelings for him out of my notes to you.”

“Kitty, I just extended an invitation to you for living in my house as a guest. All this other stuff can be resolved sometime in the future.”

“Dam, Potter, I came up here to live with you if you would let me. I was just hesitant to ask because I know how much you loved Helen. My son needs a father and Kate needs a mother. So, we’ll say you’ve invited me, and I’m accepting. We’ll work on the relationship part of this as we get to know each other.”

She was staring at the house, switching her thoughts to the kids. “It’s awful quiet in the house, I wonder what those kids of ours are up to. Is it okay for me to tell Ed we are moving into your house?”

“We’ll tell Ed and Kate together. That would be a good way to begin. This was what I was hoping for. Let’s get the kids and drive down to see your new home. We’ll have lunch downtown. Then we’ll come back and I’ll show you what I’m building here. I can make changes if there is something you don’t like.”

“Potter, how come the door wasn’t locked. The kids went right in and didn’t lock it when they came out.”

“I gave up locking it. One of the first things I did was hang the door after I got the walls up. The back door wasn’t here yet, and anyone could have walked right in, but they were vandals in the area and smashed the door anyway. I just don’t lock it and won’t until I have the whole house buttoned up. Doors are expensive. Then I’ll install ADT and have cameras positioned.”

Kitty shook her head and I shouted for Kate and Ed. “Hey Ed, six years ago I offered your mother some apple juice. Would you like some?”

“Potter, don’t you dare, unless it is sweet from the store.”

“I have both. This calls for a toast. Kitty, one thimble full, or more of the kind you liked so well?”

Kitty didn’t answer my question, but went on to a different subject “Potter, I thought about that night a lot, mostly after I was divorced. Getting drunk and having someone put you to bed was humiliating. It also made me angry that you didn’t stop me from drinking, knowing what it would do to me. But then you didn’t take advantage of me either. You made me a fine breakfast and did my chores and drove me to the attorney’s and to the bus depot when I left.”

“Kitty, I was a little red-faced, myself, of how I had treated you as a stranger. I also kept you in my mind of how I would rectify my boorishness, given the chance. I explained all of this to Helen before we were married. She wasn’t one to pass judgment on a person and didn’t have much to say about it.”

“Potter, I never indicated to Helen that I was having trouble in my marriage. She never said that she was sick either, but we did talk often about you. Thinking back, she must have picked up on the fact that I wasn’t happy. I have realized since, and during the few months before her death, she was telling me what a wonderful husband you were. She may have sensed my unhappiness, and knew that she was dying. Could she have been giving me a path to happiness, if and when I ever needed one?”

“We’ll never know for sure. I do know she was thrilled when a note came from you. I was puzzled at times because she did say things about you that were never in your notes. When you just told me you had talked on the phone, this was another little mystery explained.”

We both were silent thinking about the first time we met, and about Helen. “What’s Ed’s favorite fast food?”

“Kentucky Fried Chicken.”

“That’s Kate’s too. Shall we go get some and eat in the home where you will be living, I hope for the rest of your life? It is a three bedroom. If you don’t want to sleep in my room, Kate can sleep with me. She has had to on occasion when I have had friends stay over.”

“Any young and nubile college students?”

“No, I’m not saying I haven’t been out on a date and that I haven’t been invited into some woman’s bed, but it is a rarity. Thoughts of Helen often intruded. Am I rushing you?”

“No, but we should talk some first and if we come to agreement that this is what we both desire. I’m willing to let it happen. I feel thoughts of Helen may be with us both, and to me that is a good thing.”

We went up Putney road to KFC and ordered our food. Ed and Kate played and were silly in the back seat. Returning to my home in West Brattleboro, I set out plates and we had our feast.

Kate asked if she could take Ed down to meet her aunt. “Call her, and if she says yes, you can go. Make sure she knows you will have Ed with you.”

“I will, Daddy.”

Kate called and the two kids rushed out the door. Kitty was horrified that Kate was going to run down the street without an adult with her. I took Kitty by the hand and we watched the two kids on the side walk waiting for something. Ten minutes they waited, then they took off running.”

“What was that all about?”

“Beth comes out of her house and comes around the corner so Kate can see her. Kate has to wait until she can see her aunt before running down the street. Another year she won’t have to wait, but she will have to call Beth first. We have never had any incidences on this street, but it is a level of safety I insist on. You should explain this to Ed when they get back.”

“Along with a warning, I’ll bet?”

“Yes, that too. Come I want to show you some of the things I saved from your Uncle Ed Tatum’s house.” Do you cook?”

“Some. It is difficult cooking for one. Why?”

“Have you ever heard of the Fanny Farmer Cookbook? There is one here that was published in 1896. My mom has one published in 1922. They had some ads of different kitchen tools and equipment in her edition on the back pages. Just about every one of these implements, I found in Ed’s kitchen. I put them all together. Mom can tell you all about how they were used.”

I opened the door to what had been the master bedroom. Our eyes went immediately to a black and white picture facing hanging on the far wall. It was one I had found of Ed when he was about fifty years old. The subject was of a 220 pound, twelve point, white tailed deer and Ed. I had a photography shop blow it up and frame it. “Ed said he got that deer down in Vernon, hunting while with some friends. There are a lot of photos of deer he shot over the years. I have a box full of them.”

“Oh, there is picture of you and Ed. Did you shoot that one? You look awful young to be hunting.”

“I was twelve at the time and that was my first deer. It was a six pointer. Ed taught me everything I knew about hunting. I’m looking forward to teaching the kids.”

“You mean you are going to let Kate hunt?”

“Why not? My mom hunts. I think she has bagged three in her lifetime.” We poked around in the room. There were tools of every sort. The room held a few pieces of fine furniture. There was a massive pine cupboard that held the unusual canning jars I had removed from Ed’s cellar.

“It’s not perfect, one corner of the base has a six inch rotted spot where the dampness got to it. The doors were paneled, I suspect made by hand and I know some farmer had to have built this for his wife. It will hold over 100 quart jars of vegetables and fruit to feed the family over the winter. Meat used to be canned in jars the same as garden crops. In the corner there is a small pie safe of punched copper under those beautiful quilts. Ed told me that his Pa bought both the safe and the cupboard at a farm auction for three dollars back in 1931.

“That would be a distant relative of yours. You can maybe find out which one it was. I’ve put all the papers I found that might have something concerning your family into the desk. The desk is of walnut and was made in Pennsylvania. I had it appraised and it was done by a well-known cabinet maker.”

“Potter, why have you done all of this?”

“Ed was my friend and I considered him almost family. Too much history at the farm to be discarded or forgotten. Helen read all of these papers and we discussed them sometimes. She said they belonged with you even though you gave them to me. I was looking forward to seeing you at least one more time in my life.”

“And here I am.”

“Yes, here you are. Kitty, God, I want to kiss you.” Kitty didn’t say anything, just coming into my arms.

Kitty clung to me. She kissed me hard and then pushed me away enough so she could look me into my eyes. “Potter, you haven’t shown me where I will be sleeping tonight. Before you do, would you call your sister and tell her we’ll be down in a couple of hours so I can meet her. Maybe she will keep the kids until we get there.”

“I love you, and I love the way you think.”

The End