Page 29 of Master of Paradise
When Nicholas went into Charleston after theplanting season was over, he made the acquaintance of a captain inthe American Merchant Marine. Their speedy clipper ships dominatedthe seas, carrying the cream of the world's commerce. Through thisconnection, he met both captains and owners of vessels whose traderoute was Charleston--Nassau--Liverpool. He became friendly withRafe Collins who owned three clippers and was having another onebuilt for him in England.
When Nick visited Maggie, he spoke of Rafe."We became fast friends almost from the moment we met. Werecognized that we shared similar qualities."
"Personal magnetism?" she teased lightly,sitting up in bed. She was always pleased that Nicholas didn't mindconversing after they'd made love.
"A sense of humor. Rafe is a product of anexplosive mixed marriage. His mother was Spanish and his fatherIrish. He's hot-tempered, but as quick to cool down as he is toflare up."
"Does he have the impossibly handsome looksof both nationalities?"
"Ah yes. He's a devil with the ladies. Theycan't resist his sooty black lashes and the blue shadow that covershis chin no matter how often he shaves."
"A good friend with ships will certainly bean asset for you."
Nicholas agreed. "I've contracted with Rafefor this year's cotton crop, along with the money left from lastyear's crop, for a half-interest in two of his vessels. The minutethe sails are finished being sewn on the new ship, we'll load itwith a cargo of furniture from the finest English craftsmen."
"There is a huge demand for Sheraton andChippendale desks, dining furniture, wine tables, and hall stands.Southern ladies are partial to pieces made from mahogany, cherry,or rosewood."
"I've promised myself that when we harvestnext year's cotton, I'll sail with it so I can have thesatisfaction of selling my own bales to the merchants inLiverpool."
"You have big plans, Nick. I hope they cometo fruition. A cargo of fine silks, crystal, and wines would bringa fortune in Charleston."
At last the house on Paradise Hill was begun,and Nicholas worked night and day to accomplish his dreams.
Summer brought the gossips a feast ofdelicious tidbits to pass around and digest because of three eventsconcerning the Jacksons.
Brandon was sent home from his militarycollege in Virginia, and it almost wrecked the plans that had beenunderway for weeks for Jennifer Joy's eighteenth birthdayparty.
Before he went home, Brandon stopped atParadise to unload his conscience on Nick and recruit him an anally. He smoothed his long blonde mustache nervously. "The thing isNick, there's not a damned bit of use my giving Father the lie forhe can always tell. Besides, there's not many things you get sentdown for. Stealing, cheating on examinations, and having a femalein your bed. Well hell, I couldn't hold my head up in the county iffolks thought I stole or cheated. The place thrives on gossip."
Nicholas was amused. "Isn't it a bit ironic?You got sent up there for having a female in your bed."
"See what I mean about gossip? Every familyknows every iota of business of every other family hereabouts. It'sthe slaves' grapevine you know. Can't keep their tongues from whitefolks' affairs. Brandon missed the double entendre of his ownwords. His body servant, Jim, who had been at school with him,stood by grinning.
"Seems to me it's a fool thing to get sentdown over. Couldn't you talk your way out of it with yourcommanding officer?"
"Not very well. It was his daughter, I'mafraid."
Nick's eyebrows rose. "Well, I've alwaysfound the best way is to face up to trouble. Get it over with. Likegrasping a thistle, if you're firm it doesn't hurt, but if you goat it gingerly, it will prick hell out of you. Tell your fatherprivately. There's big doings tonight-- it's Jenny's birthdayparty."
"God Almighty, I clean forgot. That willdivert attention from me. Would you consider going early, then Ican arrive with you?" he asked anxiously.
Nick nodded. "If Bernard plays hellfire, I'llplead your case."
Brandon turned to Jim. "Go on home. No needto wait for me, I'll be along with Nicholas."
"That's like sending your calling card."
Brandon grinned. "True. If Jim shows up, theyknow I can't be far behind. Take the edge off the shock."
When the two friends arrived in the lateafternoon, Brandon saw he had made a tactical error. His Father hadbeen forewarned. He was all prepared and awaiting him. The houseservants rolled their eyes at him, proving their knowledge, butNicholas realized the ladies had no idea.
"Why Nicholas Peacock, whatever are you doin'here? My heavens, it can't be time for my guests to arrive,"Jennifer said panic stricken.
"All is well. I came early to see if I couldbe of help."
"There must be a million things to do. AskCharles. Where's Mother?" She fluttered about helplessly.
"I brought you this, Jennifer." Nick handedher a bolt of finest damask linen. "It's for your hope chest. I hadCaptain Collins bring it on his last voyage."
