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    A Different Time

    by Cathy


    Section I, Next Section

    Chapter One

    She had looked forward to this vacation for a long time. London had suddenly seemed oppressive...too many people, too much traffic, too much noise. She wanted to get away to...nothing. She wanted no noise, no traffic and as few people as possible. So far she had what she wanted. The train ride had been smooth and as they travelled north, more and more people disembarked. At her stop, few people were left and most of those ended up on the platform with her.

    It was a short walk to the bed and breakfast she had selected. Her bags were carried up by the owner, and now she could unpack and relax. Two weeks here would do her no end of good, she decided. Perusing the leaflets she had picked up from the rack downstairs, she found one quite intriguing. It was a tour of a large estate only recently opened to the public. This attracted her, as it had not been trod through by any tourists. The feeling of its history would still be within the old walls. And there is always the possibility of restless spirits, she grinned.

    The next morning, Catrin savoured the full breakfast served her while reading the paper. Traffic accident...Tube closings...Boy! Am I glad I'm here!!! She set the paper aside, determined to not read another for the duration of her trip. Her eye fell on the brochure for the estate. It had been handed down in the same family since given to them by Henry VIII. It definitely made for interesting interior and architectural possibilities. She went upstairs to grab her camera and jacket, then picked up her umbrella as an afterthought. We are, after all, in England.

    When she got to the coach stop, there were several dozen people already there. A few inquiries and she knew most of them were headed to her same destination. She sighed, Well, maybe it will be large enough to forget they are there. Yes, a reclusive thought, but what was her aim on this trip anyway? Her curiosity about the estate was too much though, and she boarded the coach along with them.

    She was seated between a middle-aged man and a one a few years younger. They seemed to have some knowledge of one another, but did not carry on a conversation. The younger man read a book, which gave Catrin the impression he did not want any interruption. The older man made small talk for a short time, then his head lolled against the glass and he began snoring. Oh, lovely, she mused. I could have heard that through my wall in London.

    She glanced the other direction to see the book that so engrossed her other seatmate. He had closed it and was watching the countryside go by. His book was about English country life in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, a subject that very much intrigued her. The man on her other side snorted and woke up as the coach jerked to a stop.

    There was a woman waiting at the estate gate. The coach dropped off those passengers for the tour and chugged on up the road to the next town. Yes, the woman was a tour guide. It seemed she was a Blue Badge Guide and knew much about the area history as well.

    The guide collected her fee for the tour which included a box lunch, to everyone's surprise. They were informed that the coach would not make its way back until nearly teatime. This had not been made clear in the brochure. Catrin fumed for a moment, then decide to give it a go. I would only be stuck outside waiting, and it would probably begin to rain. She was most glad her large breakfast would tide her through and shoved the lunch into her bag.

    The gate creaked heavily on its hinges as everyone walked through. They walked up the long drive and a few sprinkles greeted them. One of the others had a golf umbrella and held it high, managing to protect several of them from the weather. Catrin replaced hers back into her bag.

    The group decided to see the interior first, due to inclement weather. There was an anteroom where they deposited their coats and umbrellas so to better enjoy the tour. As she entered, Catrin felt decades of history around her.

    Over several hours, they made their way through the house. It was not a large group, so the tour guide had invited questions about anything they passed. The library had been most intriguing with its old maps and globes. Catrin loved to see how historical intellectuals viewed the world.

    The gallery was in a long hallway with a grand staircase on one end. A few doors led from the hallway, but otherwise it seemed to end abruptly. The man with the book was quite intrigued by one particular painting. As she made her way closer to it, Catrin had the feeling of history all around her again, but this time it was combined with a sense that she was needed somewhere. She finally arrived next to her former seatmate and was as absorbed by the painting as he. It was a portrait of several generations of a family, four adults, two that appeared to be grandparents and four children.

    Suddenly she knew where she needed to go. She walked a few steps toward an empty panel in the wall and pushed slightly at it. It gave way and opened into a dark hallway. Turning, she took the hand of the man and they stepped through. He was not hesitant at all, in fact his hand in hers encouraged her strangely. They had barely exchanged words and now they trespassing, for that is what they were doing, into an ancient passage to face who knew what.

    They made a sharp turn to the left and suddenly were confronted by a flight of stairs. Going up, the next door opened into what had been a magnificent suite of rooms. All the furniture was covered with sheets and dust. There was a sitting room, dressing rooms, a room that could only be used for bathing and finally a bedroom with a beautifully carved bed.


    "See? I told you they were perfect!" A satisfied Eloise said to her husband. "And you said it would never happen. That we would not be able to find a couple to help us."

    "We still do not know if they can help. So far, all we have done is separate them from their world. How do you plan to get the message across to them?" Daniel answered.

    Eloise frowned. "Well, I have not figured that out just yet. But it will be much easier with them in our time. Anytime we tried to contact people, they just said the house was ‘settling'," she pouted. "Imagine that! We are trying to save lives and they thought..." she stopped, too upset to continue.

    "Now, now," Daniel tenderly brushed the tears from her face. "Everything will be fine. These people will be able to help us. I am certain." He nodded his head to add emphasis to his statement, but he did have his doubts.


    The thought of where they were and where they should have been occurred to both at the same time. They hurried back through the upper door only to find the lower door locked. As he looked at his watch, Hamish said, "It is past tea time, they must have gone." They walked back into the sitting room. He stopped suddenly. "We have not been introduced, have we. I'm Hamish Evringham."

    "Catrin Hargreaves," they shook hands. At least he doesn't have mushy hands. At least he uses the right amount of firmness....well that is a ridiculous thought. Suddenly hungry, Catrin was glad she had stashed the box lunch in her bag. Of course she would share. They made short work of the food and decided to explore again, this time removing the dust sheets as they went. Soon though, they lost the last of the day. Hamish located a candle and fortuitously had some matches from the pub in town. She was already chilled without her lined jacket. But would a fire draw attention to their predicament?

    Now came the decision about sleeping arrangements. The settee was too short for Hamish and he would not hear of Catrin sleeping on its hard surface. Simultaneously, they glanced at the bed, then away. A flush of heat crept up her face, she was glad the lack of light hid her embarrassment.

    But Hamish had noticed and bit his lip to hide the smile that threatened to appear. He found a cover in the chest at the foot of the bed. "Here, you can sleep under the bed clothes and I can sleep on top using this. And you have no fear of being....molested."

    Catrin had not realised her exhaustion until she lay on the bed. She flopped on her stomach as was her custom. The mattress moved when Hamish sat on the bed and there was much motion as he arranged the cover.

    "Do you mind if I read for a few moments?" he asked. "I find myself unsettled slightly and reading will help."

    She was so tired she didn't mind at all, although usually she needed complete darkness to sleep, former roommates had commented on it. "No," she whispered. "It will not bother me." Then she was asleep. Hamish was only able to read a few words before he followed suit. Fortunately he remembered to blow out the candle.

    Catrin stretched her arms out to relieve the cramped feeling. She had slept better than the night before at the B&B. Must be the good country air. I feel quite refreshed. She lowered her arms to feel a hand on her. What the....? He promised he would not take such liberties. She had not looked closely at his hands before. They were working hands, but well taken care of, no dirty nails or hangnails. "Wait, I wasn't wearing this yesterday....I had on my denim shirt.....what is going on?" She flipped the covers back to see that she had on a long nightdress. This was most odd.

    She looked around the room. Everything was polished to a high shine and there was a fire crackling away in the fireplace. Okay, this is a very realistic dream! She backed into the bed and slowly sat down, jumping when she felt Hamish's hand that had fallen into her vacated space. "Hamish." No answer. "Hamish!" Slight mumbling. "Hamish!!" She said as she bounced on the bed.

    "What! I just got to sleep," he whinged as his eyes blinked away sleep. Then he stared at her. "What are you wearing...?" Then he looked down at his own attire. He had on a night shirt, much to his chagrin. "What is going on?" By the shocked look on Catrin's face, he knew she was clueless. He looked around to see the same changes to the room she had. He got up and pulled the cover around himself, then walked into the dressing rooms.

    "Come here!!" He called.

    Catrin ran into the other room. Clothing was laid out ready to be put on. "That was not there last night, was it?" She turned to Hamish for confirmation.

    "No," he shook his head. "It most definitely was not."

    "But where is my shirt...jeans...boots?" She asked him accusingly.

    "How should I know?" He retorted. "I have nothing either."

    They decided there was no other choice but to don the available items. Then they would go back downstairs and confess they had spent the night. Maybe there was some sort of story about the house being haunted, although the guide had not mentioned it.

    Just as they had finished dressing, there was a knock on the wall. No! There was a door there now. They looked at each other...no, it had not been there last night. They had examined all the walls very carefully for just such a thing. Nothing was to be done but answer.

    "Come in," they chorused.

    The door opened to a boy. "M'lady, m'lord, your breakfast awaits you. The guests have not yet risen and you wanted to be notified when the post arrived." He handed Hamish some letters, then stood by to await their response. He was a little surprised they were not in their dressing gowns, neither had rung for assistance in dressing.

    "Go on about your chores, young man," Hamish shrugged at Catrin. "We shall be down directly."

    The boy bowed and was about to scamper away when he remembered something. "M'lady, the wash woman asked that I bring down your ball gown. You said the wine stain should be taken out as soon as possible."

    Catrin shot an alarmed look at Hamish. I have no Idea where it might be!!! "Go on and take it to her." The boy took a moment to go into the other room and dashed away, some material trailing after him.

    So that was it, they were married. But how did they come to be there? And in what time period? The clothing was definitely Regency if Catrin remembered her movies correctly. Mmmmmm, might there be Colin Firth in a wet shirt? she thought wickedly.


    Chapter Two

    Eloise looked down at her clothing with disdain. "What type of woman is she to not wear proper attire? These are....men's trousers!!!! How can that be the fashion for young ladies?"

    Her husband turned around to model his new clothes. They quite suited him. Daniel's mouth dropped open at the sight of his wife. He did not know what to think of her in such attire. "It is the way we have seen many women dress in this time, dear," he knew he quite liked seeing her body in such a way. "I must confess, though, I had never thought....you look very fetching my dear," he walked over to Eloise and kissed her. "But you have not commented on me. Do I pass muster?"

    She looked at him with admiration. Yes, he looked quite good in these strange clothes, but something was different....Ah- ha! "Dearest you are as handsome as ever," Eloise smiled slowly. "Even more so without that horrid wig, I never told you.....but I dislike it so." At Daniel's hurt expression, she hugged him. "But I love you despite the wig."


    Catrin slid her arm through Hamish's as they started down the stairs. The only way they could locate the correct room was to look for the servants waiting to open the doors. This must be some dream to involve so many people, Hamish thought sourly. What did I eat this morning?

    They were astounded at the repast set in front of them. There were so many dishes they could not think of eating them all. "Such a change from a cuppa and cereal." commented Catrin.

    "My usual is coffee and a muffin...chocolate chip of course," answered Hamish.

    Ah...a chocoholic..... Catrin smiled to herself.

    Despite the meal's appearance, everything was surprisingly light. And as they had not had much for dinner the night before, they are ravenously. Just as they were finishing, a woman dressed as a nurse came running into the room. "Ma'am, something is wrong with the children!!"

    More alarming looks were sent between Hamish and Catrin as they tipped over chairs in their haste. "Children?" They managed to whisper.

    By the time they caught up with the surprisingly spry older woman, she had arrived at the nursery. Each taking a deep breath, they entered the room. There were four beds arranged along the walls. Each area was decorated with the favourite things of the child. Two children were still in bed, the other two jumped up and ran over when Catrin and Hamish entered.

    "Momma!!! Ewwen and Dinny are not waking up!" The little girl said with the pronunciation of a three-year-old. "I told dem they were being wazy, but they did not wisten...." Catrin bent down to pick up the little girl, while Hamish went to the nearest bed holding a sick child.

    "Shush, sweetie...we need to find out what's wrong," Catrin said as she got a hug.

    Hamish had no idea of the boy's name, fortunately, the nurse spoke up. "Master Daniel ha'nt been well these last few days, sir. E'er since the other comp'ny departed," she paused. "But none o' the children what visited were poorly."

    "Thank you for remembering," Hamish replied, recalling that he did not know her name either. He turned to the boy, "Now Daniel, can you tell me where it hurts?"

    Catrin winced when Daniel coughed and turned his face away from the window the nurse had just uncovered. "My chest hurts when I cough and I'm so hot."

    Indeed Hamish was already checking the boy for fever. But what could it be? He checked for other symptoms, runny nose, red eyes...all of them could be anything in a child. I am stumped.... "Open your mouth, Daniel, then you can rest." The boy complied and Hamish knew what they had to deal with. There were the white-blue spots that identified measles.

    A commotion was heard in the hallway and the nurse cried, "Oh, doctor!! I am so glad you have come!"

    "Henry!" The doctor greeted Hamish heartily. "I would not have thought you to be in a sick room!" They shook hands, Hamish warily. "Let me just check the boy over. How are we Daniel?"


    Eloise liked her new clothing only insofar as it did not seem to hold the dirt as easily as her fine dresses. Of course, the way Daniel looks at me.....she blushed at her thought. You are a grandmother, Eloise! You should not think about such things! She looked around at her rose garden, It had not been touched....much. "They could have weeded it a bit more and these bushes want trimming. Daniel!! Where have you gotten to with those trimmers?"

    Daniel groaned at the thought of more work. They had had gardeners before and Eloise was only needed to supervise their work. She was an exacting taskmaster, and in this garden, everything needed to be perfect.

    Eloise had been known throughout the county for her roses. She been very proud when their daughter had taken an interest. It had seemed an Herculean task, but the new bride had even gotten her husband involved. The rose garden had gone through several incarnations over the centuries. It had even been a pig sty once, which probably accounted for the lushness of plants grown there.


    "Oh no," blustered the doctor. "‘Tis that fever been goin' ‘round. I will just get down to business so I can get to the Henleys...the oldest boy is down ill." He walked over to where Hamish sat on the boy's bed. "Now Henry, if you'll let me see to the boy, I'll get started." Unwillingly, Hamish rose from the bed, but Daniel would not let go his hand, which caused Hamish to stay next to him for a moment. It was long enough. From the instruments the doctor removed from his bag, Hamish knew the man intended to bleed the 10-year-old.

    Hamish's face became flush with anger. His chest rose and fell with the effort to control himself. His teeth were clenched as he spoke, "I wish you would not do that...he is just a boy." I must be polite...can't go off the deep end just now....

    Catrin had been occupying the attention of the other two children with a finger game. She had kept one ear free in case she was needed. Now she had to figure out how to step in diplomatically. As Hamish's voice began to rise, she walked to his side. The doctor was looking at Hamish as if he were mad.

    "Pardon me Dr. Feeney," How do I know his name? Catrin wondered. "I would like to speak to my husband for a moment....please do nothing until we return." She pulled Hamish into the hall. "What is it? Do you know what Daniel has?" It felt quite familiar to use his name even though she had just met him.

    "I don't know what to do," Hamish's voice cracked. "It's measles. I think both the older ones have it and we have only a matter of days before the younger ones are down as well."

    "But won't the spots just go away? I remember the horrible itching, but they were gone in a few days. I do have a few scars from it though....." Catrin searched her memory for what childhood diseases she had had. Too bad I can't ask Mum right now.

    "Really?" Hamish was incredulous. "You had measles? Didn't you get vaccinated against them?" he quizzed her. "Maybe you got the bad vaccine, so you contracted them when you were exposed."

    "No...." Catrin thought. "We all had them at once. I had a light case and got over them more quickly. No! That was chicken pox! I didn't have measles, I got a vaccination about ten years ago. But why is it so serious? I thought they only lasted three days."

    "No," Hamish rubbed his face in his hands. "This is much more serious. It can lead to many complications that can have lifetime repercussions. I must find a way to get the fever down." He started to pace the floor. "I have aspirin, but do not want to risk Reye's Syndrome. And kids never seem to get this at the same time...usually one after the other." Hamish now began running his hands through his hair. "We must hope it stays external. If it goes to the lungs, it is nearly always fatal, and in this time period, I cannot do a thing."

    By now, Catrin was open-mouthed as he continued to talk almost to himself. When he caught her surprise though, he stopped. "Um....I didn't mention did I....but I'm a physician. Surgeon actually. Well, I was....will be....Drat this situation. I don't know if I'm comin' or goin'."

    Catrin felt something click inside her. "This is it. This is what we are supposed to do! I think anyway...keep the children from dying." She was excited at the possibility of a resolution and even a return home. Then she furrowed her brow. "But what is my purpose then? Surely you could have done this on your own? I could be on vacation now!"

    "No," Hamish protested. "I need you. The children seem to like you and well...I have not used these particular skills since specialising in surgery. I have had limited patient contact. Mostly I see patients pre and post surgery only. My partners see to them otherwise." He thought for a moment. "Actually I have not been satisfied with the arrangement of late, but I did not plan such a drastic change as this," he smiled, then remembered Daniel. "But wait, first we need to rectify the situation inside." And with a plan of action in mind, he reentered the nursery.

    The first thing they saw was terror in Daniel's eyes and his sleeve rolled up. The doctor was gently pushing at the boy's arm to find the correct vessel. Catrin knew she would not be able to hold Hamish back if this idiot even pierced the young boy's skin. Nor would she want to.

    "Excuse me, Dr. Feeney, I believe you were not to continue until my husband and I had talked it over," she paused. "We have and we choose to use another course of treatment. So you may be on your way to the Henleys." The man just looked at Catrin. His eyes narrowed slightly as he bent back to his task. "Do you mean to say you will go ahead and bleed Daniel even if we tell you not to do so?"

    "You are bein' silly, Caroline. This is the customary treatment for a fever. We need to bleed the sickness out of his body," Dr. Feeney was taken aback at their attitude. "You never had a fever as a child, young lady, but your brother did. Unfortunately, we could not get all the fever out and he died." Catrin was frozen in astonishment at this revelation.

    Hamish was not. He sprang forward and grabbed the doctor's wrist. "Will you leave under your own power or will you be carried?" You shall not kill any more children in this house, you barbaric quack! The doctor finally looked a little scared. "Consider yourself excused from these premises...NOW!!" Hamish walked to the door. "DENTON!!" He called for the footman, who appeared instantaneously. "Thank you....please escort Dr. Feeney out..have Williams assist you if need be. Dr. Feeney, take care that you do not leave any of your instruments."


    Chapter Three

    The trustees of the estate had decided to preserve the natural look of the house and grounds by locating the car park down near the road. Everyone walked through the same gate Catrin & Hamish had entered. This left an expansive lawn and many gardens. With so much to be tended, no one gave any notice to Daniel and Eloise, nor was their presence questioned.

    Eloise had sent Daniel to search for some stakes with which to tie up the rose trees. He had been successful and was returning when a thought struck him. He entered the study and felt as if he had returned to his own time . Nothing is changed! He marvelled, then realised they would have things as they were....but not exactly. They could not know that. He walked to the shelves. Some were real books, but most were just false fronts to make it look as if the shelves were full.

    Daniel was disgusted at the thought of the falsehood. He had had full shelves of real volumes. He remembered his original intention. Walking over to a window, he slid a small panel aside. Grinning in triumph, he pulled a small pouch from inside. "A-ha!" It was his stash of tobacco which Eloise had forbidden in the house. She had only allowed it outside as she hated the smell and the extra cleaning required. He filled his pipe and was just about to light it from a candle, when a gasp sounded behind him.

    He looked round guiltily to see Eloise frowning from the doorway. Calmly, he blew out the candle and replaced the pipe in the pouch. "I found the stakes," he pointed at the pile on the floor. "They should meet your requirements. Let's go try them out." He picked up the bundle of stakes and ushered Eloise from the room, tucking the pouch in his pocket as they left.


    When Hamish and Catrin returned their attention to the boy, Daniel looked much smaller in his bed. Spots had begun to appear on his face even in the few moments away from him. The first thing Hamish did was get everyone out of the room.

    "Please bring me basins of fresh water and clean cloths," he said to the others. "Then no one can enter but the two of us," he motioned to Catrin, then he turned to her. "We can at least keep him cool."

    Catrin had been mulling over his earlier words. "We have to keep their fevers down, right?"

    Hamish nodded, a bit nonplussed at her lack of reaction to the announcement that he was a physician. This was usually of intense interest.

    "Well," she continued. "I know I have aspirin, but I seem to remember a news item about that." Hamish's mouth opened slightly in amazement. Catrin paid no notice. "I think I have a packet of acetaminophen that came in the post the day I left. I believe I crammed it in my bag. Should I go check?" He nodded dumbly and she was off before he could utter a word.

    Catrin returned some time later, slightly out of breath. "Here!" She thrust the packet at Hamish. "Will it be enough?" She chose not to tell him that she had taken so much time because she had gotten lost in the many hallways.

    Hamish muttered while fumbling with the childproof cap. "We should have one of the children open it, I'm sure they would have no trouble." Once he had it open, he counted the pills. "Twenty tablets. Good. We can break them in half to give a child's portion. With some left over for ourselves....just in case."


    The rose trees had been attended to and Eloise was satisfied.....at last. Daniel wiped his damp forehead with his sleeve. He looked around at their handiwork. None were the same varieties that Eloise had first put in the garden so many years ago, but they were quite beautiful. He gathered up his tools and began the trek to the shed. Eloise was standing just inside the garden wall, staring at a small vine.

    "What is it?" he asked. We could not have missed any weed!

    Eloise raised tear-filled eyes to her husband. "I found the Alba rose that you gave me when we had been married 25 years. It has nearly been lost under the brush."

    Daniel knelt down and began pulling the weeds away from the broken plant. Turning slightly, he saw a tear run down his wife's cheek. Reaching over, he laid a hand on her face and wiped the tear away. "We shall tend to it and return it to health. You are the only one who has the ability...just tell me what I need to do."

    Eloise held his hand and kissed it, then leaned over to help. For once, she did not mind having a dirty face.


    Catrin and Hamish had settled the children, for the moment and were deciding on what to do next. "I really do not know the distinction," Catrin said, her voice cracking slightly. "I have heard of both kinds of measles, but how are they different?" Her brow furrowed, Please don't make fun of me!

    The confusion on her face led Hamish's thought in a direction far away from pediatric medicine.No! I must not use this to my advantage, tempted though I am...Then he noticed she was awaiting his answer to something. "Pardon me, what did you ask?" He would have to put aside those thoughts until later.

    "I said, how are they different? Is it very deadly, are you certain we shall not catch it?"

    Hamish sighed in exasperation, then realised Catrin was serious. "No, we are immunised," he looked at Catrin, "Right?" She nodded. "Okay.....well, we are the only ones who can nurse the children. Everyone else could catch it. I'm going to set up a scrub room where we must wash upon entering or exiting the nursery. And even the laundry...."

    "Yes?" questioned Catrin, suddenly suspicious.

    "It will have to be...." he began, then caught the look on her face. "We shall have to boil it up here before the others touch it."

    "Just so you don't have me cleaning sheets in addition to all the care the children will need. I barely do my own laundry, let alone anyone else's. I mean the very idea is ludicrous...."

    "I did not say anything of the kind," Hamish interrupted her tirade. "We just need to break the chain of infection. Even boiling the sheets here will enable the others to handle the linen, without chancing an epidemic. It's as simple as sanitary conditions. There's a reason for the hand-cleaning reminders in toilets." He decided not to mention the emptying of chamber pots.

    "Then what am I doing here, I ask again?" Hamish looked at the children then back to Catrin. "Oh, no..." she understood his thought perfectly. "I am not good with children...especially babies. They always start to wail the moment I touch them. I prefer to give them back to the parents when they get fussy."

    Hamish looked at her intently.

    "What?" Catrin demanded to know, that look made her feel disconcerted.

    Softly Hamish said, "We are the parents."

    Catrin paced back and forth holding little Maria, barely two. The girl was not able to keep from scratching her spots when in bed. So they were trying another way. Either Catrin or Hamish, right now she preferred Catrin, would walk the child until she fell asleep, then they would try fastening mittens on her hands. She was nearly asleep. Just a few more minutes...I hope, thought Catrin. My arms are aching so! She heard a noise across the room and looked up to see Hamish watching her. She caught him and he looked away, almost embarrassed. When he turned back to her, this time he held her eyes, but only for a moment and then turned away to check on Hannah.


    "Oh, no," Catrin cried, looking out at the grounds one day. "My garden and my Alba rose...what will become of it? And my houseplants? How long have we been here?" Her friend Phyllida was caring for Catrin's garden, but she had a black thumb when it came to houseplants. "Who knows what I shall go home to," whinged Catrin. Phyllida had recently spent some time in Tuscany and come back ideas on how Catrin's garden could be improved. Phyllida had recently ended a rocky relationship with a fiery Scot. So the trip was an escape, but while there, she had met Rupert. A much more level-headed man who had some job with copiers. He had changed Phyllida for the better, and she was much happier now, but probably no better at caring for houseplants.


    Chapter Four

    Posted on 12-9-00

    Long days stretched into interminable nights. Naturally, the children went through the measles stages at different times. Daniel was nearly well when Maria first showed symptoms, then Hannah and lastly Ellen. As they recovered, Hamish had a room adjacent to the nursery fitted out, so they could all be together, but far enough apart to not be bothered by the ones still sick.

    Hamish had not gotten much rest in the last weeks. Even though Catrin had insisted, he had managed only a few fitful hours. Once he had awoken after a particularly vivid nightmare in which the children were taken away and locked up. He sat up in bed, dripping with sweat and panting. Then he ran to the nursery and jerked the door open. Catrin looked up in alarm to see him all wild-eyed. Then she left Daniel to finish the story and managed to move Hamish out into the hall and shut the door.

    After seeing everything was normal, Hamish was embarrassed at his overreaction. He looked at Catrin, opened his mouth a few times, then shook his head and left, running hands through his hair as he went.

    Catrin pulled open the door to see several bodies skidding back into bed, feigning innocence. "Do not move," she ordered. "I'll know if you do." Well, it worked when my mom used it, she grinned as she turned toward the door..

    Hamish paced indecisively for a few moments. Then he heard steps in the nursery and knew Catrin would be looking for him. He grabbed the first door he saw and walked down a hallway he had not found before. There were doors on either side and a deep window seat at the end. He walked down and looked at the view, from which most of the gardens were visible. The most charming was one with many benches and beautifully trimmed rose trees. Hamish had overheard servants' conversations and knew this was a favourite garden of Caroline's mother. Suddenly he wondered where his mother-in-law was. London? Travelling abroad? Deceased?

    And why had he been brought here anyway…….to help the children through their illness obviously. What had the tour guide said? Now why did I not pay attention? He berated himself. Because you were too busy chatting up that redhead weren't you? And then what happened…you were pulled back in time with a burnt out secretary.

    Actually Hamish had no idea what Catrin's profession was. He just presumed that she had escaped a boring job to "find herself". Nothing could be further from the truth. She enjoyed her job at the library immensely. Her degrees were in history and writing. The time at work was quiet much of the day, so she was able to research whichever subject was obsessing her at the moment. Right now, she was immersing herself in the Restoration era….post-Cromwell, post-plague and post-fire.

    Upon their arrival here, Catrin had at first berated herself for not doing more research in the Regency period. Work had provided a dear friend in Phyllida. They had shared a flat for a time until Phyllida's former boyfriend had caused Catrin to move out. When 'the jerk', as they had named him, was finally sent packing, there had been an available flat in Catrin's building and the two regained their closeness. Now they did not room together, but were close neighbors.

    Hamish made his way back to the door and listened for Catrin's voice. Hearing nothing, he cautiously pulled the door open. It was clear and he made his way back to their rooms. Still not feeling 'normal', he knew sleep would not come easily.

    This was the first time he had ever felt out of control. As a surgeon, he had a tight control on his emotions and this had reached into his personal life. He had had to work for his education but easily. He passed all levels of examinations with a minimum of studying. Then found himself in the right university, right house and right practise.

    But this current situation was different. There were so many questions in addition to the obvious one of why they were there. Why was he so attracted to Catrin? She was definitely not his type. He usually dated thin, busty women....blondes or redheads in particular. Deep down he knew they were probably artificially enhanced. Whereas Catrin was most definitely real. More than once he had caught himself staring at her in wonder, the particular fashion in this time made that so easy, even were she a maid, he would stare in such a manner. They had had no disagreements, but had not discussed anything more pressing than immediate problems. Catrin was actually quite bright, he decided. But not his type. If they had met in modern London, each would have gone their own way.


    "How do you think things are going back then?" Eloise asked Daniel. She didn't know exactly how to refer to their situation.

    "We will not know for certain until it is finished. We can only go back when they have been successful," Daniel said thoughtfully.

    "Since we found out that the two we chose are not married, I have been nervous that we were a bit hasty. Maybe...." Eloise worried. "We may have put them in an inappropriate situation."

    "Well, we were not to know, just by seeing them in the picture. And no one has been here, worried of either one. We can hope that each was alone..." Daniel stopped, realising that this was something else of which his wife did not approve.

    "What happens when we return? That will mean there are heirs to hand the estate down to....Is there some way of repaying these two for the service they have done for us?"

    "I am sure we can think of something. If only they leave their names....."


    Catrin found him in their sitting room. Hamish had thrown open the window and with his arms braced on the sill, was using the chill air to help steady his breathing. Slowly, his chest heaved less and less until he felt able to lower himself onto the settee. He did not turn at hearing her step, but knew of her presence. His stooped shoulders added to his general tired look. Catrin laid a calming hand on his shoulder, at which he flinched.

    "You have overtired yourself. These last few days I know you have not really slept," Catrin began to rub his shoulders.

    Hamish leaned back, enjoying the feel of her hands as they massaged his tight muscles. "It has been a difficult situation without my usual drugs available," No, there is more to it than that. "I did not know I could feel so much for complete strangers. I never did with my surgical patients. But the children were such helpless victims...." his voice cracked with emotion. It had been quite an epiphany for him to have such a personal investment in the well-being of his patients. And he had never spent much time with children, even family.

    He reached up and took Catrin's hand. Holding it within both of his, he turned it up and kissed her palm. A surprised gasp escaped her. He pulled her around onto his lap and they searched each other's faces intently, moving imperceptibly closer. Catrin saw his tears and put her free hand up to brush them away. Their lips touched briefly at first, then with more passion than either knew they felt. They pulled away breathlessly.

    Catrin was surprised at her attraction to Hamish. He was not her usual type. She had not really liked what she felt were egotistical, self-important professionals. Her preference had tended toward less regulated lifestyles. Because of her strange working hours, that had been the best way to meet people. The most recent man in her life had been an actor/writer/waiter...whichever gave the best employment at the time. She would not have gone out of her way to meet Hamish at a party. And, she remembered. He had thought I should be more impressed with his career than I was. So why was she in this position now? She could not explain it. However they were here, she felt it to be right, Scary as it is... She looked at Hamish. He was nice looking, but not gorgeous...slightly receding hairline....few lines around his eyes. All in all, just what she would expect from someone who had a demanding career.

    As she searched his face, he looked like a deer in headlights. It was true, neither had planned for this, not that they had planned to be pulled back in time, either.

    Hamish cleared his throat. "I...I need.." he cleared it again. I need to keep on with this "I should check on the kids. They're fine now, and the nurse can handle anything.....or call me...." He stood and quickly crossed the room. "I'm...sorry." He opened the door and Catrin heard his footsteps disappear down the hallway.

    She got up and shut the door. "Coward," she said to the air. Not that she wasn't just as alarmed. What do I know of him? She sighed. He's probably married or living with someone. That type always is. She thought frowning. But he doesn't wear a ring...and no tan line where it should be...so he's that type. And I bet his wife wears all kinds of jewellery....maybe is even filled with silicon. In reality, Hamish was involved with a few women, but none really seriously. They always were useful on his arm at the theatre or other functions.


    Her maid had given Catrin a funny look, but complied and produced a variety of dried herbs. Catrin crushed them lightly, then put them in a sachet and tossed it into the bath. The room filled with slightly scented steam.

    "I'll call when I need you," Catrin dismissed the maid. She still did not like being attended to constantly. Living alone, it was not something she was used to either. And Catrin did not want any talk of what he did next. Slowly, she drew the razor out of its case. This will make me feel better. It always does. She carefully placed the blade on her leg and pulled. It was sharp enough and moved the lathered soap up while removing the hairs she hated so. Whenever she was at a low point, a little pampering was always the perfect thing. Even though it would be more difficult here, Catrin was bound and determined to try. She relished the feeling of the herbs and even though there were not many bubbles, she felt rejuvenated already. Smiling, Catrin thought about the many candles in her flat. In the place she currently was, they were the only form of light, not merely a way to create atmosphere.

    She soaked a cloth in the herb-filled water, then wrung it out before placing it over her eyes. The food is richer than I'm used to and it's making me break out in zits, she thought crossly. But it is very good. I have not eaten so well since I left home. But I do miss takeaways....Chinese....Curry....um...THAI!! "Oh dear, I'm making myself homesick.."


    The weather was finally bright and sunny. Catrin craved fresh air and Hamish wanted the kids to stretch their legs. Everyone was slightly stir crazy from the long weeks inside.

    The kids played for a while, then had a light meal. The sun was warm and Catrin began to relax. She moved her dress along her legs, enjoying the smooth feeling. As she sat on the spread blanket, she watched the clouds as the breeze moved them across the sky. The sun was warm with hint of a breeze, just enough to move them across the sky.

    First she recognised John Cleese doing his silly walk, then she saw Alfred Hitchcock's famous profile. Oh no...was that Bob Hope's nose? And why am I seeing old actors? She and Phyllida had played Spot-the-Celebrity-in-the-Clouds for years. Oh dear, I'm homesick again. Their Saturday walks in Richmond seemed to be unusually fertile in providing the appropriate clouds for their game. I guess I shouldn't let on what I'm doing, or these people might think I have evil powers.

    Hamish sat beside her for a moment to catch his breath. Catrin kept watching the clouds.

    "What're you doin'?" Hamish asked.

    Catrin sighed. It seemed he was being deliberately pestering. "I'm just being quiet. You probably have no concept of wanting that. But I'm not used to having such close contact with kids....I need to breathe," she looked over, but he averted his eyes so as to not make eye contact. It unnerved her when he looked so intently at her and said nothing. Then when he did speak, he would stutter and leave, running his hands through his hair. She had to admit to herself that it would be nice to run her hands through it. But this time he had no chance to take off, as they felt the first raindrops.

    "Shouldn't we get the kids inside?" Catrin said, worried that they would relapse. That would be most unpleasant. "I don't think I can handle them all sick again."

    Hamish stood up and brushed his clothing off, then held his hands out palms up. "It's just a warm sprinkle, won't last long by the looks of it." Seeing him stand, the kids came tearing across the lawn towards him. The five took hands and danced around Catrin, then suddenly fell to the ground giggling.

    Catrin watched while Hamish played in the soft rain with the children. The picnic was over due to the sudden shower. Now they ran back to the house, soggy but not drenched. He certainly was not a wet Colin Firth, but she didn't love Colin Firth, she loved Hamish. Oh my!!! Am I in love with him?? When it had happened, she could not tell. But her history with men was not good, so should she risk herself again? So, Catrin told herself...it is just a holiday fling...a crush. I'll not see him once we return to London.

    She felt an ache at that thought...and sadly, it was a familiar feeling. Being in brief relationships, she was used to an initial feeling of euphoria, then the inevitable let down. This was probably no different, except for the circumstances. In fact, Catrin realised she was not sure Hamish had been alone on the tour. Yes, they had sat on the same seat in the coach, but did he seem to spend any time with one person in particular? She wracked her brain. But why did it matter?


    Stories had been told in town of Caroline and Henry's odd behaviour. They had been speaking strangely and showing more emotion. Not to mention their actions toward Dr. Feeney, which most people secretly cheered. The proud parents had even had a painting done of the children. It now hung proudly in the gallery.

    The household servants enjoyed the new affection between Henry and Caroline. No one talked about the couple sleeping separately since the most recent miscarriage. The servants had despaired that the childrens' illness would further drive the couple apart. But here they were, together......laughing and playing with their offspring.

    Hamish had the kids' complete attention as he told the story. When he finished, it was bedtime, but they clamoured for more.

    "All right...one more," Hamish could only remember texts from medical school, but there was one thing, if he could reach back far enough in his memory. How did it start....

    "Well, there was something I had to recite every Christmas," Hamish coloured at remembering the various outfits he had had to wear when called upon to do his part. He stood up straight and clasped his hands together, then began in a clear voice. "‘Sonnet on Christmas' by John Codrington Bampfylde."

    WITH footstep slow, in furry pall clad,
    His brows enwreath'd with holly never-sear,
    Old Christmas comes, to close the waned year;
    And ay the Shepherd's heart to make right glad;
    Who, when his teeming flocks are homeward had,
    To blazing hearth repairs, and nut-brown beer,
    And views, well-pleas'd, the ruddy prattlers dear
    Hug the grey mongrel; meanwhile maid and lad
    Squabble for roasted crabs.--Thee, Sire, we hail,
    Whether thine aged limbs thou dost enshroud,
    In vest of snowy white, and hoary veil,
    Or wrap'st thy visage in a sable cloud;
    Thee we proclaim with mirth and cheer, nor fail
    To greet thee well with many a carol loud.

    Hamish paused dramatically then said, "Now to sleep...all of you!" He couldn't believe it when they obeyed. His nieces and nephews never seemed to be so compliant. He and Catrin went to each child and tucked them in snugly. When they got to Daniel, the boy reached out and pulled Hamish down to whisper in his ear. Hamish answered him and they shared a secret smile.

    Catrin giggled as she thought of Hamish as little boy, maybe even in short pants, stumbling through his recitation of the poem. "What were you dressed as when you did your poem?" Hamish coloured again. "I knew it!" Catrin was triumphant. "You had to dress as Father Christmas, didn't you?"

    “That reminds me,” Hamish began. “I have something for you.” He ushered Catrin toward their rooms. Once there, he sat her down and rummaged around until he pulled out a small package.

    Catrin's curiosity overcame her surprise as she undid the wrapping. As the fabric unrolled in her hand, she had to grab to keep its contents from falling to the floor. When she righted it to get a good look, her breath caught in her throat. It was a miniature of Hamish. The painting actually resembled Henry, but Catrin could see Hamish behind the facade. She looked up at him, unable to speak.

    "I, um, overheard you the other night. You were rocking Ellen and telling her about a birthday party. From what you said, I realised your birthday was a few weeks ago. Your holiday was in celebration, right? Well, um, I decided to make sure you had something to remember it by. Something tangible, that is." He crouched down to her eye level.

    Catrin had not remembered there was a full moon, but Hamish's face reflected it. Or was it her imagination? Can I love him? We have only known each other for a few days!! The strength of her love surprised Catrin, she did not want to leave Hamish, even if it meant they were to stay in the wrong time period.

    "We should not be engaged in this activity, sir." Catrin wondered why she was speaking and behaving so formally. "This is reserved for married persons and we are not."

    Hamish looked at her for a moment, disappointed, then his eyes took on a mischievous gleam. "Yes we are, milady," he stated.

    Catrin frowned in confusion.

    "In this particular time and place, we are husband and wife. And therefore allowed such pleasures," he nearly laughed at the look on her face.

    "Then pray sir," she moved her face close to his. "Do continue," she lightly touched his lips with hers.


    Chapter Five

    Posted on January 10, 2001

    She remained inside on the pretense of a slight cold, but Eloise really wanted to rest a bit. Working in the gardens was quite enjoyable, still she was not used to doing the work herself. Wrapped in a thick blanket, she sat in the deep window seat at the end of the long hallway. This used to be hidden by a heavy curtain. Eloise smiled as she remembered what she and Daniel had gotten up to there. It was a most enjoyable pleasure. We also played hide and seek with the children, when the weather was nasty.

    A movement outside caught her attention. Daniel was heading toward the house. He looked like he was talking to himself. But Eloise could tell from his dramatic gesturing that he was reciting Shakespeare again. She giggled at that, then stared past him at the distant line of trees. She was not sure that her chosen ones were being successful. The woman was right, surely...but the man? It had to work out; sometimes Eloise worried that she would be in this century permanently. She replayed her decision in her mind.

    As Eloise looked out from her painting, she saw no one remarkable. No one to fill her needs. There were only tourists.....and that insufferable tour guide. How the guide's voice grated on Eloise's nerves; especially when she exaggerated the truth. The guide managed to turn a measles outbreak into another Black Death. True, it was not the guide's fault Eloise's grandchildren were not able to live full, robust lives. The estate fell into disrepair when it was taken from the rightful heirs by the side of the family notorious for squandering all they had.

    Eloise wished she could plug her ears and cover her eyes, but the group soon moved on. One man caught her attention though. He stood transfixed by the family portrait. A moment later, he was joined by a young woman, whose eyes sought out every detail of the painting, finally locking with Eloise's.

    Eloise knew then that these two were the ones she needed. Somehow they would save her family. She passed the message, then watched as the woman took the man's hand and they passed through the hidden door. Eloise did find it remarkable that he followed with no question, but felt satisfied thus far at her choice.

    As the two passed into the upper room, Eloise and Daniel stepped through the door and into the twentieth century. In their natural clothing at first, the couple was easily mistaken for participants in the estate's living history. There was no alarm at their presence. Since they had no demands on them, they spent the evenings in different rooms each night. Their own rooms were not habitable as most of that floor was storage and offices. When they got over being appalled at that, Daniel had suggested using rooms that were fitted out properly. She and Daniel had been having fun, too. It was almost a game to them and made each feel younger. When night fell, one would choose a room for the night and the other would have to guess from clues given.

    In the course of wandering through the storerooms, Daniel found piles of books. When he went through them, he found that most were from his library. But why aren't they in place? So he decided to move a few books at a time to the where they belonged.


    Catrin woke up feeling Hamish's arm curled around her protectively. Not that this is new to either of us........still it is nice to have the sense of someone near. She had missed this good feeling.

    They had not often slept in the same bed since that first night, and even then very chastely. Ever since, one or the other kept watch over the children. When she was not catching a nap in the nursery, Catrin had not slept well. Last night's rest had done her a world of good, despite her actually having slept fewer hours. She warmed at the thought. ....Or perhaps because of it?she grinned.

    Hamish murmured next to her, reminding Catrin it was nearly morning, even though the sun had not yet risen. She should be up and check on the children, but did not want to wake him. It need not have worried her, however. Hamish was already awake. He moved carefully from the bed lest she waken, but she missed his nearness immediately.

    Catrin became more fully awake and was on the verge of regretting her behaviour of last night. What did I do? She eyed Hamish as he slipped into his dressing gown on. You know full well what you did!!! Well at least I'm on the pill. OH! I might be, but I'm certain Caroline was not. I hope she is prepared should we get pregnant. What am I saying?!!! I hope I'm prepared!!! It's not something I ever planned on going through. But I won't be alone....

    After Hamish left the room, Catrin decided it was time to be up and around. Not being used to a maid who did for her, Catrin had come to an arrangement with the girl. Catrin would dress herself and call the maid to help her with her hair and any unreachable fastenings.

    Today, Catrin appreciated the time to herself, as she needed to think things through. She wouldn't mind being stuck here as long as she had Hamish's company. Apart from their physical attraction, she thought him a very kind man. And he was very good with the kids. Oh my!! What about his obvious revulsion of Dr. Feeney? He certainly is passionate about his patients. Catrin contemplated that for a moment. "But is he really like that? He did say he never got involved with any personal aspects of his patients, but maybe he never got the chance. So is there anything else that I find in him....deeper than the physical? Can't base a relationship solely on that."

    She pulled a dress on over her chemise and fastened it as far as she could reach. Then picked up the brush from the table and started on her tangled mass of hair. The blonde colour was nearly gone now...well, it was a little bit out near the ends...but begging to be cut off. If she had been back home, she would have had several appointments in this time and her medium honey blonde colour would be uniform. Now she was nearly back to her boring old light brown. She peered closely into the mirror. It does look more healthy now...and thicker. "Just shows you what a few months without pollution and chemicals will do."

    She rang for the Betty to come arrange her hair. As she turned her head, she decided to cut the remaining blonde off. It will only be an inch or so and then I won't a constant reminder of what I'm missing.She thought for a moment. Hamish has nice hair. And he looks very good in these Regency fashions. There had been a faraway look in his eyes when they were picnicking last week. What was going through his mind? They had been talking about favourite authors and other things from their past...well, future....whatever.

    Catrin decided she would just live in the moment while they were here and not worry about the future. "If it gets here, it gets here. I'll deal with it then." She was a little surprised to realise she liked things as they were. She had never liked uncertainty, but this was an odd circumstance. She would greatly miss him, though, should they return to their separate lives. In previous relationships, she found herself becoming a mirror of her boyfriend. It had taken her quite a bit of time...and therapy to find herself again after he left her. She then vowed at that time, it would never happen again. So maybe it would be for the best if they couldn't connect in their own century. Preparing herself for disappoint sometimes lessened the inevitable hurt.


    "Sir have you taken to trimming the hedges with your razor?" The manservant asked Hamish.

    "Certainly not, Victor! What a question!!"

    Victor showed Hamish green flecks floating in the shaving water. "And the handle seems to be damp as well, sir," he said as he began to sharpen the blade along a leather strap.

    Hamish's mind jumped to Catrin. No, she didn't think of that......did she? Quite an ingenious girl, that one..... He smiled to himself.

    Victor finished and brushed any hairs off Hamish's collar. He carefully cleaned and dried the razor. Hamish ran his hands over his face. "Very nice despite the greenery, Victor." When Hamish rose from the chair, he took the razor with him.

    Catrin was just coming down the hall as Hamish closed his dressing room door. He grabbed her hand and brought it to his lips.

    "Good morning, my dear. You are up and about early." Geez, it's easy to slip into their speech patterns.

    "Well," began Catrin. I'm not telling him I only pretended to be asleep, just to watch him get dressed. "I woke up not feeling well. My head was all stuffy. But a short walk in the fresh air fixed me right up."

    Hamish had not let go of her hand and she quite liked it. "I do have a question for you," he started, then held out the razor. "Victor pointed out the improper condition of this little item. Would you be able to shed any light on how it got that way?"

    "Why no sir, I can't," Catrin smiled mischievously. "But it may have something to do with my bath." She noticed Hamish's eyes twinkling. "I was feeling so low a few weeks ago...feeling sort of marooned here...and well, it just made me feel better to pamper myself." She suddenly had a thought. "Are you saying you don't want me to do it again?"

    Hamish thought for a moment. It makes no difference to me...or to most men for that matter. Ah, yah...as long as you are willing, I'll put up with whatever... But how to put that tactfully? Here goes....I hope......"Since it does enhance your own self image, then by all means....." he kissed her hand again. "Shall we go down to breakfast?" He started to pull her down the hall, but it was not in the direction of the stairs.

    "You, I mean we, slept in, mister. It's now lunch," Catrin retorted and pulled him back the right way.

    "I can't get used to not having my watch. I wish I hadn't forgotten it when I left the inn," he said sheepishly and pulled her hand through the crook of his arm.

    "Well, it would have been out of place here anyway. Isn't there a pocket watch somewhere?" Catrin inquired helpfully as they descended the stairs. He was being so silly about the watch. Time was easy here....work during the daylight, find some way to pass the time in candle or firelight. Quite contrary to her previous schedule of late nights.

    "Yes, I have that, but it doesn't chirp on the hour, and there isn't any alarm either," he pursed his lips in annoyance.

    "Ah, modern conveniences," sighed Catrin. "I do miss my mobile. But I don't wear a watch on holiday. It's a constant reminder that soon I'll be done and go back home." With conventional holidays....not this one.


    Nothing was said among the household servants, but there was much happiness at the knowledge that Henry had been found in their bed chamber rather than the room where he had been sleeping in the last months. Now the couple were constantly touching each other and even the children. Servants had, on several occasions, entered a room to find Caroline on Henry's lap. The couple never seemed to be embarrassed.

    There were oddities, though. Caroline had not played the piano in some time. She always performed for family and friends without much prompting. Now nothing induced her near the instrument. When asked, Catrin came up with lame excuses each time. Why did they persist? Catrin only remembered bits and pieces of her piano lessons of years ago. She could read music, but not well enough to pass for an accomplished pianist no matter how hard she tried to fake it.

    One inclement day, Hamish found Catrin surrounded by the children. They were so intent on what she was doing that they didn't even notice him walk in.

    "I want the pink ribbon, Mama," said Hannah.

    "What is everyone up to here?" Hamish asked as he leaned over Daniel. All he saw were piles of coloured paper and snips of hair, tied with ribbon.

    Catrin smiled up at him. "We are making remembrance books," she swallowed. "So we can write stories and tell them when we get older." Hamish caught the meaning. In case we leave without warning.

    "Poppa.....you need some of Momma's hair as a ‘membrance," announced Maria. Hamish raised his eyebrows as he looked at Catrin. She nodded and handed over her needlework scissors. Hamish picked a lock of hair that curled next to her temple. He snipped it off and kissed the spot where it had lain. When he gave the scissors back to Catrin, their hands closed over each other.

    "Momma, what colour ribbon?" Ellen asked. Her voice broke the spell Hamish and Catrin were under.

    "Um, well, I don't know, sweetie. What colour do you think Poppa would like?"

    Ellen's little fingers picked up each ribbon several times before deciding on one. "Here. The green one. It matches Momma's eyes."

    "Okay, then that's it," Catrin fastened the ribbon around the lock in Hamish's hand. "Well," she looked up at him. "Where shall you keep it?"

    "I don't know.....my watch perhaps?" Hamish pulled it out of his waistcoat pocket and opened the compartment at the back. He carefully put the treasure inside. As he looked back at Catrin, his eyes widened in surprise.

    "You four need to get ready for tea now," Hamish ordered. "Put all of this away and we'll all go down together." The kids obeyed.

    Catrin's brow furrowed in confusion at his abruptness. He took her arm and escorted her from the room.

    "What are you doing?" Catrin said crossly. "We were having a nice time."

    "Well, number one, it is time to eat. That is why I came to get you in the first place. But number two....what colour are your eyes?"

    Catrin shook her head. What was he on about? "Green, but I don't know what you're talking about. Why did you..."

    Hamish interrupted her by pointing at a painting in the hallway. "Look. Caroline's eyes are brown. Yours, Catrin are green. How did Ellen know?"

    Catrin's mouth dropped open and she shook her head slowly. "I have no idea....but it's really scary." Well, it was as strange as them being pulled back in time.


    Chapter Six

    Posted on January 30, 2001

    After checking on the kids, who were busily playing, Hamish walked slowly back to his room. It had been wonderful last night. And now he realised he never even contemplated leaving her afterward; unlike his previous habit of escaping as soon as possible. He would definitely have fancied Catrin in his other life, enough to talk her into bed. And it probably would have been good, he thought satisfactorily and with a little guilt. But he thought that maybe she would have been the first to leave.

    "Still...now that we have gotten to know each other beforehand, she is an interesting person." He had been amazed to find out that she had planned her life in one direction. And then completely changed everything after realising she wasn't happy. She quit her job and even moved to start over. Completely. Totally. She didn't even keep in contact with friends from that part of her life. It had amazed him. He had known all his life he would be a doctor...had fought for it with every course and exam.

    Before, a little thing like Dr. Feeney's attitude and treatment would not have bothered Hamish. The man's attitude was Hamish's. In forcing that man out, it was as if Hamish rid himself of a piece he had never liked, but had ignored. Maybe he was not meant to be the aloof surgeon, as he had lived. He certainly did not feel so around Catrin. Her hair shined in candlelight. Her eyes seemed to be always laughing. And despite her protestations that she didn't feel comfortable around children...there she was..right in the middle of four kids as they raced around.

    Hamish wondered fleetingly if they had done the right thing. It felt good at the time...Of course it did!! so he didn't really mind. At least they would enjoy themselves for however long they would be in this place. What if Catrin decided once was enough? For Hamish, having opened that particular door he knew he wouldn't be able to close it again.

    He didn't need to worry. Deep in his thoughts, Hamish didn't hear Catrin approach. So he jumped slightly when arms slid around him and she kissed him just below his ear. Okay, he thought. This is different...but very good.

    "I checked," Catrin whispered. "No one's around so we aren't flouting propriety or anything." She kissed him again.

    Hamish turned and slid his arms around his wife. Wife?!? Ohmigosh!!! Live-in girlfriends were nothing new and this was just that with a little twist, wasn't it. No, it's more...He leaned down and kissed Catrin. They were thus engaged when much throat-clearing finally caught their attention.

    "Mr. Edwards to see you, sir. He awaits in the study." The maid hurriedly curtseyed and left.

    Hamish and Catrin let out held breaths and laughed, then he lightly kissed her. "I guess I should see what he wants. Catch you up later?" Catrin nodded with a lifted eyebrow.

    Hamish had his hand on the doorknob when he turned. "Mr. Edwards is who?"

    Frantically Catrin searched her memory. "Your London solicitor," she whispered. Hamish nodded his thanks and left.

    Catrin then fell into the nearest chair. Her legs had turned to jelly and wouldn't support her anymore. "OH, wow," she breathed. "We need to do more of that!!" It just might be a good way to pass the time here, Catrin grinned to herself.

    Some time later, a footman knocked on the study door. At Hamish's call to enter, he was wordlessly handed a folded paper. There was a slight fragrance of rosemary and lavender to it. He breathed deeply as he opened the note. It read "Sir, I am aware that you are attending to estate business. And while this needs to be taken care of, there is an issue pressing on me that I must consult you on. The company, cigar and brandy must be good to keep your attention for such a time. I await your arrival in great anticipation." Although unsigned, Hamish knew the author, now he must be rid of his guest.

    "Mr. Edwards, a most urgent issue has arisen that requires my immediate attention. You should be able to find the author I mentioned." Hamish handed over a sheet of paper. "The publisher could be John Murray, but she, I mean the author, may have had the manuscripts moved to another. Anything that this author publishes, I would like to add to my collection. In fact, get two copies of each. I'd like a set for my wife." Mr. Edwards nodded. Hamish escorted him to the door and said goodbye, then made haste upstairs.

    As he departed, Mr. Edwards looked after Henry strangely. A set of books for his wife? How odd....it seems the talk about these two has merit, he smiled to himself as the door shut behind him.


    Daniel and Eloise walked arm-in-arm around the estate. They were quite proud of their efforts over the last weeks. Suddenly Eloise tripped. Daniel caught her before she fell to the ground. They looked down to see what caused her to stumble. Her stifled scream became a loud squeak as she saw the snake. Daniel pushed her out of its reach, then he began to look at it curiously.

    It seems to be quite a long snake, he contemplated as he walked along to find the end.

    Eloise thought the same as she walked in the other direction. Daniel was going down the lawn toward the kitchen garden as she neared the house. She discovered her end of the snake attached to a pipe rising from the ground. Okay, it was not a snake,Good, especially since she didn't remember a snake being exactly that colour. She twisted the handle on the pipe. Somewhere down the lawn, there was a noise. Eloise stepped back to see what it was. There was Daniel furiously trying to keep hold of his end while water streamed over him.

    Eloise began to giggle, then laugh as Daniel finally emerged the victor. He glowered as he stalked up to his wife. Her laughter calmed down when she saw the look in his eyes. But she couldn't help giggling again as he squished past her to turn off the water. Mere moments before the water shot out at him, Daniel remembered seeing some of the estate workers use it instead of pails to get water down to the lower parts of the lawn.

    "Eloise....this is not funny," he with controlled anger. He could not know that mud was splashed across him. Eloise tried to straighten her face. It was not possible. She burst out laughing anyway and collapsed to the ground. Seeing her usually neatly pressed husband in such disarray was most enjoyable. Daniel pulled her up into a tight embrace in reprisal. Eloise was taken aback until she realised his intention was to give her a dose of the same.

    "No! Daniel!!! I'm getting all wet!!!" She started to hit him to make him let her go. After he was sure she had had enough, he released her. Eloise stepped back a few paces to keep out of his reach.

    "Daniel!!" she gasped. "What did you do that for? I'm sorry I laughed...you just looked so...so...funny...." She dissolved into giggles and sank to the ground again. "Where's your sense of humour?" Eloise realised that she had never laughed at her husband before. And neither had been so carefree in many years.

    "I have not lost it," Daniel said defensively as he sat down next to her. "I just feel...." he searched for the right word. "Unrestrained. There are no demands on me here. No deadlines. No business that must be taken care of. It's nice." Eloise gazed into his twinkling eyes. "And I have never seen you look so...so..."

    "Sodden?" she finished helpfully.

    "No...more like.....appealing," Daniel said thoughtfully. "Remember the old swimming hole.....just after we were married...." He slid his arm around her.

    "Daniel..." she protested. "We are out of doors. People might see us." Her words fell on deaf ears as he kissed her.


    Reluctantly Catrin left the warm bed to get dressed. She sleepily walked into the dressing room to see that the clothing she had chosen for today was not there. When she began pulling open wardrobe doors, there was nothing but dust and cobwebs. When she lifted the trunk lid, there were her jeans, denim shirt and boots.

    "Have these been here the entire time?" She was certain she had searched high and low over the time they had been there. Surely I would have found them before???

    Catrin ran back to wake Hamish. He rolled over and mumbled something unintelligible.

    "Hamish!" She pushed him. He reached out and pulled her down next to him.

    "Just a few more minutes," he whispered. "Stay and keep me warm."

    Catrin felt something tickle her cheek. Hamish snuggled up to hold her. It only took a moment for her to feel completely at home in her current position. She even felt lulled to sleep when she remembered. "Hamish!" The force of her sitting upright sprawled him on his back.

    "What...do....you...want?" He scrambled about to get under the warm blankets. "I'm tired. You know why...I'm going back to sleep." He shivered. "And who let the fire go out? Where is Denton? He should have been in to see to the coals." Finally Hamish looked around. "What the bloody hell is happening?" Everything was dust covered and the sheets they had removed from the furniture lay on the bed.

    Catrin smiled. "You used the same phrase when we woke up in this house before. Did we have identical dreams?" She looked around. "Oh no...the miniature you gave me! I wanted to keep it. If only I'd known....." She was close to tears. "Um...I found my jeans and stuff. Are yours nearby?"

    Hamish looked around. "Yeah...over on that chair. Funny though, I thought I kept them on when we went to sleep. Maybe it wasn't a dream...either that or..."

    "What?" Catrin pleaded.

    "Or we have had so much to drink we don't remember.....certain things." Why did that possibility make him feel sad?


    Chapter 6, Part B

    Posted on 17 February, 2001

    The door sprang open almost before Hamish touched it. He stepped back, now certain their time in the past was finished.

    Catrin took a step toward the dark stairway, then remembered something. She giggled.

    "What?" Hamish couldn't believe she found this funny.

    "Oh, I just remembered something from a movie I like..a song." Hamish raised his eyebrows waiting for her to continue. "Didja eva have the feelin' that ya wanted ta stay? And still have da feelin' that ya wanted ta go?" she paused to see if he knew.

    Hamish searched his memory. It was familiar. He hummed for a moment. "Started ta go...changed your mind," he said hesitantly.

    Catrin nodded and joined in. "Started ta go again and changed yer mind again...." she smiled. "Yeah, that's how I feel...I want to go back, but being here has been..."

    "A learning experience," Hamish interjected thoughtfully as they slowly started down the stairs.

    Catrin looked at him and nodded. She wanted to take his hand to feel his reassuring strength, but it suddenly seemed odd.

    Hamish, too, wanted to reenter their world linked to this woman he cared much about, but he held back.

    They were nearly pushed through the hidden door. When it shut behind them, all traces disappeared. Funny, though, thought Catrin. I could have sworn I heard footsteps running up. As we came down.....

    In front of them were the same people they had toured the house with. It looked as though they had returned to the precise place and time they had left. Or had the others been frozen in time? Hamish was staring at the painting, openmouthed. As she followed his gaze, Catrin disbelieved what she saw at first. After shaking her head, she realised it was true. Now there were five children where there had previously been only four. The guide was nattering on about the close-knit family. And the curious way the estate had been deeded to daughters in the line, not sons.

    Now another portrait claimed her attention. Catrin immediately recognised it and reminisced. A portrait painter had appeared at the door one day, travelling through the county. When he called at the house, he was initially turned away, but caught Catrin's attention. She at first wanted a family portrait, but then decided she preferred just the kids, as a special memento of their recovery. This was done at the same time as the miniature of Hamish she thought with a pang.

    Now, as Catrin looked at the painting, her throat constricted with emotion. She choked back a sob which caused Hamish to look at her with concern. He saw her eyes fill with tears. She looked at him and headed toward a far window. He waited for a moment, then started after her.

    "Oh, Dr. Evringham!" came unwanted interference.

    Bugger! Hamish turned to see the tour guide bearing down on him.What does she want?

    "Someone has been injured. Could you come and see to it?" She trilled.

    "Of course," he looked uncertainly at Catrin's back. "You lead the way." Since the guide already had a firm hold of Hamish's arm, there was no doubt of that.

    Catrin heard all this and looked round. Sounds exactly like Mrs. Bennet, she grimaced. Typically poor timing, too. The painting caught her eye again. This time she could not stop the tears.

    "I knew these people. There's Daniel, Hannah, Ellen and sweet little Maria," Catrin sniffed. "They were alive...I held them and played with them and now......now they have lived whole lives and been dead for centuries." She put her head on the glass to feel the coolness. "Just a few hours ago I was pulling Ellen out of a tree." It took a few moments to compose herself again. When she left the room, Catrin did walk past the group and Hamish as he assisted the injured person. There was a frail lady standing off to one side. Catrin did not notice as the old eyes followed her across the room and out the door.

    Hamish and Catrin did not have any more time to discuss their experience. Each were pulled away in a different direction of the house. Throughout the rest of the tour, they had no chance to speak together.


    It was the red-head who had tripped and wrenched her ankle. Hamish could tell that it wasn't even sprained. She seemed, though, to be oohing and aahing over his every touch. When he looked at her, she seemed hard...cold...there was no softness about her, no liveliness in her eyes, just determination. And it was not attractive to him anymore.

    How could I have been interested in such a person? Hamish asked himself, for the hundredth time. He helped her to stand, but she insisted on needing his arm to walk. There were others more eager than he, but she would not be deterred.

    Hamish stopped as they walked past the library. He walked in while the appendage on his arm protested. Over by the desk, something on the shelves behind caught his attention.

    "Ohmigosh...he did it," Hamish said to himself.

    "Who did what?" the red-head pouted.

    Hamish peeled her hand off his arm. "Nothing...doesn't matter," he reached over and ran his hand across the book spines.

    By now the red-head wasn't interested in following Hamish around, much to his relief. I feel so odd...and out of place, but strangely at home...I can't even describe it. Unsettled maybe? Hamish roamed through the house finding a room where he saw a set of books identical to the ones in the library. This set had been well-used, but cared for. That proves it....no way is this just a coincidence. I guess it really did happen.


    Catrin entered a room where there was clothing on display. And remembered wearing one of the dresses. There was some clothing Hamish had worn, in addition to a neckcloth and hat. Catrin could tell because there was a slight mark on a lapel (though she did smile at how it got there). Daniel's kneebritches and his coat so like his father's and the girls' dresses that are miniatures of mine.....I mean, their mother's.


    When they left, it had stopped raining, so the group was able to visit the gardens. Catrin was surprised at how well they had been kept up over the centuries. Wisteria still climbed the walls of many gardens. The tour guide still talked of this tree and that flower, but Catrin heard none of it. She walked on as if in a trance, smelling this flower, touching that bush, until they rounded a hedge and she saw the massive oak tree. Below it was the familiar bench where she had held Hannah after the little girl had skinned her knee. The portrait of the children had been done here as well.

    The gatehouse held a small gift shop that Catrin had not noticed before. She walked through it in a daze until seeing some postcards of the paintings that hung in the gallery. She bought a few as keepsakes. When she was paying for them, she impulsively bought a book that told the estate's history and involvement with the surrounding towns.


    Catrin boarded the coach first and took a seat in the rear. She wanted time to contemplate the recent events. Did it really happen? Was it just a wishful dream? Had she and Hamish really.....? She sighed for no good reason and put her head against the window. There was a welcome breeze carrying the scent of the meadow wet from rain. She closed her eyes.

    Some time later, the others boarded with much noise and movement. The group filled most of the seats again. Just as they got settled, the coach began to lurch down the road. Catrin tried to shut out the chattering of the other passengers. Her recent time in an era of less noise had left her unaccustomed to so many voices at once. A familiar hand covered hers where it rested on the seat. Catrin turned hers over and held on tightly lest this be a dream as well.

    But it wasn't a dream...as Catrin realised when a small package was held before her. Her breath caught in a gasp as she recognised the wrapping. She closed her eyes for a moment to make sure it was not her imagination. Sure enough, when she opened them, the package still lay in the so familiar hand.

    Hamish released her hand. As she recognised the shape when unwrapping it, she felt tears prick her eyes and turned her face away.

    "I gave it to you. Now it's where it belongs," Hamish whispered the words close to her.

    Overcome, Catrin looked up at him, tears now brimming. "B-but how...when?" were the only words she could form.

    "Remember where you last saw it?" he prompted. "Yesterday on the mantle in the south sitting room?" Catrin nodded. "It was there.....still....." he paused. "After all this time,......but it didn't belong.....now it's home."

    Continued in next section



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