The English Descendants

38

1896- Entry 1

I am twenty-nine. I am in Milan. I am fervently praying to a god I do not know (but who seems to be quite fond of Italy, if sculpture, architecture, and the prevalence of churches is any indication) that there will be no more bodies in the mines. Lucille has been making the rounds as a society woman, her striking red dress attracting attention wherever she lands. She is beautiful, that is true, but she is beautiful as a spider is. It is frightening, really, to see how easily she blends herself into her surroundings. I do hold some admiration for my sister, in particular for her skills of adaptation. Were she not so broken, she could be brilliant. Perhaps she would study chemistry, or medicine, if she allowed it. Her mind is at least as sharp as mine, if not moreso.

1896- Entry 2

Once again, the banks have denied my request.

Enola Sciotti. Vibrant. Boisterous. She has little family, but a large circle of friends. She is well loved. We will court over a series of months and marry in the late summer so that we arrive in England just as the snow begins to fall.

This girl is intriguing. She is more intellectual than either Pamela or Margaret were. Perhaps Lucille is looking for intelligent female company, at least for a short time? While Enola is not so much interested in the details of mining, when I told her of Allerdale Hall's library, she was curious in a way most are not. I find myself attracted to her, at least as a friend.

This could be a dangerous match. God help the both of us.

1896- Entry 3

We have arrived home. Lucille had the fires ready when we disembarked. For the third time, I carried a woman over the threshold, but this time, she is my friend. Her little dog nipped at my heels. He is an amusing creature, though one I am sure Lucille disapproves of.

The hole in the ceiling horrified her. She questioned why we did not have it repaired, but I explained that it was nearly impossible, thanks to the weather, and Lucille could not bear to leave the house, so we stay. The mines being our business, it would also be impractical to go anywhere else. I do not think the answer satisfied her, but she was so enthralled by the library that I do think she forgot her reservations about living in Allerdale Hall. Of course, according to Lucille, she won't be living here long at all.

1896- Entry 4

Lucille is pregnant.

She has considered ending it, but also wants very much to meet this child. She calls it a perfect symbol of our perfect love. Soon, it will be very hard to conceal this from Enola. I do not know how we are going to explain Lucille's pregnancy to her. It is not as though Lucille leaves the house or sees other men.

I know Lucille hopes to kill her before she has to explain anything, but Enola is bright and healthy and the tea seems to be taking longer to grab hold. I hope this continues. I do not want to see her die. She is refreshing, after the dark days we have had.