Vitrella Vanderton's Letter To Her Husband

“A long and arduous journey indeed!” Miss Vitrella Vanderholm agreed dramatically, “it is likely to be the death of a poor, old woman such as me, but for this respite of your tent.” She was always pleased when preachers orated upon the pitfalls of sinners and how miscreants would burn in the holy fires of hell. Holding her chin up, she was proud that she led a seemingly and forthwith life. God had blessed her indeed! Wrinkled fingers withdrew a small, richly embroidered pouch from her pocket. Taking four gold coins, more than she thought anyone else had given, Vitrella pressed them into the Preacher’s palm. “For your good work, Mr. Pickett. Heaven help those misguided souls. We all must do what we can.” She was not above helping her own soul …show more content…
As I have said,” courtesies and etiquette were of the utmost concern to the aged woman. “Do you know of Garden Estates then?” Her rummy blue eyes studied the man closer. “Have you spent time there? I do not recognize you. How I miss the orchestras and the balls. You must be a good man indeed to have traveled so far from that privilege.” Her nose wrinkled, “I have heard of the cruelty of the savages, and their lack of clothing. Disgraceful! Though I dare say… the populace of this town looks no better. Such is the dire need of your services, I assume.” Condescending and proud, Vitrella snorted regally. “I cannot fathom how you stand it.” She fanned herself theatrically, as only the very wealthy might. The embroidered bag swung from her wrist …show more content…
The train ride is dreadful, what they consider first class is abysmal. Why in Philadelphia, oh! I cannot begin to expound upon the differences between here and there. But you understand, you have been there after all. And poor Mirella! The dear child! Her parents, my youngest brother actually is somewhat of a free spirit.” A look of disgust crossed her face and wrinkled her brow. “God look after him! Do you know he dragged his wife along? Across the land to California, for prospecting, of all things.” Vitrella shook her head. “Why he could not remain content at his law office, which was very prosperous I assure you, I will never understand. Still, he has written of grand success in his endeavors and now wishes to have his daughter join them in San Francisco. I would prefer the girl stay with me; I do not think it wise for her to be traversing the globe upon whims.” The aged woman spoke on, assuming the preacher had all the time in the world to listen to her tirade.

Her voice tired not, and remained bold in its volume. “My niece is impressionable and naive. I fear for her. To travel alone among the uneducated and unkempt… each town is worse than the one before. The atrocities I have seen! I keep a close watch, if Mirella should take after her father, in rebelliousness, I dare say God would strike me down! I cannot allow her freedom, and there is no gentleman to accompany us. Alas, I must continue onward. It is my duty as a God fearing woman. Wouldn’t