Read Online A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino - Free Book Online Page B

New England, actually the New World in general.
    Jeremy looked from one brother to the other. “At least the war with Spain and France seems to have ended, but now the cost of food climbs and timber is hard to find. London needs more coal. I can tell you, the New World has thick forests and game aplenty. The ship industry is flourishing and I intend to be a part of it. I may never settle there—someone must care for our parents, of course—but I will be sailing there someday. I want to take part in the trade that is already developing.”
    â€œVery well—I can see you do have an opinion.” Barnabas chuckled and stood. “There is much to talk about. For now, brothers, I do thank you for your support and advice.”
    His brothers stood with him and the three gave each other bear hugs.
    Jeremy held his shoulders. “We will be there for you, Barn. Let me know if there is anything you require of me.”
    â€œMe as well, Barn. I will talk to Father for you, if you like.”
    â€œHe is watching the boys with Mother. They already know what is on my mind. Differences aside, we have the most wonderful parents. They both support me in my decision.”
    The brothers trudged back to the house. Barnabas regarded his younger brother with one brow raised. “Have you told Father about your intentions of going to New England?”
    â€œNay. He need not know yet. I will wait until I have word from William. I do not know how Father will react. He takes it somewhat in stride that you and Jeremy will someday make the journey. I don’t believe he will be happy to know I intend to do the same.”
    â€œThe information will not come from me, brother. You tell him when you are ready.”
    They pounded each other’s back in farewell and Barnabas mounted his horse. At least the ride home would be short.
    Entering the kitchen he shrugged out of his coat and hung it with his hat on a peg. His parents sat with the boys, telling stories at the old oak table. He tousled each boy’s hair before taking a seat near Benjamin. His son’s chubby finger traced the initial Joseph had scratched into the table just a year earlier.
    â€œYour mother saved you from a whipping that day, eh, Joseph? She scratched the heart around the J you made and told Benjamin he could do the same when he learned to write a B .”
    Joseph’s eyes grew large. “Benjamin, you always try to get me in trouble.”
    â€œDo not.”
    â€œDo too, you baby.”
    â€œBoys, enough. You are forgiven, Joseph. You know that.Your mother always knew the right thing to do, and she loved you very much. I pray thee, apologize to your grandparents. They do not enjoy listening to your quarrels.”
    Grandmother Horton stood up as if to gather the boys under her like a hen. “Now, boys, everything is fine. We have had such fun today. Barnabas, do you have any of the ginger cakes? I think a treat is in order.”
    He rose to fetch the cakes, glad to allow his mother to relieve him of his duty to discipline for the moment and noticed as she turned to Benjamin, a kind smile on her face. “Do you think you are old enough to learn a B for Benjamin?” she asked.
    Wide-eyed, he sat up as tall as he could. “Yes, Grandmother, I want to.”
    Barnabas returned with the cakes and took one before passing the bowl to his mother. He attempted a stern look at her. “What are you up to?”
    She carefully removed a little cake for her grandsons. “Yours look even better than mine, crisp and tender.” She started with a compliment.
    He cocked his head toward her. Something was coming, he knew her ways.
    â€œI’m thinking if Benjamin may add his initial, it might bring closure to Joseph’s misdeed. I would be happy to add the heart.” She looked at her son imploringly.
    â€œAye. Let’s bring closure.” He nodded to his mother and turned to his father as they bent to