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only three days after returning to Lowell. He went on to mention that she hasn’t been present at recent social functions.’’
    ‘‘I don’t think his comment is indicative of anything worrisome. They simply may not be invited to the same social events,’’ Samuel concluded.
    ‘‘But what if she is dying and you ignore her plea? How could you ever live with such a decision?’’ Madelaine argued, much to Jasmine’s surprise.
    ‘‘So you think I should immediately heed to her bidding?’’
    Malcolm asked.
    ‘‘I think you should give serious consideration to making the journey,’’ Madelaine replied. ‘‘I could hardly live with myself if something were to happen and you missed being in her attendance because of my poor constitution.’’
    Malcolm rose from the sofa and prowled about the room like a cat searching for the perfect place to curl and rest. ‘‘And who would run The Willows during such a long absence? Leaving at this time of year isn’t wise. What if we couldn’t return in time for the first picking? I’ve never been gone from the plantation during any part of picking season.’’
    ‘‘Really, Malcolm! Only a few minutes ago you were attempting to persuade me to travel to White Sulphur Springs.’’
    ‘‘That is not even close to the same thing. We could certainly return home from there before first picking. A journey to Massachusetts will take much longer. And it’s already late June.’’
    ‘‘What about the three of us?’’ Samuel asked. ‘‘Do we not assist in the management of the plantation? Surely we could tend to matters while you’re gone.’’
    ‘‘Absolutely,’’ McKinley said while David nodded his agreement.
    Madelaine graced her husband with a winsome smile. ‘‘You see, you have already resolved that issue. And if a problem of consequence should arise during your absence, your brothers would be close at hand to lend assistance. After all, with adjoining plantations— Harry on one side and Franklin on the other—there would be scant possibility of the boys needing any further support.’’
    ‘‘Could it be that you would consider making the journey with us?’’ Malcolm inquired, a hint of expectation lacing his question.
    ‘‘You know my affliction makes travel impossible. I’m merely pointing out that I would not be averse to you and Jasmine making the journey. After all, there are few plantation owners who would find themselves in such excellent circumstances if they needed to be away for a substantial period of time. We both know that many of the plantation owners leave for the entire summer with no one other than an overseer in charge.’’
    ‘‘Well, they can manage their businesses as they see fit, but I’ll not leave my plantation to the hands of an overseer for months on end. Even with my sons and brothers to take charge, I’ve no intent on being gone for a substantial period of time. If I agree to travel north, I will make every effort to return prior to harvest. It’s difficult enough to consider leaving the boys in charge at this time; much more so during picking season.’’
    ‘‘I understand your concerns, Malcolm, but you will give the journey consideration, won’t you? It causes me great distress to think of your mother alone and ailing.’’
    ‘‘I’ll give the matter thought. If you would agree to accompany us, I would be willing to make immediate preparations. You know I’d go to almost any length to get you away from The Willows for a short time. It distresses me that you continue to seek refuge within the walls of this house, my dear. It’s not healthy.’’
    Jasmine immediately took up her father’s argument. ‘‘Oh, do say you’ll come, Mother.’’
    Madelaine dropped her gaze toward her lap and began picking at the lace edging on her linen handkerchief. ‘‘I couldn’t possibly travel to Massachusetts. And I do go outdoors—every day. I love tending the flowers in my gardens. Truly, my desire to