Tracie Peterson - A Surrendered Heart

Dedication

To Dale and Frank Hubbell
for their ongoing friendship and
willingness to lend a helping hand
whenever needed.

Judith Miller

Contents

Wednesday, April 26, 1899
Rochester, New York

CHOLERA ON THE RISE! EPIDEMIC ANTICIPATED IN ROCHESTER!

Amanda Broadmoor glanced at the imprudent headline that emblazoned last nights edition of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. Why must the newspaper exaggerate? People would be frightened into a genuine panic with such ill-advised news reporting. Turning the headline to the inside, she creased the paper and slipped it beneath a stack of mail on the marble-topped table in the lower hallway of her familys fashionable home. Certain this most recent newspaper article would cause yet another family squabble, she had hidden the paper in her bedroom the previous evening.

No doubt the glaring headline had increased sales for the owner of the press. The paper had been quick to report four recent deaths attributed to the dreaded disease, and with an early spring and unrelenting rains, a number of prominent families had already fled the city. After yesterdays report, more would surely follow. And for those who didnt possess the wherewithal to flee, the report would serve no purpose but to heighten their fear.

Of course the Broadmoors were among the social elite of Rochester, New York. Amanda had never known need or want, and when bad things dared to rear their ugly heads, she had been carefully sheltered from the worst of it. All that had changed, however, when she decided to seek a career in medicine.

At twenty-one, Amanda felt she had the right to make her own way in life, but her father and mother hardly saw it that way. Their attitudes reflected those of their peers and the world around them. Women working in the medical field were highly frowned upon, and a woman of Amandas social standing was reared to marry and produce heirs, not to tend the sick. Especially not those suffering from cholera.

And Mama can be such an alarmist.

At the first report Amandas mother had suggested the entire family take refuge at their summer estate located on Broadmoor Island in the St. Lawrence River. But that idea had been immediately vetoed by her father. Jonas Broadmoor had avowed his work would not permit him to leave Rochester. And Amanda agreed with her fathers decision. After devoting much of her time and energy to medical training at Dr. Carsteads side, Amanda couldnt possibly desert her worknot nownot when she was most needed.

Amanda glanced at the clock. Her mother would expect her for breakfast, but remaining any longer would simply ensure a tearful plea for her to cease working with Dr. Carstead. She would then need to offer a lengthy explanation as to why her work was critical, and that in turn would cause a tardy arrival at the Home for the Friendless. Before the matter could be resolved, much valuable time would be wasted, time that could be used to care for those in need of her ministrations. With each newspaper claim, an argument ensued, leaving Amanda to feel she must betray either her mother or Dr. Carstead. She didnt feel up to a quarrel today.

After fastening her cloak, she tucked a strand of blond hair beneath her bonnet and slipped into the kitchen, where the carriage driver was finishing his morning repast. Do hurry, she said, motioning toward the door. Im needed at the Home.

He downed a final gulp of coffee, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and nodded. The carriage is ready and waiting. He quickstepped to the east side of the kitchen and opened the door with a flourish. His broad smile revealed a row of uneven teeth. You see? Always prepared. Thats my motto.

An excellent motto, though sometimes difficult to achieve, Amanda said, pleased to discover the rain had ceased.

She hurried toward the carriage, the driver close on her heels. Her own attempts to be prepared seemed to fall short far too often. Since beginning her study of medicine with Dr. Carstead, shed made every effort to anticipate his needs, but it seemed he frequently requested an item shed never before heard of, a medical instrument other than what she offered, or a bandage of a different width. Amanda was certain her inadequate choices sometimes annoyed him. However, he held his temper in checkat least most of the time.

Did you read todays headline? the driver asked before closing the carriage door.

Amanda nodded. Indeed. Thats why we must hurry. Im afraid there will be many at the clinic doors this morning. Sometimes simply hearing about an illness causes people to fear theyve contracted it. A sense of exhaustion washed over her just thinking about the work ahead.

The driver grimaced. I know what you mean, miss. I read the article in the paper and then wondered if I was suffering some of the symptoms myself.

Have you been having difficulty with your digestive organs?

At the mention of his digestive organs, the color heightened in the drivers cheeks. He glanced away and shook his head.

No, but I had a bit of a headache yesterday, and thought I was a bit thirstier than usual.

Its likely nothing, but if you begin to experience additional symptoms, be sure to come and see the doctor. Dont wait too long.

Still unable to meet her gaze, he touched his finger to the brim of his hat. Thank you for your concern, miss. Ill heed your advice.