The Potter's Lady Read Online Free PDF Page B

greenware.
    “The kiln crew loads the saggers into the kilns for the bisque firing. After the bisque firing, the kiln drawers remove the ware from the saggers and transfer it to ware baskets that are then taken to the bisque warehouse. No need to go to the kilns. I doubt your sister would appreciate the excessive heat.” He turned to look at Ewan. “Would you like to visit the warehouses or continue to the glazing and decorating rooms?”
    “’Tis getting a wee bit late in the afternoon. I’m thinking it might be best if we return tomorrow to complete the tour and go over the books. I know Rose is quite interested in the decorating, and I don’t want to rush through the remainder of our visit.” Ewan arched his brows. “Unless it is inconvenient for you, Mr. Bancock.”
    Mr. Bancock straightened his shoulders. “Whatever you prefer, Mr. McKay. I want to make sure you have time to see everything before you make any decision. I believe this to be the finest pottery in the entire state, but you must decide whether it is where you wish to invest your money. If it’s God’s plan for you to be here, I know it will happen.”
    Ewan extended his hand to the older man. “What you say is true. I, too, am a man who believes God directs my path.”

    After Ewan had assured Mr. Bancock they would return at nine the following morning, Rose grasped her brother’s arm. The two of them picked their way through the drying mud and crossed the railroad tracks before Rose looked up at her brother.
    She wasn’t certain if he was merely tired or if he’d been disappointed with their visit to the pottery. Years ago it would take only a glance, and she’d know Ewan’s mood, but she’d been away from him too long, and there had been many changes in both of their lives. The frequent teasing and pranks at school had trained Rose to hide her emotions. She imagined that Ewan had learned to hide his, as well. Maintaining his temper while coping with Aunt Margaret and the operation of the brickyard had likely honed Ewan’s ability.
    They’d walked the short distance to the hotel and were entering the front door when she squeezed his arm. “You’re very quiet. I’m eager to hear your impressions of the pottery.”
    “I do na think it’s fair to compare the brickyard and pottery until our visit is complete and I examine the books.” A hint of Ewan’s brogue laced his comment. “I have a feeling Mr. Bancock is keen to sell.” Rose arched her brows as Ewan directed her toward the dining room. “Let’s have our supper before we go to our rooms. The weight of this decision is heavy on my soul. Once I go upstairs, I want to spend time in prayer before I go to bed.”
    She would have preferred a late supper but didn’t complain. While Ewan had gone to call on Mr. Trent and visit his brickyard earlier in the day, Rose had remained at the hotel and relaxed. She waited to speak until they were seated and had both ordered the evening special of lamb chops and roasted potatoes.
    After giving her linen napkin a quick shake and spreading it across her lap, she leaned forward. “Did you find Mr. Trent indifferent?”
    “Nay. Why do you ask?”
    “You said Mr. Bancock appeared eager to sell, so I wondered if Mr. Trent had been uninterested when you were at the brickyard.” She swallowed a sip of water. “I didn’t find Mr. Bancock particularly forceful.”
    A waiter stepped forward and poured their coffee before moving to the next table. Ewan poured cream into his cup and stirred. “He was not forceful, but I sensed urgency in his behavior. Did you not notice how he looked at Rylan when we arrived? There was something that passed between them. Mr. Bancock was doing his best to hide his disapproval, and Rylan acted apologetic, yet I’m not sure why.” He lifted his coffee cup.
    “You saw all of that? No wonder you’re weary.” She giggled. “I merely thought Mr. Bancock was worried because we were late for our appointment. Perhaps