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Sister Francis was first on call today. The early morning was quiet and she found herself remembering those first tentative months. She had encountered so many different people and situations during her time in Poplar. She felt she had grown in faith as a nun and in confidence as a nurse and midwife. She thanked God for sending her to this community whose love and support she cherished. Nonnatus House felt like home.
The phone rang. She picked up the hand piece before it could wake the house.
"Nonnatus House, midwife speaking." she answered. She heard noises in the background. "Hello?"
"Sister, it's Mickey, Mrs. O'Connor's boy. She's screamin' somethn' awful . I've been tryin to get her to stop. Ya gotta come, Sister!" Sister Francis could hear Mrs. O'Connor in the background.
" Is anyone else there, Mickey? Did you call your Aunt to come sit with you?" Sister Julienne had talked to Mr. O'Connor about having their Aunt stay with them fearing the labor may go quickly since this was their sixth child.
"No, it's just me and Ma, please hurry. I told my mate I would be there today. I don't wanna stay here listening to her screamin. Heard enough of that last time." Mickey sounded frightened and desperate..
" I'm on my way. Try to stay calm. I'll be there soon." Sister Francis hung up the phone. She wrote the information in the log book, got her bag, and rushed to the bike shelter. She rode quickly over the cobbled streets. The O'Connor flat was in an older part of Poplar. She hadn't been in the area often but had visited Mrs. O'Connor a few times during her pregnancy. She arrived within fifteen minutes. She leaned her bicycle against the wall and grabbed her bag. Mickey met her at the door.
"She's been screamin off and on for bout an hour. I'm going to my mates. Da's at the factory.", with that he left.
Sister Francis went to the back room. Mrs. O'Connor gave her a smile, "Good to see ya sister. I'm glad I got you. Havin' no one but the lad around was wearin me down. Men been causing me trouble for nigh on eighteen years. Wasn't expecting to be caught out at my age, yet here we are. Hopefully, the Good Lord will see fit to give me a girl this time."
" We'll soon find out. It looks like another O'Connor will be joining us today. You're doing very well." Sister Francis said after checking her over. "It's going to be a while though. The contractions are still fairly far apart. How about we walk a bit and then see where we are?"
Mrs. O'Connor looked at her like that was the worst thing she'd ever heard. She wasn't sure she could get herself up. Sister Francis helped her stand and supported her while they walked circles around the room. The contractions eventually started getting closer together. It had been hours since she first arrived. The pains became too much to keep standing. Sister Francis helped her back on the bed as the labor progressed quickly. Sister Francis was delighted to deliver a beautiful baby girl. She wrapped the baby in a clean towel and handed her over. Mrs. O'Connor's face was full of joy and wonder as she held her new baby. She had been waiting a long time for a daughter.
Sister Francis sat mother and child on a clean towel on a nearby stool. She put the soiled sheets and towels in the bag from the laundry service, then remade the bed with clean sheets from the maternity box. She gave the baby a short bath, put a nappy on, then placed her in the drawer that had been prepared. She gave Mrs. O'Connor a sponge bath then helped her into a clean nightgown. She settled the pair in the clean bed. She made sure everyone was presentable then went into the kitchen to put the kettle on for tea. Mickey was back.
"So, Ma' push out another boy" he didn't sound very happy about having another baby in the house.
"No, Mickey, you have a beautiful baby sister. Would you like to see her? Your Mom is ready for visitors. Are your brothers nearby?" He shook his head looking over her shoulder towards the bedroom.
"Na, all of em at school or work. Ain't much round here no more. Most of my mates have moved to the new housing blocks. Da is always working and Ma been busy bein pregnant. Can't do nothin' when she in the family way. I been working at the chemist's over near the hospital. You know, running prescriptions to the old folks. It's interesting work." He smiled to himself while he got some old bread out of the cabinet and some cups and saucers for tea from the counter. He filled the kettle then put it on the stove to heat.
"Well. I'm going to do some final checks and make sure she has everything she needs before I leave." Sister Francis watched him warily. He seemed to be lost in his thoughts.
Mrs. O'Connor was resting quietly looking over her newborn daughter. "One of us will pop in this evening or tomorrow morning to check on you and baby. Try to get some rest. Have Mickey call if you need anything." Sister Francis made sure all her instruments were returned to her bag, tidied up a little more, then walked toward the front door.
"Hey Sister, why don't you sit and have a cuppa? You've been here for hours now, A cuppa will do ya good. I'm sorry for not actin' right. I'd enjoy your company. Please, sister? I think Ma made a cake the other day. Please?" It was a generous offer and she was looking forward to a cup of tea. It had been a long labor. She nodded her head and smiled as he turned to gather the tea cups and kettle.
She sat at the table quietly drinking her tea. She hadn't realized how tired she was. It tasted a bit off to her but she had been served so many different teas during her time in Poplar..."maybe it's just the water" she thought as she slowly lost consciousness.
Sister Francis woke to a darkening day. She didn't remember leaving the O'Connor flat but she must have since she was obviously outside. "What? Where am I?" She could hear cars in a street nearby.
She was sitting against a dark wall in a narrow, hidden alley. Her head was pounding. She tried to get up using the wall behind her but her legs were shaking and her vision was distorted. She felt an urgent need to go home, she needed to be with her family, especially her sisters. She tried again, praying for strength. Finally, she was able to stand and keep her balance as long as her hand was on the wall. She took a deep breath and started walking towards the light at the end of the alley. Her bag had been left on some old boxes near the entrance. She picked it up and stumbled out onto the street. The O'Connor's flat was a few blocks down on the other side. She walked slowly toward it. Her bicycle should have been there against the wall. She looked up and down the street eventually seeing it partially hidden behind several waste bins. It seemed to have been moved but not damaged. She buckled her bag in its case and rolled the bike into the street. Leaning on it heavily, she realized she wasn't going to be able to ride it. Her vision was blurred and she was dizzy and nauseous. She started walking the bike and herself back to Nonnatus House. The streets were strangely dark and silent. The sun was almost down by the time she arrived. She dropped the bike by the steps and used all the energy she had left to climb the stairs. The door opened before she reached for the handle.
"Sister? We've been worried about you. Come in." Sister Julienne took in her appearance while she wrapped an arm around her shoulder and gently guided her into the entryway. "Sister, where have you been? Where is your bag?"
"I..I..don't know.. what happened?" Her vision was blurring more. "Sister? Why's it so dark in here. I was just... Mrs O'Connor's.... baby girl... tea...home...want to get home....I don't... It's so dark, sister."
Sister Julienne saw the moment her sister lost consciousness. She caught her and lowered her to the ground calling out for help. Sister Hilda and Phyllis ran down the stairs to them.
"Something is very wrong. She can't remember her day. She's disoriented and her breathing is shallow. Her pulse rate is very fast. Her sight seems effected. She asked why the entryway was dark. She didn't seem to know where she was before she lost consciousness." Sister Hilda sat on the floor and lifted her sister's head onto her lap. She removed her wimple and guimpe. Her cap was smudged with dirt. She felt her forehead then shook her head. She looked into Sister Julienne's eyes and saw worry and fear.
Sister Hilda shook Francis' shoulders roughly and tapped on her cheek. "Sister Francis, can you wake up for us. We need to get you up to your room."
Sister Francis blinked her eyes open, "Where am I? I don't remember. How did I get here. I want to go home." She started crying as her distress intensified.
"You are home." Sister Julienne said. "It's going to be alright. We've got you now. You are safe, Sister. Let's get you up to your room." Phyllis and Sister Hilda worked together to help Sister Francis stand. Her legs were shaking with the effort. They slowly climbed the stairs having to support most of her weight. The group was almost to her bedroom door when she stopped suddenly and moaned in pain. She bent over desperate to stop the intense pain running through her. She cried out loudly against it, tears streaming down her face. "Just a little farther, Sister." Sister Julienne encouraged, desperately trying to maintain her composure. Phyllis and Sister Hilda exchanged a worried glance as they lowered her onto the bed. Sister Francis was shaking violently as sweat poured down her face along with her tears. Phyllis gently wiped her face with her handkerchief. "I'll be downstairs if you need me," she said softly. With one last look, she carefully closed the door to give the sisters some privacy.
She went down the stairs and back to the parlor. The worried faces that greeted her were matched by her own. The intense cry of pain had been heard throughout the house. Phyllis sat heavily on the couch to wait. She couldn't help thinking about the last time one of their own had been hurt. She hoped this was an unfortunate accident or some sort of illness, but her years of experience were telling her it wasn't.
Trixie had to do something. Sister Francis reminded her too much of Mary Cynthia. "No. It couldn't happen again. There are safeguards now." she thought. She got up and went to the phone to call Dr. Turner, then went to the clinical room to collect a wash basin, flannels, and clean towels.
The sisters carefully removed the soiled habit. Sister Francis didn't help. She didn't move. Pain was consuming her as doubt and shame began to work their way into her mind, heart, and soul. Her sisters hands were gentle and helped her to calm a little. The door opened. Trixie entered quietly with the basin full of warm water and the flannels and towels held tightly against her side. She placed everything on the nightstand then left.
"Sister, we need you to stand for us. I'm sorry. I know it hurts. We'll get you some relief as soon as we can." Sister Julienne's voice was gentle.
The sisters worked together to help her stand then removed her slip and other garments. "Sister, we're going to put some towels on the bed, lay you down, and clean you up a bit." They worked together efficiently having done this for countless women. This, however, was something neither of them thought they would ever be doing.
Sister Francis did not speak to or look at either of them. They watched as she retreated further and further away from them. Her eyes still closed as tears fell down her pale face. Her entire body was shaking as the pain swept over her in waves.
"Sister, we're going to put your clean nightgown on. We will try not to move you anymore than necessary." They dressed her as if she was a small child, working the soft, loose fabric over her head then working each arm through the sleeves. "We're going to help you stand." They pulled the gown down the rest of the way. "There we are. All done. Let's get you tucked up in bed." Sister Hilda brushed out her hair then covered it with a clean cap. They helped her lay down as tears continued running down her face. " Here, Sister, you need to drink this. It's soluble aspirin. It should help dull the pain quickly. We can try something stronger if it doesn't." Sister Julienne lifted her head and pressed the glass to her lips. She drank the medicine then turned away from them and curled into a ball under the covers. She felt her sisters hands rubbing gentle circles on her back as she fell into a restless sleep.
Sister Julienne and Sister Hilda looked down on thier young sister. They could see tremors still running through her. They placed their hands on Francis' shoulder and prayed for healing:
"O God, the strength of the weak and the comfort of sufferers: Mercifully accept our prayers, and grant to your servant Francis. the help of your power, that her sickness may be turned into health, and our sorrow into joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen"
"I need to talk to the others," Sister Julienne whispered. " I will leave our sister in your capable hands for a while." Sister Hilda could see the struggle Julienne was having as she tried to compose herself. She knew how difficult anger was to master especially when the injury was to an innocent. She knelt by the bed to pray. Her faith strong and secured by the Lord's Grace and Mercy.
Julienne left the room, walked down the stairs, and went into the parlor. "Do we know if anyone checked on baby O'Connor?" She asked the group. " Not that I want anyone going over there alone." Her voice had a uncharacteristic edge of anger in it. "In fact, I don't want any of you going into any homes alone for the foreseeable future. I don't know what happened to Sister Francis. She has been.... I refuse to endanger any of you by sending you out alone. We live in an often brutal world. A world I do not trust or recognize at the moment. We must protect ourselves and each other as much as we are able."
"I checked the log book." Phyllis offered, "Sister Francis left Nonnatus House at seven this morning. There was a call from Mr. O'Connor at five asking when another midwife would check on his wife and baby. His son, Mickey, told him the baby was born around two. We all know how careful Sister Francis is about hygiene and cleanliness. She would have taken care of the baby and Mrs O'Connor, cleaned up everything, then started the kettle for tea. Her bag was in the rack of her bike. Her notes support everything we know so far. The baby was born at 2:10 pm. and weighed a bonny 7 lbs 8 oz. The labor was long but uncomplicated. Mother and baby were tucked up by 3:15 pm. They should be fine until tomorrow, after all, this is her sixth. I restocked the sister's bag and put the instruments in the autoclave. I also moved her bicycle to its place in the shelter."
"Yet, Sister Francis didn't arrive here until near dark. That's at least two hours that her whereabouts are unknown. It all feels too familiar. Sister Mary Cynthia never worried about being hurt by anyone while working in the community we serve. She stopped to pray. A nun stopped to pray. To lift her voice to the Lord because she felt his Love calling her! She was savagely beaten by a crazed sailor who had attacked two other women. She showed great strength when she reported her assault to the police.
Sister Francis went to a house I have visited often myself. She can not remember anything that happened to her...She is..she is suffering... She..." Sister Julienne had seen too much evil during her life. Her faith in the power of love usually carried her through. But this might be too much. Her hands were shaking as she tried to reign in her anger and grief. They didn't think she realized she was crying until her hand came up to wipe at the tears running down her cheeks. She turned on her heel, walked into the chapel, knelt down, and started praying. Her faith in God's love an anchor in the storm of anger and despair coursing through her.
,
She felt her elder sister's arm wrap around her shoulders. "Our young sister will need our strength and prayers. She knows how much she is loved, Sister. God the Father will comfort her in her despair just as He has comforted you. Your anger is justified; however, you know His love is stronger and will carry you through the storm. It will carry Sister Francis as well. Her faith is strong. Evil will never triumph as long as our faith in Christ perseveres. John 3:16 is written in your heart but I'll quote it just in case your despair has overtaken you: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." You have lived in this knowledge every day of your life." Sister Monica Joan's knowing words helped calm the raging storm within her. She leaned into her sister's side and put her head on her shoulder.
"I know He holds her in His hands. I know her faith can sustain her. But, Sister Francis has been hurt in a much more personal way than Sister Mary Cynthia. She has no memory of what happened but her body knows. She was in agony physically but the worse injury is to her heart and mind. I saw the color of shame flame on her cheeks. She will not speak and has not opened her eyes since we brought her to her room. We must help her understand and believe that she has done nothing wrong, that she is innocent, and that God has not forsaken her."
The quiet conversation came to an end at the light tapping on the door frame. "Sister Julienne, Dr. Turner is here. Do you want to speak with him in your office?" Trixie's voice was a whisper.
"Yes. tell him I'll be there in a moment." She stood then helped her sister stand. "You really should have brought one of the chairs over, Sister. Kneeling isn't as easy for either of us as it once was." they smiled softly at each other. "Are you going back to the parlor to sit with the others?"
"No," replied Monica Joan, "I will go sit vigil with our sisters. I will add my prayers to theirs." She slowly ascended the stairs to Sister Francis' room.
Sister Julienne walked to her nearby office. "Hello, Dr. Turner. Thank you for coming out so late. I apologize for taking you away from your family this evening."
"Not at all, Sister. You know I am always available to you. You do have me concerned, however. A nighttime request is unusual especially one that's so secretive. How can I help?" Patrick waited.
"Sister Francis was gone all day. No one saw her leave but she left notes in the log book. It is not unusual for one of us to be out most of a day, especially if we are called early during the first stage. However, she had not returned or requested backup by late afternoon. I was about to get my bag and go check on her when I heard a noise outside. She was at the door when I opened it. She seemed unsteady and confused. Her clothing was soiled. I helped her into the entryway. She could not remember where she had been. Her eyes were glazed and unfocused. I saw them roll back as she collapsed. I caught her then called for help. Sister Hilda and Nurse Crane helped her to her room. She doubled over in pain as we reached the doorway. She was disoriented and seemed to fold into herself. Sister Hilda and I removed her habit and other clothing. She followed our instructions but did nothing to help. She did not speak. As we removed her slip, it became clear she had suffered an attack of a personal nature. We, sister Hilda and I, cleaned her, dressed her, and put her to bed. Sister Hilda and Sister Monica Joan are sitting with her." Sister Julienne watched as horror, anger and compassion flashed across his face.
"I will not allow any of my sisters or nurses to go anywhere alone for the foreseeable future. I have never been as angry as I am right now. Two of my sisters have been targets of brutal attacks. My sisters, Patrick!. Mary Cynthia and Francis share similar qualities. They are both very young and have been sheltered and protected by loving parents. But, most importantly, they both chose to become nuns. They chose a life of service to our Lord and our community. Nuns, Patrick, who are supposedly untouchable and protected because they bestow the grace of service to a community in need. They should be cherished! Instead one was beaten so badly she ended up in Northfield suffering from depression and the other has been, has been....." She could not continue. Tears of anger and grief poured down her face again as she tried to come to terms with the injustice visited on her young sister today.
Patrick was horrified. The attack on Mary Cynthia had been brutal and so emotionally damaging she suffered a flashback while on duty. Sister Ursala had not helped the situation and had placed efficiency over compassion. Mary Cynthia had been spirited away during the night and taken to the Mother House. Somehow, she had ended up in the Lynchmere to be brutalized again by England's archaic mental health system. Thankfully, she had been found and moved to the therapeutic hospital in Northfield. Now this. "I am so very sorry sister. Do you want me to try to talk to Sister Francis? I'm not sure she would want me near her. You said she was disoriented and unsteady. It sounds like she could have been drugged, as far fetched as that sounds. I just can't imagine someone doing this to her. Did she tell you anything about her day?"
"She was in such a fragile state. She was barely able to speak at all. She hasn't said a word since we got her to her room. Perhaps you should look in on her. Seeing how she reacts to you may help us know where we stand." Julienne dried her face with her handkerchief and stood bidding Dr. Turner to follow her.
She opened the door quietly. Her sisters were sitting together with their hands joined in prayer. Sister Francis was on her side staring at the open door with tears streaming down her face. She met Sister Julienne's eyes then turned back into her pillow trying to hide from the shame and pain building in her heart. Her body shook with silent sobs.
Patrick got a chair from the hall and sat himself a bit further away from the bed than he normally would. "Hello sister." She nodded without looking at him. "Can I check you over?" Another silent nod. He reached for her wrist to check her pulse. It was elevated but not dangerously so. " Sister, can you sit up so I can check your heart and lungs." She hesitated then nodded again. She tried to move herself into a seated position but the white hot pain was too much. She collapsed back onto the pillow, her breathing fast and shallow. Sister Julienne helped her sit up using her own body as leverage. Sister Francis leaned heavily into her sister's shoulder and grasped her hand like a lifeline. "Is it okay for me to check your heart and lungs? I'll need to check both sides." she sat up a little straighter and nodded her head. He found no problems. Drawing back, he sat on the side of the bed near her. "Can you tell me about the pain, Sister?" She shook her head and raised her eyes to him. He didn't think he had ever seen such sorrow. A blush of shame rose to her cheeks as she lowered her eyes to stare at her shaking hands. "It's not your fault, Sister. Whatever has happened, you are innocent. Please, believe me. You bear no shame in this. You will always have my unwavering respect. We will see you well."
Sister Francis allowed herself to fall into him and started to cry, trusting him to keep her safe. The gift of her trust touched him deeply. He took a deep breath then asked, "Can you tell us about your day today? I know it's difficult to not remember what happened but if you can tell us what you do remember we may be able to piece together the rest." She pushed herself away from him and laid her head back on her sister's shoulder.
She was silent for several moments. When she spoke it was barely a whisper, "I remember answering the phone and getting everything together for Mrs. O'Connor. I rode to their flat, parked my bike. Mickey let me in then left. Mrs. O'Connor was happy to see me. Her labor was slow. We walked the small bedroom for a long time. The labor progressed. I delivered a beautiful baby girl." She smiled at the memory. "Mrs. O'Connor was so happy to finally have a little girl. I washed the baby then helped Mrs. O'Connor clean up. I changed the sheets and put the soiled linens in the bag for the laundry service. I put my instruments in my bag. I went into the kitchen to start the kettle. Mickey was back. I told him about his new sister. I went to check on mother and baby. I was going to leave. Mickey offered me a cup of tea. He was so kind, I couldn't refuse. I sat at the table, took a drink...I don't remember leaving but I must have cause I woke in an alley. I remember trying to get up. I couldn't. I wanted to go home. I tried again. I was able to stand. I got to the entrance. My bag was on some boxes. I picked it up. I recognized the street. My bicycle was not where I left it. I found it parked behind some trash bins. I rolled it into the street. I was dizzy and my eyes wouldn't work right. I knew I couldn't ride it. I walked it home." She looked up at him. He encouraged her to continue.
" I don't remember much after that. Sister Julienne helped me inside. I felt myself falling. I woke up on the floor. Phyllis and Sister Hilda helped me up the stairs to my room. Pain. I remember pain. The pain was inside me. My sisters helped me but I couldn't help, I couldn't move, couldn't speak. The pain was all around me. I remember gentle hands cleaning and dressing me." She started shaking as tears ran down her face. "I remember laying in my bed shaking with pain. I drank something. I remember hands rubbing my back." She took a ragged breath. They could see panic growing in her. She searched their faces for answers they didn't have. She looked at her hands then started speaking again.
" I don't know what happened in between. How did I get in that alley? Why can't I remember? Someone hurt me but I can't remember. I know though! I know what they took from me. Every movement brings pain and I know. I know because I've never had pain like this. I made vows. Promises to God!" Her breathing was escalating as she felt the weight of what had happened. "I am broken now. I am separated from our Lord. I am lost" she whispered.
"You are not, sister. You are innocent. You know our Father will never forsake you. Trust us. His Love is beyond our understanding." Sister Julienne held her tightly. Sister Monica Joan and Sister Hilda joined them on the bed wrapping their arms around both of them. Prayers surrounded her as she fell into an exhausted sleep. Patrick helped them lay her down.
"She may need a mild sedative to see her through the night. I'll leave what's in my bag with you. She needs to stay in bed for a day or so until the pain is manageable. She will need to be examined as you all know. Let her choose who does it. She may want one of the lay midwives or someone else she does not know. Let her have that choice and control." Patrick stood and picked up his bag. He knew he should leave but he felt fiercely protective of the sisters. Sister Monica Joan saw him struggling. She took his elbow, led him out of the room, and left him standing outside the door. He looked at it several moments before turning toward the stairs.
He walked down the stairs and into the parlor. Everyone was there waiting to hear as much as he could tell them. "She's resting. The sisters will take turns sitting with her through the night. She will need all of our support and love. She doesn't remember what happened. I suspect she was drugged. I wish I had proof because I would like nothing more than to beat the person I suspect did this senseless with my bare hands. I will talk with the police tomorrow. I don't know if they will do anything. Cases like this are almost impossible to prove. The fact she's a nun in the Order of Saint Raymond Nonnatus may bring another type of justice. She is much beloved by the community after all. Call me if you need anything." He took a step toward the door then turned back, his hands shaking, "No one is to go out on their own. None of you, none of the nuns. The person who did this thinks they have gotten away with it. He will try again." He turned back toward the door rubbing angrily at his wet face.
"I'm glad none of us were out." said Trixie. " I think Dr. Turner might have tracked us down and brought us home himself. "
"I don't think I've ever seen either of them express anger so openly. Sister Julienne was struggling to get herself under control. Trust has been broken between the sisters and the community they've served." Phyllis said quietly.
"The community relies on the sisters for much more than nursing care. I have seen Sister Julienne asked to hold and bless children all over the district." Lucille stated. Then, she shared a recent memory with them. "An older gentleman joined her on the bench in the allotment one day while I was helping Fred. He thanked her for holding his wife's hand while others dug her out of a bombed building. She told him she was happy to do so. She held his hand until his wife came to collect him. The wife always finds him sitting on the bench with Sister Julienne every time he wanders away from their home. Fred told me the old man had bouts of dementia but he remembers that day in 1941 clearly."
" I have seen people rush from their home to speak with her when she passes. Sister Monica Joan is treated the same way. Sister Hilda and Sister Francis have been accepted graciously." Phyllis added. "The children love Sister Francis. Several of the lads were trying to teach her about cricket when she helped with Cubs last week. Dr. Turner is right though. She has become a beloved part of the community. They may take matters into their own hands if her attacker becomes known. She wouldn't want that though. Forgiveness is such a big part of her faith."
"The nuns have always been respected in Poplar" said Valerie.. "They provided care and hope to those who lost everything during the Blitz. I remember seeing Sister Evangelina riding her motorbike near our assigned shelter. I was very young but I remember her passing out teddy bears to all us little ones. I never met her again. My Mom wrote me when she passed. She told me the whole of Poplar joined the procession to the church yard."
"Sister Evangelina would be searching door to door with the wrath of God shining through her if she was here now. She didn't put up with anyone disrespecting her sisters. She loved all of them with all her soul." Trixie's voice was strong and full of conviction. "We need to support the sisters with everything we are. I am sure you all realize how much their vows mean to them. Poverty, Chastity, Obedience." She tilted her head and smiled, "I've seen quite a few of the nuns I've met struggle greatly with that last one, including Sister Evangelina." She gathered herself as she struggled to finish, "I don't know exactly what happened to Sister Francis. I don't need to know. What I do know is that regardless of what happened she is innocent and holds no fault or shame." Trixie's resolve broke as tears slid down her face. Lucille sat beside her and wrapped her in her arms as they cried together.
They all started when the mantle clock sounded out the hour. It didn't seem possible that it was only eight o'clock. They listened carefully for the footsteps of the sisters coming down the stairs to go to the chapel. None came. They got up and went to the base of the staircase. They heard singing coming from upstairs. Climbing the stairs, they listened outside Sister Francis' door as the nuns sang the Psalms with a devotion and beauty that touched their hearts. Their voices uniting in the ancient hymns of praise were comforting to them all. Everyone went to their rooms as quiet settled over the house. The phone didn't ring during that solemn night.
Sister Francis woke to a new dawn with her hand held firmly in Sister Julienne's. She watched her sister's gentle face as she slept. Sister Monica Joan came through the door with a tray full of cake and tea cups. Sister Hilda followed with the tea pot, a jar of milk and a sugar tin. "Good morning my dear sister," Monica Joan said softly. "We bring sustenance for the new day." Sister Francis smiled shyly. Sister Julienne woke and sat up still holding her sister's hand. "Good morning. I take it we missed morning prayers. I fell asleep shortly after we sang Compline. I haven't slept so peacefully in a long time. How are you feeling this morning?" she asked Sister Francis.
"More peaceful and certain than I've ever felt in my life. God spoke to me in my dreams. He told me he loved me and that he was there with me when I was hurt. My body feels different today. The all consuming pain is gone. The love you've shown me has strengthened and healed me. I felt it last night. I heard your voices singing to our Lord while I slept. I am blessed." her face was radiant as she said this, her voice strong and certain. They all felt the Holy Spirit surrounding them.
The house was unusually silent as the sisters came down the stairs with the still laden trays. Sister Francis insisting she was fit to share breakfast with her family even though she still wore her night clothes. The nurses had not expected her to join them. One look at her face, alight with joy at seeing everyone, brought smiles and comfort to everyone present. The front bell rang. Trixie ran to open it. Shelagh, Patrick, Timothy, Angela , May and Teddy came bearing dishes of sausages and eggs along with warm biscuits and a jar of honey. "Good morning to all" Shelagh said with happiness. " I had the strangest feeling that we all needed to be here today." She looked at Sister Julienne whose face was filled with peace; in fact, all the sisters seemed to have a quiet, peaceful air. "We've brought some homemade biscuits and honey. Teddy insisted that since Sister Francis is very fond of them, we had to make some this morning." Teddy walked to Sister Francis and climbed on her lap. She snuggled him into her body and kissed him on the head. Shelagh was sure she had never seen either so content. Something profound had happened during the night. She could feel God's presence in the room. She looked at Julienne who gave her a slight nod then sat next to Patrick and took his hand in hers.
Patrick couldn't quite believe what he was seeing. Sister Francis seemed to glow with happiness. Any pain she had been in had vanished overnight. Her joy was contagious as conversation picked up around the table.
The bell rang again. Timothy went to answer. Fred and Violet came in with Reggie. "Mum made some more jam, Sister Monica Joan. I told her we needed to come for breakfast today. Fred came too. I brought cake."
"It is a pleasure to have your company, Reggie. Pull more chairs around the table then we can bless this food and share it in fellowship." Sister Monica Joan's voice floated over the gathering.
Sister Julienne led a simple grace. Dishes were passed and conversation flowed. Sister Francis was silent but attentive. She felt the others glance at her from time to time. She met their eyes with a gentle peace and a brilliant smile. Sister Julienne could see her tiring. She rose from her chair and motioned to Shelagh to help her guide Frances back to her room. By the time they reached the small cell, Sister Francis was barely able to climb into her bed. "I'm sorry. This tiredness came upon me so suddenly." They helped her lay back then covered her. Shelagh took her hand, "You are still recovering, Sister. Patrick told me about his visit. He didn't tell me all the details but he did tell me how much your trust in him meant. He has worked with the Sisters of Saint Raymond Nonnatus since the end of the war. He truly cares for all of you. I've seen him angry at the injustices of this world but never like last night. Your recovery has confused him. I, however, know where it's source lay. My faith has always sustained me. I could feel God's presence downstairs and more so in this room. Miracles take energy, Sister. Your tiredness will fade but your faith will be stronger than ever. We have all been blessed. Thank you for showing Patrick the amazing strength that comes with faith." Shelagh bent down to kiss her cheek then left.
Sister Julienne sat on the chair by the bed and took her sister's hand in hers. "I have seen what could be called miracles during my time in the East End. I have seen remarkable acts of bravery as well as soul destroying acts of depravity. Dr. Turner, Patrick, has also seen more than his share of loss, especially during the war then during the illness of his first wife, Timothy's mother. Losing her destroyed his faith. You are something of a mystery to him now. God has healed you. Your innocence and devotion to Him was never in doubt even though you thought you had been lost due to the callous actions of another. We, as your sisters, have been given a precious gift and we shall cherish it. Our family has also been given a glimpse of the power of His Love and Grace. Rest easy sister. I shall stay for a while until you fall asleep."
Sister Francis closed her eyes and fell into a deep, peaceful sleep. Her sisters and friends took turns sitting with her through the day and night. She woke as the sun rose. "Good morning", Sister Hilda greeted. "Your habit is ready if you are. I can help you if you'd like."
"I believe I would like. Thank you. Is everyone else up?" she asked sitting up.
"Nurse Crane and Trixie went to a twin birth in the wee hours of the morning. Sister Julienne, Valerie and Lucille are at the Maternity Home with Mr. and Mrs. Turner working on a new schedule to insure everyone's safety." Hilda noticed her sister's quick intake of breath as she withdrew back into the bed.
"Are we alone in the house, Sister? The others have been such a great comfort." She tried to calm her breathing. She really hadn't been afraid since she had the dream but she was now.
"Sister, it's okay. We are safe here. I am not going to leave you on your own. Fred is nearby working in the allotment. We can go out and keep him company if you want." Hilda took her hands to calm her.
Francis nodded then pushed the covers off and started to dress like see always had. When she was ready. She took her sister's arm and went downstairs to find some breakfast.
" I think Sister Monica Joan is in the parlor already watching the morning broadcast." Hilda stated a little louder than necessary.
"Do you think she would join us?" asked Francis.
"Of course I will, Child," Monica Joan took her elbow and moved them into the kitchen. She pulled out a chair and helped Frances sit.
" I don't want you to miss your program. I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm out of sorts this morning." She looked down at her hands as tears dropped onto the table.
"Sister, you have been very brave. You thought you were settled after your dream and indeed it brought you and us peace. But now the idea of going back into the world is overwhelming you. We will not let you walk alone. We will walk with you until you are ready to walk alone again." Sister Francis looked up into their faces. She knew she was safe. They ate some buttered toast and drank their tea then went to sit on the bench in the allotment. The sun was warm and the air crisp. Fred kept a careful watch. He talked to them about planting new flowers and a few vegetables. Reggie visited with the sisters then offered Sister Francis his hand to walk around the allotment. She smiled up at him then took up his offer. His friendly nature calmed her greatly.
By lunch time, she felt more like herself. The others were back and the conversation flowed over her like a gentle breeze. Sister Julienne watched her carefully. Francis followed the conversations but did not comment. Her hands kept contact with the person near her. She waited only a moment when that person moved to find the nearest person to her. She looked tired again. "Sister Francis can you join me in chapel please?" Frances got up to follow her reaching out to hold her hand. They sat in the chairs by the alter. "How was your morning, Sister? Fred told me you had a nice stroll with Reggie."
"it was nice to be outside. Reggie was charming as usual. Sisters Hilda and Monica Joan kept me company. But, I found myself unable to be on my own. It doesn't make sense that I'm scared now but I am. Sister. Did I do something wrong? Did I not appreciate His gift enough? I shouldn't be scared. He has given me so much..." Her voice broke as she fell onto her sister's lap.
Sister Julienne rubbed gentle circles on her back as she cried into her habit. "You have done nothing wrong. Your faith is stronger than it's ever been. He knows how much you love Him. Your fear comes now because what happened to you took place in a world you no longer trust. Dr. Turner told me some news today that will hopefully alleviate those fears. The young man, Mickey, has been arrested. The chemist he had been working for evidently caught him on the settee in his office with his daughter who was unconscious. it was clear to him that something untoward was happening. He beat Mickey severely, tied him up, and called the police. His daughter was unharmed. It appears Mickey taught himself how to mix a mild sedative with a low dose morphine that dissolves in liquid. The police found a notebook detailing how he mixed the drugs, who he had given them to, and what the results had been when they searched his room. Dr. Turner was allowed to exam the notebook. Your name was not in it.."
Sister Francis sat up "The tea....he put something in my tea. Did he hurt the other women, Sister?"
"The police are investigating but most women will refuse to report what happened. Some will probably not realize anything happened at all. Also, the mixture is incredibly dangerous. Patrick told me some of the women never woke up." Sister Julienne placed the palm of her hand on the side of her sister's face. "We are blessed to have you here with us, Sister. We could have lost you." These last words were said with such pain Sister Francis knew she needed to say the words she had been thinking for months. Her Sister needed to hear what was in her heart. She took Julienne's hands in her own and looked with conviction into her eyes.
"The morning Mickey called, I was thinking how grateful I was that God, and Mother Mildred of course," she added with a playful smile, "had placed me here at Nonnatus House. I was so uncertain about my abilities and whether or not I would be accepted during those first few months. Your offer to help me with my studies and then asking me to join you in prayer spoke of your devotion to me. That was the day I started feeling how much love was here. It's a physical presence really. You can feel it when you walk through the door. That's down to you Sister Julienne. Mother Jesu Emmanuel often used you as an example of what dedication to service in the name of Christ should look like. I have seen that over and over again since living here. God came to me in a dream when I felt broken. He healed my body and my spirit. But, you, Sister, walk in His presence every day. His light shines from your face every time you deliver a child, every time you hold the hand of a dying person, every smile that graces your face when you hold Teddy on your lap, let Timothy use your office, read a story to Angela and May or see the love shared between Dr. Turner and Shelagh. The community you have served for decades searches you out to bless their children or thank you for some long ago kindness. We all feel the love and care you have for us both inside and outside these walls. All of us can feel it, all of the nurses and all of the nuns. You inspire others to love, Sister. That is the greatest gift anyone can give to another. You are the essence of Nonnatus House."
"Amen", Hilda said softly. " We have visitors, sisters. The Turner clan are joining us for dinner. Master Teddy has been searching through the house for his "Nana Ju". Shelagh is in the kitchen preparing dinner with Phyllis. Angela and May are in the parlor reading fairy tales to Sister Monica Joan. Dr Turner is playing chess with Timothy. Trixie, Valerie, and Lucille set the table and are trying to engage every one within listening distance to join them in a rousing game of musical chairs. Fred and Violet are going to stop by the bakery first. Reggie told them Sister Monica Joan needs more cake."
" Let us join the party then. Sound like we're going to have a full house.", Sister Julienne said with laughter. She wiped her face as she stood. Her sister's words had touched her heart. As she walked into the hallway, she heard Teddy calling for her. He heard her footsteps and ran to her. She scooped him up in her arms to hug him close and kiss his head. "It's good to see you too, Master Turner." Her smile lit up the room. Sister Francis found herself filled with joy at the scene and thanking God again for sending her to this family.