Chapter 10: Finding the Key
The rest of the train ride is fairly uneventful, though it was quite a mess getting the authorities to buy your story. Fortunately they do, and though Jaffers' end is untimely, the rail line is quick to cover it up. Mrs. Turning calms down nicely after Abigail's departure, but from time to time she still says odd things, and once during an otherwise pleasant chat, her eyes glaze over and she turns to Ian and says, I'm so very sorry you lost your wife and children Mr. Shaw. I'm sure you miss them. He quickly excuses himself at this and for days he says very little, avoiding the old woman completely. Fortunately she doesn't stay aboard much longer, her stop is before yours, and she departs with her grateful niece.
Meanwhile Delapore is showing a shy interest in Alice, being less gruff than usual with her and even engaging in conversation from time to time. It's clear he's terrified of women, but Alice has softened him a bit. His stop is also before yours, and he actually gives you the name of the post office in town should you ever wish to "correspond," as he puts it. Surprising indeed.
At last you make it to Maine. It's beautiful and green with trees and blue skies and the ocean just in the distance. Under other circumstances you would enjoy yourself, but you have much to do. Emma claims her contacts are in the city of Portland, and you can only hope she leads you as well as she has so far. In many ways the woman has changed. Softened, even become chatty and friendly, though she avoids talking to Alice, no doubt not forgetting your past encounters. She is clearly fond of Penny though, and is often asking her if she's interested in doing needlepoint, or asking for details about English society and what it all entails.
Finally you reach the train station, which is bustling this time of day, 11:08 a.m. Emma suggests you book a hotel and then see about calling on her friends. They won't be happy to see you I should confess. They aren't the most savory folk. But, if anyone is up to the task, I'm sure you are! she beams with a smile.
ooc: Ok, let me know your plans before you head out. I'll also need search checks and gather information while I'm at it so I can be ready ahead of time. Thanks!