The Cogan Legend Read Free

you even agree to go?”
    â€œI don’t know, Mother.  I don’t know.”  Rachel sighed and added, “But I will tell her no.”      
    In the tavern, Tom’s anger got to him.  He regretted ever talking to George about Ann’s escapades; he wished he would have just let Charles find out for himself.  After a few more drinks, a ridiculous plan replaced his anger.  It was one that Charles Fairchild would never go for.  
    When Tom arrived home, Rachel immediately apologized for bringing up the idea and was surprised when Tom shook his head.  “Wait, hear me out; I have an idea.  If Charles would double your wages and pay all your expenses, I wouldn’t be opposed to you going along.”
    Rachel said nothing for a moment. Then she shook her head.  “Mother and I discussed it, and she doesn’t want me to go.”  
    â€œDon’t worry,” Tom grinned.  “I’ll talk to your mother.”
    â€œBut…” Rachel’s confusion left her without an adequate argument.
    Tom looked at her.  “It’s double or nothing, or you don’t go.”  
    â€œAlright,” Rachel said slowly, “but only if you can convince Mother.”
    At breakfast Tom broached the idea with Mrs. Miller.  “Carrie, Rachel and I talked about this last night.  If Charles Fairchild will double her wages and pay her expenses, I wouldn’t be opposed to her going.”  He waited to see if Rachel’s mother would disagree. When she didn’t comment, he continued.  “If Charles agrees, Rachel and I can get married soon after she returns, but Rachel won’t go until you agree.”  Mrs. Miller gazed at the clock on the wall with her hand over her mouth.  After what seemed like an eternity, she broke her silence, “I don’t like this idea at all.  I would rather have my daughter right here with me regardless of the money.”  Pointing a finger at Tom, “If that is what both of you want I will agree, but if anything happens to her, I’m holding you responsible.”  
    â€œCarrie, what could happen?  They are only going to a lodge for a while and coming home,” Tom said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
    Mrs. Miller just gave him a long stare before she nodded assent.          
    A few days later, Ann was so anxious to get down to the dress shop she practically followed Rachel in the door as she arrived for work.  “I know I’m here early, but I couldn’t sleep; I must know what you decided.”  
    â€œWe’ve discussed it,” Rachel said.  “But Tom is only willing to let me go if your father will pay.”
    â€œPay?”  Ann’s eyes searched Rachel’s.
    Taking a deep breath, Rachel continued.  “If he doubles my wages and pays all my expenses.”  She placed her hands on the glass case holding jewelry.  “Mother also agreed even though she doesn’t like the idea, and Tom promised to marry me when I return.”
    Excited that Rachel was willing to go under any circumstances, Ann promised, “I’ll talk to my father.  I’m sure he’ll agree! I’ll beg him, I’ll get down on my knees and beg him if I must!”  
    At dinner Ann presented Rachel’s offer.  
    â€œThat sounds like Tom Straub speaking,” Charles groused.
    â€œYou’re probably right, Father, but if you don’t accept, I won’t go.  I’ll run away, I swear I will.”  
    Frowning at his daughter’s impertinence, Charles placed his hands on the shiny mahogany table.  “I’m going to have to think this over.”  He frowned at her.  “This is your punishment, and you’re asking me to make concessions?”  
    For several days Charles pondered the question.  He knew he had to get Ann out of