The Hard Land-Part 32

Frank dragged himself slowly across the yard toward the house, the weight of recent days heavy on his shoulders. Anna had not recovered from Helen’s birth, spending most of her time in bed while eleven-year-old Charlotte took over the household chores. She washed clothes, prepared meals, and spent time with baby Helen. Frank knew that this was not sustainable. He needed to get medical attention for Anna beyond the help of the local doctor.

He pushed the door of the house open, his eyes turning quickly to the bedroom where Anna lay. He crossed the room and looked in on Anna. He saw the sweat beaded on her forehead. He didn’t need to ask to know she was not feeling better. His shoulders slumped. Should he make another trip to bring the doctor? The last two visits had proven useless. The doctor gave Anna medicine to bring the fever down, but once it wore off, she was as ill as ever. Frank felt utterly helpless in a world he knew nothing about.

“Papa, do you want supper?” Charlotte asked, her small frame pressing against the stove where a pot of stew simmered.