A Fragile Design by Tracie Peterson Read Free Book Online Page B

you’ve got things well in hand for tonight’s meeting.’’
    William Thurston glanced over his shoulder, his features contorted into a sneer. ‘‘If a mobcap and frilly apron are all that are required to have things well in hand, I’d say that Kirk’s lackey is certainly prepared.’’
    Matthew’s jaw clenched and he could feel the blood rising to his cheeks. Farnsworth gave a slight nod of his head as he took hold of Matthew’s elbow. ‘‘I believe there’s a more intelligent level of conversation across the room,’’ John said, tugging at Matthew’s arm. ‘‘Ignore him. He isn’t worth your time or trouble, and nobody here values his opinion. That’s why he’s been standing by himself since his arrival,’’ John said in a hushed voice.
    ‘‘I know,’’ Matthew replied. ‘‘But he’s so puffed up—full of conceit. I’d like to take him down a peg or two.’’
    John laughed. ‘‘That’s your youth speaking, my boy. There are more effective ways to deal with the likes of William Thurston.’’
    ‘‘Such as?’’
    John gave him a sly grin. ‘‘Pray for him. Let God deal with William Thurston. Men such as William want to be the center of attention. He’s insecure and angry. A fist won’t change his heart—only God can do that.’’
    ‘‘You’re right, of course, but I’m not certain I want God’s grace to shine down upon that man,’’ Matthew replied. ‘‘Perhaps you should pray for me, John.’’
    John slapped Matthew on the back. ‘‘I’ll be praying for the both of you. How’s that?’’
    ‘‘Gentlemen, I believe everyone is here. Shall we get started?’’ Kirk inquired as he strode into the room. There was no doubt Kirk Boott was in command. ‘‘We have several matters upon which to report, and then I’ll be glad to entertain any questions or new ideas.’’
    The account grew lengthy as Boott reported on the Merrimack, Hamilton, Appleton, and Lowell Mills, carefully explaining the profits and expenditures of each mill. ‘‘Of course, the Lowell Mill hasn’t been in production long enough to show a profit, but I believe it will do so more rapidly than any of our other mills. I believe Nathan’s strong encouragement to expand into rug production was another stroke of genius. Our fine friend and associate Tracy Jackson has given me several contacts for overseas buyers, and orders within the country are burgeoning.’’
    ‘‘Hear, hear!’’ a few men called out, while others applauded loudly.
    Matthew watched as Kirk basked in the adulation for a moment or two before continuing. ‘‘I’m certain you are all interested in hearing about our latest projects. I believe Matthew Cheever can give you a more detailed report on those ventures,’’ he said while motioning Matthew to his side. ‘‘As many of you know, I’m relying on Matthew more and more as we continue to expand.’’
    This was Matthew’s first opportunity to speak before the assembled group, and he didn’t want to embarrass himself or Boott. Thanking Kirk, he took his place and told the men that projections were on target for the Middlesex Mill to begin production in the fall. There were murmurs of approval from the group.
    ‘‘During your tour earlier today, I’m certain you noted that even with a particularly harsh winter, Hugh Cummiskey and his Irishmen have continued to make excellent progress on digging and laying stone for the new canals required to power the Suffolk and Tremont Mills. Those two mills remain on schedule to open in 1832. As our capable agent-in-residence, Mr. Boott, has pointed out, there is great demand for our products both overseas and here at home, particularly in the South. Not only for rugs but many of our other goods, as well. We plan to expand the production of our lightweight Negro cloth for our southern states as well as warmer climates overseas. The demand has been beyond our highest expectations,’’ Matthew acknowledged. ‘‘Although the