Never Broken by Kathleen Fuller Read Free Book Online Page A

good are words, when it’s the basic necessities she needs?
    That night, after passing out food to what seemed to be an endless line of needy people, he and Sara met in the drawing room, both of them spent. A tray with tea and sandwiches lay on the polished sideboard near them. Rory selected two small sandwiches and took them to Sara, who seemed on the verge of collapse.
    “No arguments, lass,” he said, thrusting the plate into her hands and guiding her to one of the high-backed, winged chairs that flanked the fireplace. “You will eat.”
    She opened her mouth as if to protest but accepted the food in silence. Rory quickly retrieved a sandwich for himself and sat in the chair across from her, determined not to leave until she had taken some nourishment. He was prepared to spend the entire night in the room with her if he had to.
    Sara picked at the bread, finally breaking off a piece and eating it. “There were more than only our tenants at the gates today.”
    Rory nodded. “I noticed. I suspect the numbers will increase tomorrow.”
    “If only the other landowners would take action.” She sighed, shaking her head. “Like William, they seem content to let the people starve.”
    He couldn’t respond. What could he say when he didn’t understand the laissez-faire attitude many of the English landowners held regarding the Irish problem? While there were a few who, like Uncle Edwin, were trying their best to provide food and supplies to the tenant farmers, there were far more that refused.
    “Speaking of William,” Sara continued, “he and Priscilla have left for Cork.”
    Rory arched a brow. “When?”
    “This morning. Apparently they used the back entrance of the estate, which was why we didn’t see them depart. They’ll be back in a fortnight.” A guilty expression crossed her delicate features. “I must admit… I’m glad they’re gone. I believe it will be easier for Father while William is away.”
    “Aye. Things are always easier when William is away.”
    Sara managed a tiny smile, but it quickly dissipated. “If only my brother could see how his unrelenting insistence on leaving Ireland affects Father. But he’s turned a blind eye to everything except his selfish desire to move to England.”
    “Do you think Priscilla has anything to do with it?”
    “I honestly don’t know. Priscilla isn’t exactly forthcoming with me. She spends more time with Mother. Perhaps it could be Mother influencing Priscilla, who is, in turn, pressuring William. To be honest, I don’t care.” She stared down at her food. “I’m weary of hearing him say this tragedy is the tenants’ fault.” She looked at Rory. “I don’t understand how he can be so cruel.” She set her plate on the tiny, round side table next to the chair, rose from her seat, then walked to the window. She stared out at the people below. “They’re still here.” She placed her palm against the pane of glass. “Even at night there are so many of them, standing at the door, waiting for what little we give them.”
    Rory came up behind her and gently turned her to face him. “We’re doing all we can, Sara. Take comfort in that.”
    “I try. But Rory, sometimes I feel it is all too much to bear.”
    He enveloped her in his embrace. “There now. Remember, we will not be given more than we can endure. ‘Tis only for a season, all this. Next year will be better. The potatoes will come back plumper and more plentiful than ever. And all these troubles will be in the past.” He released her. “Now,” he added, guiding her back to her chair. “Finish your supper.”
    Sara sighed, then sat down. “I suppose you’ll nag me until I do.”
    “Aye. That I will.”
    She took another bite of her sandwich as Rory rang for a fresh pot of tea. When the servant left, Sara smiled.
    “Now that’s what I like to see,” he said. “A bonny smile is a balm to the soul. What are you thinkin’ about that has you in better