Tracie Peterson & Judith Miller - [Lights of Lowell 01] by A Tapestry of Hope Read Free Book Online Page A

Bradley knew he must impress them above all the others.
    Leonard Montrose approached, blocking Bradley’s view of the two men. ‘‘For someone who’s hoping for a prestigious appointment this evening, you’re looking rather grim, Bradley.’’
    Bradley repositioned himself alongside Leonard, now able to once again observe Nathan Appleton. ‘‘I’m not certain the matter will come to a vote tonight, but if it does, I hope I can count on your support.’’
    ‘‘I’ll go along with them.’’ Leonard tipped his head toward Matthew and Nathan. ‘‘If they want you, so do the rest of us. It’s the way of things around here these days. With Tracy Jackson ailing, Matthew and Nathan seem to carry most of the control. I trust them to know what’s best for the Corporation.’’
    Bradley took a deep draw on his cigar and blew a funnel of gray smoke toward the ceiling. ‘‘Then once I lay out my proposal, let’s hope they think I’m what’s best for the Associates.’’
    Leonard took a sip of port and looked around the room.
    ‘‘Thought maybe Tracy would be here tonight, but perhaps he’s unable to tolerate the late-night air. These business meetings always take longer than necessary,’’ he mused.
    Before Bradley could comment, Leonard waved to several men across the room. ‘‘Good luck on the proposal,’’ he absently remarked as he sauntered off.
    Bradley didn’t reply. Instead, he watched Nathan and Matthew as they continued their private conversation. Perhaps they were discussing him. He had yet to achieve the level of acceptance into the Associates that he so desperately desired. There was no doubt it was his substantial investment in the mills that had swayed the Associates to permit him entrance into their ranks. Selling his father’s shipping business had been risky, yet Bradley yearned for the esteem his alignment with these powerful men would surely produce.
    ‘‘Prepared for your presentation?’’ James Morgan asked jovially.
    The man’s bulbous nose was the color of a cardinal. Bradley hoped James hadn’t imbibed too much—he needed all the support he could garner, and none of the Associates would pay heed to a man who was in his cups. Perhaps it was merely the heat.
    ‘‘I’m anxious to begin,’’ Bradley told him, ‘‘and it appears that will soon occur.’’ He nodded toward Nathan and Matthew, who were moving to the front of the room.
    Nathan seated himself nearby, but it was Matthew Cheever who took immediate control of the meeting. Bradley maneuvered through the crowd, angling for a better view of the proceedings.
    Upon Kirk Boott’s death nine years ago, Matthew had easily transitioned into the older man’s powerful position, and that conversion had been a matter of intense interest to Bradley. The entire process reinforced his own desire to eventually be elevated into a position of leadership among the Associates. He hoped he would make that first step tonight.
    ‘‘Now, I know you’re all aware that as our textile industry has grown, so has the need for cotton. We have discussed the possibility of appointing a liaison to expand our acquisition of cotton from the Southern plantations. Demand is high for all of the textile products we can produce. However, I think you would all agree that unless we can purchase sufficient raw cotton, there is no need for further expansion or development.’’
    Matthew waited until the murmuring ceased and then motioned to Bradley. ‘‘Move on over here, Bradley. All of you know our good friend and loyal investor, Bradley Houston.’’
    ‘‘Indeed, and we’re pleased to have his allegiance,’’ Leonard Montrose called out.
    ‘‘And his money, ’’ some unseen member added from the back of the room.
    A smattering of laughter followed the latter remark. Matthew smiled and waited patiently until the noise diminished. ‘‘Bradley has indicated a strong desire to help the Corporation convince our Southern cotton growers