June 1st 1846
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“Got your head in the clouds again I see Joshua,” Caroline Schmidt sighed taking a seat on the grass next to her brother. “You know father expects you to spend today with Mary.”
“And you know I do not wish to be around Mary.” Joshua replied.
“She’s to be your wife.” Caroline sighed.
“I’m eighteen. I should be able to chose for myself.” Joshua groaned.
“You know that’s not how this works little brother. This marriage will bring father even more money you know as well as I that he is going to make sure this happens.”
“Why does he have to be like this?” Joshua asked sadly. “You know I’ll never be happy with her.”
Caroline sighed. “I know you’ll never be happy with her or with any woman, but you know the life you want will never be allowed.”
“You still think I’m wrong for not liking women.”
“I don’t. I’ve come to realize who you like is not my place to judge, but you know the rest of the town will not think that. Father would never accept it and you can’t just blow Mary off. You know his temper.” Mary pleaded.
“I know.” Joshua replied dejectedly. “But Mary is an awful woman.”
“Just give her time.” Caroline replied. “Maybe you can come to love her.”
“I doubt it.”
“Just please try for me?” Caroline asked. “I don’t want you angering him.”
“I’ll try, but I won’t be happy.” Joshua scoffed.
