Priscilla has thrilled at her entrance into society, cried when she left, and traveled to Waterwood. Now, her future beckons.

Dear Diary,

This has been a truly great day.  The weather could not be better.  The sky was a clear azure blue with just a few wispy white clouds to give the gentle breeze some playthings.  The air was sweet with just a hint of the Bay’s salt water.  Flowers growing wild in the field meet the eye with a symphony of color.  The gardens are ripening with their bounty.  It shall be a good year for harvest.  And I shall only think of how my body is ripening as well with the growth of the child within me.  I am anxious to hold…him?  Her?  I wish I knew if I will have a son or daughter.  Though my dear husband says he will be content with a healthy child, I think he secretly hopes for a son.  Does not every father hope for a son to share his interests, to groom into a fine young man, to train for the future when he shall be the master of the property and business his father has amassed?  I believe Nathaniel is no different, but he keeps this wish a secret.  I hope I do not disappoint him.  

As I look forward to the coming months, I am feeling more and more confident.  The wonderful thing that happened today only bolsters my strong feeling that all will be well.   

My sister was concerned about who might attend me during this visit, since my maid has disappeared.  Abigail and her husband, Edmund, feel that secrecy is paramount to my safety during these turbulent times.  Having an unfamiliar face in the kitchen and main house, answering only to me and my sister could lead to awkward questions and speculation.  Gossip could lead to injury.  During these first days of my residence in the attic of Waterwood House, my sister has been attending to my needs.  It is a burden difficult for her to assume considering all of her other duties.  

What a joyous surprise it was when my brother-in-law Edmund returned to Waterwood after a brief trip away.  In his company was a young girl not long into womanhood.  He had offered her a position here at Waterwood to see to all my needs.  What a thoughtful man.  I asked how he had come to meet her.  He said it was quite fortuitous that he learned of a young woman from Ireland who had just arrived in the Colony of Maryland.  She comes from a large family and has much experience with women expecting and newborn babes.  He said he paid the cost of her passage as required and brought her to Waterwood today.  I told him that my husband Nathaniel would be happy to repay the debt Edmund had incurred on my behalf.

I cannot say how relieved I am to have Cassidy by my side for these next months.  She knows what to expect and will guide me through it.  Her understanding and experience will help ensure a safe delivery and show me how to help my baby thrive.  

I feel calm and confident now.  The only thing that could improve my situation would be to have my husband Nathaniel here with me.  I hope to see him soon.