Mr. Carson snorted. “Manual labor. My son, who was raised to rule over industry, has been relegated to the position of a common laborer.” He dabbed his napkin to his lips. He’d hardly eaten anything.

“Father, hard work has never hurt anyone. It has expanded my skills and helped me better understand those who work for me. Surely that is knowledge worth obtaining.”

His father leaned back in his chair. Gloriana thought he looked very tired, but she said nothing. She wasn’t feeling overly kind toward this man who had already suggested her brother was unwelcome.

“I can’t help but feel that when you understand the tasks required to work a job,” Luke continued, “it betters your ability to deal with the workforce required to accomplish that job. After all, how can you properly manage men if you don’t understand what you’ve asked of them?”

“That is precisely why I stay out of it and hire others to oversee. Honestly, Lucas, you have been raised and educated to stand far above others. You were never intended to be an overseer to anyone. I plan to speak to Jay Cooke upon my return. It’s ridiculous for you to be here in the middle of nowhere. Come back to Philadelphia and work for me. Better still, I will turn over part of the Carson industry to you. You’ll see for yourself that instructing others to do your bidding is the better way.”

Luke’s eyes narrowed, and Gloriana could see his father’s words had piqued his anger. “Do not think to interfere in my vocation, Father. I have chosen the path I desire. I have no desire for you to speak with Mr. Cooke, and should you do so, it will most assuredly alter my respect for you.”

Mr. Carson looked just as frustrated by his son’s response as Luke had been at his suggestions. Furthermore, JT had grown silent as he watched his elders speak out against each other. Gloriana reached over and gave his hand a pat. JT looked at her for a moment, then refocused his attention on the food.

They all ate in silence for several minutes until Sally decided enough was enough. She had eaten the bits and pieces of food Gloriana had placed on her tray and now wanted more of a role in the evening’s entertainment. She slapped her hands on the wooden tray of her chair and babbled loudly.

Mr. Carson seemed taken aback. He stopped his coffee midway to his lips and stared at the baby. Gloriana wondered if he’d ever before sat at a table with a baby.

“She seems to have liked the fish and bread,” Luke declared with a grin.

“I’m certain she’ll enjoy the creamed peas and potatoes even better.” Gloriana finished mashing a portion, then scooped up a small amount on her spoon. “Here you are, little miss. Try these.”