“There were a couple I thought rather promising, but they didn’t have the same interest in me. And those who did had Papa to contend with.” She smiled. “He was quite particular.”

“And who could blame him? When I think of someone wanting to date Sally, I get very protective.”

Gloriana laughed. “Let’s give her a few years, please.”

“So did you and your father entertain the idea of any of the gentlemen of Duluth?”

“I suppose there were a couple he had his eye on. But we were in no hurry. Mama needed my help at home, and I was in no hurry to leave.” Her voice softened. “Then, when Mama died, I felt obligated to forget about such things and take care of JT and Papa. I knew that if God wanted me married, He would send me a man who would love Papa and my brother, and we could all live together as one big happy family. I didn’t get my hopes up, however.” She looked a little sad. “Now it doesn’t matter. Papa isn’t here.”

“Let’s not dwell on that. I’m really hoping to better understand my associate. I got the feeling there was something Mr. Sedgwick’s father wanted to say about him, but he held back. You wouldn’t know about some past conflict or trouble, would you?”

Gloriana grew thoughtful. “I remember hearing his mother mention something that happened when he was much younger. This would have been before he left town. Probably when I was just a little girl. I don’t know much about it, but she said he had shamed them—risked his father’s good name. It cost the pastor a great deal of money, but I can’t tell you why. Then he moved to Philadelphia to go to college, and eventually started work at a bank.” She shrugged. “His mother had brief letters over the years. I know he fought for the North in the war. His folks were pleased he’d done at least that much, but I get the impression he’s mostly been a disappointment to them.” She put her hand to her mouth. “I shouldn’t have said that. I don’t want to be a gossip.”

“I’m sorry for pressing you for the information. It’s just that I know nothing about him. He works well enough, but he seems cloaked in mystery.” Luke shrugged. “I can’t put my finger on it. He’s willing enough to do what I ask of him, however, so I suppose I should just put aside my concerns and let him work.”

Gloriana got to her feet. “I don’t know. Mama used to say those feelings were there for a reason. She believed it was God’s prodding.”

“But you don’t?”

She didn’t even look at him. “I don’t know what I believe anymore.”