“I know you wanted to speak with Uncle first,” Charlie said. “But remember that he is a little old-fashioned. You will have to impress him with your scheme before he’ll agree to it. Having Matt and me on your side will help.”

The fluttering in her stomach vanished and she buttered bread to make a sandwich. “Yes, of course.” She knew the scheme would not be as easy as she had wished it to be. “What do you suggest I read if this book will not help?”

“I’ve been giving that some thought,” Matt said. “There have been some local pieces written in support of the miners. I have sent to one of the publishers to see if he will provide me copies.”

“That makes sense. I suppose I should read what the other side is saying as well.” She started to wave her hand around, but it still held the knife with butter on it. Perhaps poor Hugh had not inherited that habit from his father’s side of the family. Eleanor put the utensil down. “Although I cannot understand how anyone can justify lowering wages and allowing unsafe working conditions.”

“Ellie”—Charlie called her by the name he used when she was a very small girl—“It is worse than what you might think. Women and children are made to work in the mines as well.”

Mrs. Johnson had told her the same thing. But the prior knowledge did nothing for Eleanor’s appetite. The bread and chicken turned to dust in her mouth, and she had a hard time swallowing. “Just like in the factories.”

Her brother nodded. “And worse. Their health appears to be permanently damaged.”

“Well, then, we must do something to help them.” At the very least, she would do whatever was in her power.

Charlie grinned. “When I next write to Sir Henry, I’ll tell him we have another radical in the family.”

“Yes, do.” She smiled thinking about his reaction. “He might have some ideas about how to go about this.”

Matt cocked a brow. “He probably already has contacts that are writing about the issue. I’m surprised I didn’t think of him when you first mentioned your plan.”

“None of us did, but it is an excellent idea.” Eleanor liked that she would have others to help and advise her, especially her family.

“I’m proud of you, Ellie.” Charlie reached over and patted her back. “You really did grow up while I was gone.”

“I should hope I did.” She was glad he was home. “I am eighteen, after all.”

“Have we given you enough time?” Alice rushed to their brother and hugged him when he rose. “Charlie! I’m so glad you are here.”

“We do not see you enough.” Madeline embraced him as well. “Did you come to help Eleanor?”