Mabel S. A Day in the Life

A Day in the Life of Clara Wraith

I wake up in my own bed, my pillow stained with tears. For a moment I am confused, but then I remember the dream. Scenes flash through my head: a man on the ground, the rancid smell of smoke in the air, the cries of innocent men and women ripping through the sky. Suddenly, the realization of what happened hits me. I dreamt of the day my parents died, and my sister was separated from me forever. I slowly drag myself out of bed… and crumple to the floor. Memories sear through my mind. I see a man collapse in pain, on the edge of death. I see myself, reaching out to him, but he is slipping away. I let out a cry of pain. James! My husband! He was terribly wounded in a battle, and rushed away to a hospital. He recovered, but he left everything behind. He left town, and I haven’t seen him since. Oh well. Maybe… maybe we’ll find each other again. Someday.

I pull myself up on the bed frame and stumble over to my closet. I reach for my old black bodice, but then I remember today’s happy occasion. I’m going to see my rich sister and her daughter today! She is rich because after our parents died, she went to live with our wealthy aunt and uncle. I stayed with my favorite middle class cousin. My sister married a rich man, and my husband James was not very wealthy. I always had a talent for pottery, so after he died, I started my own business making clay pots for the town. I pull out a deep blue silk bodice, and a fluffy white skirt from my closet. I hum to myself as I dress, knowing that I’m not all alone in this world. I am glad that we were accepted in Williamsburg, even though we are French. A voice sounds outside.

“Mrs. Wraith- uh, Clara?The carriage is ready, and there is ample food and water for the journey!”

It’s my servant Alfred. He’s been in my family for a long time. Unfortunately, he is very formal, and I have to keep reminding him to call me Clara, not Mrs. Wraith. I slip on my leather shoes and open the door. I descend the stairs, trying not to jump for joy. I compose myself as Alfred swings the door open as I approach.

Blinding gold sunlight streams in, bringing beautiful warmth and light to the drab gray walls of my middle class home on the outskirts of Williamsburg. I step outside, and stare at the wonderful carriage I am to ride in. It is deep blue (my favorite color!) with two black horses harnessed. It looks brand new and comfortable. My sister must have sent it for me! Alfred helps me inside, and I gasp. The seats are purple velvet, and the interior is pale blue. It looks extremely nice, and it ought to be quite sufficient. I settle myself into the purple seat near the window. It all looks squeaky clean and polished. At a nod from Alfred, the driver flicks the reins. I’m off!

The carriage rumbles down the road, and I am amazed at how smooth the ride is. I decide to distract myself with my luggage, which Alfred placed in the carriage before I arrived. I open my black bag and take out my book. It is about life on a plantation, and it is simply fascinating. I amuse myself this way for many hours. At midday, we stop for a light dinner of bread and cheese and water. Then we are off again. By late afternoon, we are rolling along a very nice street. I am so excited I can hardly sit still. We rumble to a stop in front of a very beautiful house. I am helped out by two of my sister’s servants. One retrieves my bags, and the other escorts me to the abode of my sister. I mount the stairs, my excitement growing. The servant opens the door. I step inside and gasp at the rich blue carpet, vibrant colors, and beautiful decorations. I hear light footsteps pitter-pattering down the stairs, and I know my niece has heard of my arrival. I feel almost ready to burst with happiness, because now, I have finally found my family.