You’ve Got Mail

Catherine opened the telegram as slowly as she could for fear of ripping it. Her trembling hands stopped short of opening it completely. The glue held fast on the corner. What if the letter bore bad news? What would she do? Catherine didn’t think she could handle the disappointment. It had been a busy quarter with all of the papers and readings to do, but this letter and its contents were never far from her mind. She was exhausted both physically and mentally.

“Open it!” gushed Theresa. She couldn’t handle the intensity. This letter would contain all the details of Catherine’s future life. Would she move? Would she stay? What would happen?

“Oh, Theresa, it could all be over now. I’m just not sure I’m ready to accept that,” said Catherine.

“The deal is already done,” she explained. “Your life’s course is already decided. You just don’t know the details. Open it! Please! I’m begging you!” urged Theresa.

Catherine opened up the last bit of the telegram.

“Dear Miss Butler . . .” read Catherine.

“It sounds official!” exclaimed Theresa.

“We regret to inform you that the position of the school master in Frankfurt has been filled . . .” continued Catherine.

“Oh, dear,” moaned Theresa, a lump forming in her throat.

“However . . .” Catherine interrupted. “We would like to offer you the school master position here at the school in Heatherby!”

“You got the position?” asked Theresa incredulously.

“Yes,” sighed Catherine, as she smoothed her skirts. “Say hello to the new school master.”