When My Father and My Mother Forsake Me

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WHEN MY FATHER AND MY

MOTHER

FORSAKE ME

Crossroads to the Cross

by Florencia C. Miller and Henry T. Miller, Jr.


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WHEN MY FATHER AND MY MOTHER

FORSAKE ME

Cross Roads To The Cross

Copyright 1997 by Florencia C. Miller and Henry T. Miller, Jr.

All rights reserved.

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any

form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including

photocopying and recording, or by any other information storage

or retrieval system, except as may be expressly permitted by the

1976 Copyright Act or in writing from the publisher. Requests for

permission should be addressed to ELDRA Publishing, P.O. Box

199, Webster, NY 14580-0 199

Printing by CDS

Rochester, NY

Binding by Olde Ridge Book Bindery

250Goodman StreetRochester, NY 14607


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Authors Statement

Our purpose in writing this book is first to honor and glorify the

name of Jesus Christ by identifying how He worked sovereignly in one

persons life to show his grand power. We desire to leave a message

that shows a driving force in our lives that make us as we are and thatHe is supremely worthy of our love and allegiance.

Where we depict sin, it is not to be glorified. Gods grace is to be

seen against that backdrop. Truly we do carry this treasure in earthen

vessels. Where we mention people in sin and distress, our intention is to

be compassionate rather than condemning, without lessening the

seriousness of sin.

The chronicles in this book are built around a factual skeleton as best

we are certain or can imagine, knowing that the actual facts are dimmed

by years of memory or of the telling by people that are now long dead.

When I was beginning my Christian walk with vague, undefined

ambitions to be creative and do something of renown, I tried to define

my purpose in life. My pastor at the time, Rev. Floyd G. Ellis, Sr. said,

Henry, maybe your sole purpose in life is to be Florencias husband. Isuppose he meant in a true sense to husband, keep, care, and nurture her

as my prime objective in life.

That assessment never did satisfy my desires to accomplish

something great and to make a name for myself. As I began in earnest

to work on this story, the more submissive I became to the Lord about

the idea Pastor Ellis suggested many years before.

Now that I am confident of this my purpose and as I have

surrendered myself to Him for this purpose, he has granted me a peace

of heart and mind that I never enjoyed before. Truly, now I can say,

Jesus satisfies my soul.

Henry T. Miller, Jr.


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When my father and my mother forsake me,

then the Lord will take me up.

Psalm 27:10

Dedication

King David prayed, (Psa 71:18 KJV), Now also when I am old and

greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed thy strength

unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.

Davids prayer has become my prayer, and this book is Gods answer, inpart, to my request.

We dedicate this book first to the King of Kings, Jesus Christ, to

whom we owe everything, and to His honor and glory. Then wededicate it to this generation: Our children, Evangalene Hunter, Linda

Conroy, Davis Miller, Rosalina Boehm, Alisa Zavala, and their spouses;

then to our grandchildren: Kimberly Roles, Jon Hunter, Renee McKane,

Michele Heaster, Matthew McKane, Leslie Miller, Davis Miller, Jr.,

Aaron Miller, Angela Miller, Daniel Finch, Madeline Boehm, two

unnamed Zavala children we earnestly look forward to meeting in

heaven; our great-grandchildren, that which is to come: Bobbie Roles,

Britney Roles. Our hope is that they will construct their lives to reflect

their spiritual heritage as well as their direct heritage.

This book is also dedicated to all those to whom we owe our spiritualheritage: our parents, our relatives and the spiritual leaders whom God

has used to guide us in our development.

Then we dedicate this to each one who reads it in the deep desire

that you will find the King of Kings both your guide in life and the

anchor of your soul in this life and that, which is to come.


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Table of Contents

Chapter Title Page

Prologue

1 Florencio 001

2 Judgment Day 005

3 Foundling 0084 Ill Be Good 014

5 Walking, Walking 019

6 Nice Lady 026

7 Acquainting 029

8 Adoption Papers 036

9 Visitor 042

10 The Good Years 049

11 The Japanese Come 056

12 Evacuation 064

13 On The Trail 070

14 Desolation At Santa Maria 079

15 Hungry Road Back 092

16 End Of The Road 105

17 Nowhere To Go 116

18 Shred Of Hope 127

19 A Promise Kept 137

20 The City 144

21 New Experiences 155

22 What To Do With Felix Tomao 169

23 The Accident 184

24 Extreme Avenues 201

25 Man From My Dream 215

26 Dreams Reality 228

27 My News 238

28 Thy People Shall Be My People 25329 Journey Into The Unknown 266

30 Waiting And Reunion 275

31 College And Family 281

32 Traveling Mercies 285

33 Settling Down 294

34 Into My Fathers Arms 303

Closing Word

Final Verse

Glossary


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List of FiguresFigure Caption

1 Encias six month journey

2 Roadside farm house

3 Encia approaches the big hut

4 Farmers watering their carabao5 Encias geneology

6 Florencias journey on the run

7 Florencia at age 18 after the accident

8 Florencia and girls at the American compound

9 Florencia at age 19 first dating Henry

10 Mrs. C.C. Sadler in her living room

11 Henry at Clark Field

12 Florencia waiting to be married

13 Florencia celebrates at Luneta after the wedding

14 Florencia greets Henry at Kaligtasan

15 Florencia waiting to board the SS General Gordon

16 Mama and Daddy Miller in 1950

17 Florencia and Evangalene waiting for Henry to come home18 Florencia and Henry proudly holding Linda

19 Florencia and Henry on graduation day

20 Burruss Hall, VPI, on graduation day

21 Florencia and Davis, our third child

22 Our little family at Rush Avenue, Binghamton, NY

23 Visiting Grandpa and Grandma Miller

24 The back trail on the way to Baguio, PI


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Prologue

I wont be meeting you any more.

Guellerma pulled him close by his barong tagalog bunched tightly in

her hands. She pressed her lips to Florencios. Dont be ridiculous, I

know what you like--what you need.No, he murmured and closed his eyes while inhaling the heady

scent of the coconut oil in her black hair.

She giggled, and loose petals floated to their feet once she crushed

him against the bamboo trees. In the distance the laughter of children

could be faintly heard on the still evening air.

Stop! Theres no easy way to tell you. Florencio tensed. Im in

love with Lydia Corpus.

Color drained from her cheeks. What about the times you

whispered my name in the banana grove? You couldnt have loved her,

too.

He reached out when her arms dropped to her sides. Lydia was just

a friend then.

She pushed his hand away. You traveled nearly fifty miles to her --all the while I waited, hoping youd come to me.

Guellerma, I never meant to hurt you. He looked down. Are you

quite sure youre pregnant?

She touched the subtle swell of her abdomen. Three months, I

think, but what do you care? You plan on leaving me.

I want you to understand that you wont face this alone even after

Ive married Lydia.

She clenched her fists. What I understand is that her inheritance

will make you the most prominent man in her village.

Money and property have nothing to do with it; we love each

other.

Guellermas lower lip quivered. I know how the other boys look at

me; you could learn to love me instead.Its no use-- His gaze lowered to her flimsy sarong. --if you

hadnt kept after me, this might not have happened.

Ill help you to forget Lydia once were together as a family.

He frowned. Its too late.

With fiery eyes, Guellerma kicked the dirt. Well see about that!

She shoved him hard and stormed past. You cant use me and

humiliate me, too.

He caught the bamboo knuckle that slid from her hair when she fled.

Mark my words, Florencio Cacayan, youll suffer!


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I already do, he whispered.

The slender girl ran through the moist grass until she dropped

amongst entwined pepper vines. She coughed and retched as was

becoming frequent now with her condition. He has to be persuaded; I

cant go through this alone. Guellerma lay longing to escape her barrio

in Cagayan Valley with its nearby mountains of Luzon, Philippines.

Florencio might have run away with me to some exciting port, perhapsto Aparri to the north. There aboard a coastal ferry we could have put

the island of Luzon behind ifitwerent for Lydia. I want a better life,she decided, I want to see what the large cities might have to offer.

It was difficult not to envy the hearty villagers comprising Lydias

barrio. That old twenty-six-year-old and her plantation--shell never

sharecrop like people here in Balatunang. She considered Lydias

green thumb and abundant harvests. I dont doubt her cattle, pigs, and

chickens are all fattened. The only pets we seem to have are rats

scratching underneath the hut each night. Gorio called into the night.

Im coming, Brother, she muttered and immediately remembered

Grandmothers chicken. It was best she hang it in its basket beneath the

elevated thatch-roofed hut that was their home. It would be safe there

from the teeth of foraging rodents. She rose and shook damp sprigsfrom her skirt. Virgin Maria, help me to find the words to tell Gorio

about the baby.


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1

Florencio

The dwindling rainy season brought September, 1928, to a close.

With it, a visit from three familiar men came unexpectedly. Florencio

Cacayan! Come down.The young man rubbed his eyes and rose from the abaca mat.

Although he attempted to tiptoe quietly to the huts small thatched

verandah, his grandparents stirred.

Florencio fumbled with his threadbare cotton shirt before leaping to

the cool earth. Good morning, Godfather.

Bartolomeo nodded.

What may I do for you?

Antonio followed down the bamboo ladder to ensure that his twenty-

one-year-old son would help to work his hectare of beans.

Bartolomeo appeared serious. Florencio, Felix wants to speak with

you.

The head elder wants to see me?

Guellerma went to him last night.Florencio swallowed hard. What about?

She claims that shes pregnant-- He lowered his voice. --that you

forced her.

Grandmother Chrysynthia gasped from one lofty window.

Godfather, youve known me since birth-- He blinked repeatedly.

--I couldnt do such a thing.

Her story is that she was ashamed to come forward when it

happened. Bartolomeo pursed his lips. Everyones well aware that

you two often wandered unchaperoned. If youve fathered a child, then

take up your responsibility as a man.

Moises and Juan agreed.

Florencio looked to the accompanying men. He pondered their

words and worried that Felix might take the distorted tale to Mr.Castilio, the mayor.

Moises grasped his arm. Come with us now.

The young mans pulse quickened. Father! Do something.

Bartolomeo turned to Antonio. Let him go, Brother.

Antonio stood silently then nodded. Son, be brave and go with

them. I believe youll straighten this out.

Florencio obeyed. He was not prepared to disappoint his mother,

Florentina, after glimpsing her figure across the rice field.

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Florentina came humming from the flooded stream. It may be a dryday after all, she reckoned. She grunted and shifted the bamboo rod

resting heavily across her shoulders. Water spilt from clay jugs

suspended by thongs from the bamboo rod. She rested her load once she

spotted her son.I wonder where Flor is off to. She shrugged and tipped

her straw hat to wipe her brow. Yes, itwont be long, dear, before

youre married to Lydia. Your father has kept you working our fieldslong enough. She envisioned her people gathering near Lydias home to

witness the young couples wedding vows. Well eat traditional lechon

and dance until dawn.

A blossomed marigold caught her eye, so she plucked its stem.

Mother loves these.

Mother loves these, repeated a macaw.

Florentina shook her finger at the flaming red parrot perched in one

mango tree. Careful, or youll become Flors wedding gift.

It flitted to another branch as though comprehending.

Thats a fine idea; red is his favorite color. She grinned and

positioned her jugs to move on.

>

Felix gorged on an array of fruits when the men arrived at his

shanty. His breathing labored with every bite. Come in. He motioned

to them but remained seated. Young man, you were wise to come. Ill

get to the point. He clicked his tobacco-stained teeth and bit the end

off a stale cigar. You know that your family is respected among our

people, correct?

Florencio nodded to the paunch elder.

Guellerma and her grandmother want you to set things right--

--what she told you isnt true!

This village has eyes. Felix rolled the cigar between thumb and

forefinger. Theyve seen how cozy you two were at several provincial

fiestas.

Florencio sighed.

The girls pregnant and claims that its your seed she carries--that

you forced her.

Sir, I would never force her. If any thing, she pressured me to meet

her alone many times.

Ha! tell that to her grandmother. Were peacekeeping men--not

the kind to violate our women, and you know the laws for all

surrounding barrios. Shes young but is willing for you to marry her.

I cant--

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--Personally. I dont care what you decide to do. Felix shrugged

and eyed the remaining papaya slice. He licked his lips. Listen, your

own Ilocano people will side with her once word spreads. His eyes

narrowed. Go on, marry her, and father her child, then all can be

forgotten.

Florencio shook his head.

This situation could become ugly if the mayor handles it. Is thatwhat you prefer?

I cant spend my life with a woman I dont love.

The teak wood table swayed with a bump from Felix muddied boot.

Do as you must. He snorted and resumed eating.

Bartolomeo released Florencio to return home until he received

further word on the matter.

Once he stepped from the shanty, the young man fled in the opposite

direction. He ran eight miles almost nonstop to the first crossing point

of the Magat River.

Joses legs dangled in the water when his cousin arrived. Good!

Youre here to help me. Flor, the catfish are cowards today, and my

children will starve at the rate Im going. He tossed his length of twine

into the fresh water for the umpteenth time.Florencio dropped next to him on the bamboo flat. Whew!

Jose shook his head. Dont tell me you ran the whole way here.

He wiped his face on his shirtsleeve. Uh-huh. Would you take me to

the other side?

You didnt come to fish then. Is your love waiting for you today?

Florencio nudged him. Come on, its important--Im in trouble.

Jose winked. For you, its always important. If it werent for me

and the netted crabs I trade for beef, Lydia wouldnt know you exist at

all.

Im sure youll remind me for the rest of my life. He patted Joses

shoulder. Now, what do you say?

Jose squashed a mosquito and added it to his worthless mound of

bait. Why dont you ask Simon? He looked about, but the river-

mans canoe was nowhere in sight. Okay, Ill take you. Im going to

miss the big one though.

Florencio rolled his eyes. Cousin, tomorrow Ill bring corn bits and

show you how to properly empty this river.

They laughed and rowed together across the smooth current.

On the opposite bank, Florencio greatly reduced the forty-mile trek

to Lydias hacienda by leaving the main road. He set out along the

usual shortcuts with one question turning again and again in his mind.

How do I break my predicament to her?

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He ran for some time and wriggled up a tilted tree. Near the top, a

coconut dropped. It crashed and drizzled milk down a rock when he fell

with a thud. Oosh! His elbow was skinned and pants torn. Then he

cupped the cracked shell to his mouth. It came up empty. This is not

my day.

One day Ill own sandals as city folk, he determined and kicked the

coconut up the path. Considering the distance remaining to go, heconcentrated on Lydia instead of his sore feet.

>

Goodnight, Gloria, no one makes adobo more delicious than

yours. The shadows darkened when Lydia parted with her employed

friend outside the cooking house. She crossed the adjoining bridge to the

main house and whistled for her dog. Mr. English, where are you?

She whistled again before he barked along the village road.

He was leaping up and down in front of Tutos wagon.

Come, Mr. English! she called.

The dog continued barking at another figure on board.

Lydia squinted hard. Florencio! She breathed deeply and ran fullspeed to greet him. What a surprise!

Florencio leapt down and swung her into the air. Ive missed you.

Lydia blushed. Tuto, you can unload the lemons tomorrow.

Thank you, Miss Lydia. Goodnight.

She led Florencio up to the house. Youve come far; you must be

hungry.

Truthfully, Tuto split his fish dinner with me. Im lucky I caught

him before he left the orchard. He took her hand. I still get lost miles

away without you by my side.

She chuckled. Be patient, love, it wont be long before you roam

Santa Cruz as if youd always lived here.

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2

Judgment Day

Tucked in the Cagayan Valley of the Isabela province, the remote

village of Balatunang would never be the same. Now that Felix hadhastened to Mr. Castilio, the villagers brought Florencio by the river to

the small town square.

Ill never abandon you, promised Lydia. She stood beside him

when the affectionate local villagers had finished gathering themselves

to witness the simple trial arranged for him.

In less than an hour, the mayor weighed Guellerma de Ia Cruz

detailed testimony. Florencio Cacayan, on the grounds that you have

contributed to the moral degradation of a minor, I find you guilty of

statutory rape as charged. You will be hanged this day as a public

example.

Not my only child! cried Florentina. She fell to her knees,

sobbing, while Antonio clutched his chest.

Florencio, please save yourself. Lydias eyes pleaded.

He raised his chin. Youre the only woman I love; I wont marry

her. If I cant live with you, Lydia, I wont live without you.

I hate you both, hissed Guellerma.

Moises and Juan seized Florencio and dragged him closer to the

nearby Magat River. They tossed a heavy hemp rope over one limb of a

tamarind tree and bound his hands. With that done, they lifted him onto

a sturdy bamboo crate.

The ropes noose swung in the breeze while the crowd slowly lined

the waters bank.

Gorio appeared and touched his best friend. Im sorry, Flor, the

mayor insists that I honor my sister.

Florencio glimpsed Guellermas grandmother with her grave stare. How could I let this happen? Guellermas only fifteen-years-old and

carrying my child. He looked to the vivid blue clouds after the mango

tree-covered hills imprinted his mind. What will become of the baby?

Guellerma peeked through a distant Sampanguita bush, and he

shifted from one blistered foot to the other. Those flowers and the sweet

cloying smell of their night-blooms are why Im standing here today. It

took all the courage he could muster to resist flinging off the rope and

making a run for it.

Gorio squeezed his shoulder. This is it, Flor. Wont you do what

the people want? Change your mind now--maybe theyll be forgiving

and yet let you live.

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Hardship enveloped life in this exotic river valley, but Florencio was

bred from hard-working industrious people who seldom complained.

Their Oriental-Spanish ancestry strengthened the Ilocano communitys

survival rate though centuries of wars and disputes. No matter the

circumstance, they strove for harmony and loyalty.

Florencio wept. I've disappointed everyone.

Felix moved beside the mayor and signaled sharply with his hand.Gorio formed the sign of the cross before his chest and hugged

Florencio tightly. Im sorry; God be with you. With trembling hands,

he slipped the noose about his friends neck.

Mr. Castilio had stressed to him, minutes earlier, that the knot be

precisely placed. This would ensure that Florencios neck would break

cleanly. Any mislocation of the knot would only prolong his agony.

Guellermas heart ached. She still crouched behind the bush.

Florencio, I never meant for you to come this far. Please, believe in my

love, and give up now.

Florencio's mouth went dry when he looked to his family.

They huddled about Lydia in horror.

On the mayors cue, Moises and Juan clasped the extended rope and

pulled with all their might.Groans resonated though the crowd when Florencio jerked into the

air.

He gasped with pain.

Stop! shrieked Guellerma. She lunged forward, and Lydia clasped

her temples when Florencio twisted and choked.

Gorio covered his face. The knot isnt tight enough.

Florencio's mouth widened when red and white streamers exploded

before his eyes. The sturdy branch creaked strangely while he oscillated

between life and the hereafter. Lydia, he croaked before darkness

shrouded his mind, and his rigid form relaxed in surrender.

When the villagers were positive that Florencio was gone, they

dispersed to their huts to mourn.

Lydia wiped her tears. Felix, would you please cut him down?

Guellerma dropped to the grass and wailed while others lowered

Florencios remains.

Come back! dont leave me. She rocked back and forth at the

corpse feet.

Gorio touched her shoulder only to have her shake him off.

Youve done enough, Child, said Chrysynthia, step aside. Were

taking my grandson home.

Her husband, Domingo, nodded.

Guellerma cursed Lydia who appeared a tower of strength. This is

your fault! I have nothing now. I hate you and Florencio, too.

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Lydia looked to her with great sympathetic eyes.

Dont hate, required Gorio, let his spirit go in peace from this

place. He lifted his sister to his bosom when Lydia requested a cotton

sheet be brought from her belongings.

She whispered her offer to Florentina. Your family can wrap the

body and use my cart to carry him home.

Guellerma abruptly turned. Get away! hes not yourresponsibility.

I dont wish to upset you, but we should act quickly.

Gorio agreed and pulled Guellerma, kicking and crying, in the

direction of their home.

Lydias brow creased. This will never end for the poor girl. She

crossed herself and earnestly prayed that the future would bring her an

opportunity to raise Florencio's child.

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3

Foundling

Guellerma tossed and turned in her tangled sheet. It clung to her

sweat-drenched body while she strained to breathe the humid air. One

hand brushed her parched lips. Florencio! She bolted upright,propelled back to consciousness by the sound of his name. It was just

another bad dream of the man for whom she still longed.

She believed her time had come and whimpered from the cramps in

her belly. With clenched teeth, she eased from the damp woven mat to

crawl past her grandmother.

The contractions intensified as streams of dawns light seeped

through the hut.

As Gorios rooster crowed, she clutched her lower back. It continued

sounding from his familys hut while she wound her long, coal-colored

hair into a knot.

Grandmother slept on even when bamboo slats cracked while she

inched carefully across the floor. She paused to rest, but with another

pang, she lurched on to the veranda. Guellerma popped her head outsideand maneuvered onto the huts bamboo ladder. Ay, ay, ay. Sweat

beaded her brow as she stepped upon each rung to the ground below.

The sight of the stream appearing bare of early village risers made her

sigh. The coast is clear.

Guellerma decided on Gorios cornfield as the best available shield.

She knew his harvesting routine and was relieved to stumble through the

stalks alone. It was there she felt sure to be unnoticed even with the

rising suns broadening rays.

At length, she dropped in a clearing to rest and wait. The pain was

sharply intense now, so she tossed several stones aside to ease onto her

back.

A distant dove cried, and the faint smell of carabao dung wafted in

the breeze.Guellerma wrinkled her nose and tried to relax when the baby kicked

harder. Mamma, Marie, I need you now. Grandmother is old and

doesnt understand me. She squeezed her lower muscles and tried

vainly to remember her parents who had passed away from an unknown

disease shortly after her own birth.

Her teeth gritted with steady contractions, so she thought about

Ernesto instead. He was sixteen-years-old, too, and often offered to

father her baby. She sneered. He is just a silly boy--unlike Florencio

who proved his manhood to our entire village by his mature behavior.

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The pain quickly became unbearable, and she fought the urge to

scream. She pawed the dirt for a stray twig and shoved it between her

teeth. When she bit down, her moans deepened.

Guellerma, when the time comes, breathe steadily and deeply, in

sync with the rhythm of your tribulation. That instruction from the

village shaman sounded simple enough several months ago but lacked

sense now with each racked breath.Saint Christopher, spare me! she hissed. Her heart beat wildly

while she coughed and retched. Why? she cried and pounded her

fists. The soil caked her cheeks when she writhed from side to side. It

were as if some superhuman strength pulled her in two.

When the small form finally burst forth onto the dry sod, she lay

weeping and exhausted. Bythe time Gorio finds it, hell believe it was

stillborn. I wont look at the thing, she decided and tore herself loose to

crawl away.

>

The March sun now baked another of Gods blessings. It squirmed

with feeble cries from among the corn stalks.Meanwhile, Gorio whistled while turning another row. He

concentrated on preparing ground to plant additional rice when his

carabao came to a halt. What is it, Brute?

The beast snorted at a rock blocking his path.

Gorio dropped the reins and leapt over his simple plow to remove

the mound. He pushed and pulled before brusquely tossing it over his

head. Aahh!! In an instant his feet slipped out which caused him to

land hard on his buttocks. He sighed. Dont make a sound, Brute.

When the carabao looked away, sleepy-eyed, he chuckled.

Brute cocked his massive horned head when a painted pigeon echoed

a not-so-distant cry.

Gorio strained to hear. There it is again, he thought and ran across

the garden. He followed the cries straight to the cornfield. After

minutes of beating through the stalks, he reached the clearing. Ay! he

gushed. At the sight of a curious field mouse scuttling away from the

small being the man stopped short.

Beetles and ants crawled everywhere.

With infant in arms, Gorio rushed to the stream and plunged it into

the cool, shallow water. The hungry blanket unleashed, and he wiped

its nose and mouth of excess mucus. Who do you come from, little

one? His eyes combed the bamboo trees but found no one in sight.

The baby began trembling.

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Okay, whispered Gorio. He pulled his shirt off and gently patted

it warm and dry. When he peered into its tiny swollen face, he couldnt

help but weep. It was as if his beloved lost friend were reincarnated into

his very arms. Gorio looked to the skies. Flor, if you can hear me, you

have a beautiful baby girl.

He held the tender bundle to his chest and set off for home. Tarong

will know what to do, he said aloud. Ugly thoughts filled his mind.How could Guellerma abandon an innocent baby this way? He circled

the familiar shortcut to his nipa hut. I suppose I should have expected

this much from her.

Tarong was tossing clumps of kangkong into a bowl when her

husband broke through the trees. She stopped humming as Gorio

whisked the child up the ladder to her side.

Tarong, I need your help.

Her jaw dropped when he unwrapped his shirt. Where did you find

her?

Gorio nodded to the east. She was crying in the cornfield.

Tarong shook her head and touched the infants swollen, pink welts.

Together, they pushed the bowl of swamp cabbage aside and made

room for the newborn on the worn worktable.Tarong drew her breath. Precious little one, what happened? She

formed the sign of the cross and kissed her fingertips before touching

them to the babys wrinkled forehead. Fresh water soothed as she

applied some to the infants insect bite-dotted limbs.

The baby whimpered with each gentle stroke.

Meanwhile, Gorio sterilized a sharp knife over one lit candle. He

managed to trim and tie the umbilical cord that Guellerma had bitten in

savage haste.

Tarong waited for him to finish before applying a pungent salve all

over the soft form. The healing balm was a gift from the village

shaman, which all the mothers treasured.

Gorios brow creased. Is this all right to use?

Yes. She kissed his cheek. Its been diluted for the children.

He shuddered and prayed that the massive bites wouldnt backlash

into a fever. The outcome could be fatal. I dont know how long she

was out there, he said, but by her condition, thanks to The Father, it

may have only been a short time.

Tarong also thanked God above. Virgin Maria, too, she added.

Gorio leaned close. She surely has Flors features, he mused when

she struggled to open her glazed chestnut eyes. Well name her

Florencia, he stated after recalling the tragic day his best friend died.

And well have her baptized properly, too.

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Of course, agreed Tarong. She nuzzled the baby with a smile.

There will be no more swimming in the stream for you until youre

much older.

Gorio went to the verandah and drew his spare shirt from the twine

clothesline. Im sorry to leave, but for now I need to return to my

work. Ill speak with Guellerma tonight.

Tarong nodded. Well need milk.Okay, is there anything else I can do before I leave?

Tarong looked to their two small boys napping in one corner. No,

sweetheart, everything here is under control.

Gorio looked out across his leased land. I wonder where old Brute

has wandered off to this time. Hes probably soaking in some mudhole.

She grinned. Hes probably torn up the plow again, dragging it

around.

Gorio spotted the beast and slid down the ladder.

Tarong watched him go as she cuddled the baby tightly. She

wondered whether this years harvests would satisfy their landlords

greed. It was always difficult to ask others for bits of food whenever

they came up short. Although the villagers would never refuse to help,

she resolved to pray harder.Gorio called to the carabao waiting in the shade. What have you

gotten yourself into? He squinted at the toppled plow. I suppose

theres not much damage this time. He straightened the crude

equipment to resume work and tried to make sense of Guellerma. Had

she strategically planned for me to happen upon the foundling?

Shes been strong-willed since birth, he muttered. Through the

years hed grown weary of his young sisters rebellion. Tarong is a

good mother, so Im sure we can find a way to provide for one more

child.

By late afternoon, he drew past the cornfield and considered

Guellermas sin. What would she have to say for herself?

>

Why didnt you just leave it?! cried Guellerma.

Gorio paced his grandmothers darkened verandah. Sister, she

would have died out there--

--she, she--dont tell me. Guellerma cupped her hands over her

ears. I dont want to know.

He yanked her hands down. You dont even know that you bore a

little girl? How could you leave her like that? Grandmother, say

something to her.

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The woman shook her head and sat to catch her breath. Child,

youve done a terrible thing. That baby is your responsibility.

Guellerma shook one fist. Gorio, dont even think of bringing it

here. To me, it doesnt exist. She flounced down on her mat.

Gorio breathed deep. All right, Ill keep her. Its probably the best

thing I could ever do for little Florencia since youll never be fit to raise

her.Guellerma glared up at him. Florencia?! Why did you go and

name her that? You could have named her after Mamma.

He rubbed his head. You know that baby is not to blame for your

problems. If I were you, Id come to my senses and be grateful that

shes still alive after all.

Grandmother raised one hand. Stop squabbling, both of you.

Guellerma, pour fresh water and clean yourself up, and Gorio, you go

home to rest now. Whats done is done. She looked sternly at the girl.

Well let God be the judge of things to come.

The months followed with Gorio slowly distancing himself from his

sister. He still brought beans and husked corn to supplement his

grandmothers garden produce but vowed never to tell Florencia the

truth. It would only be a source of pain and confusion.Ive been straining rice milk for little Encia to drink, Tarong

stated one morning. She was far past breast-feeding now that their sons,

Lordrigo was nearly two, and Sator was three-years-old.

Gorio watched her carefully squeeze soup droplets into the infants

mouth from a rolled banana leaf.

She said, This will have to do. Canned milk is hard to get even if

we could afford it.

As long as Encias able to grow, he returned.

Before many months passed, the couple brought the baby to the

priest at a local mission. Gorios grandmother was the only other

witness to Florencias water baptism.

As orphanages were virtually non-existent in the Isabela province,

the couple committed themselves to the child as her godparents.

We promise to raise her as our own, vowed Gorio.

The priest approved by crossing the infant with his blessing and

praying that her guardian angel would ensure her safety and survival.

Thereafter, the family of five continued their days in simple fashion.

Florencia grew strong, and by the time she reached the age of five,

she matched the height of her older cousin, Lordrigo.

Mamma, Im hungry, came daily pleas from each sprouting child.

Between meals, Tarong pacified them with bits of coconut or

ripened fruit. She had many chores with the energetic brood often

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underfoot. Be gentle with Encia, shed remind the boys, shes still a

little girl.

Florencia was shy but fearlessly entered each days endless stream of

fun and games with both cousins.

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4

Ill Be Good

Tarong set one of three shallow baskets of mongol beans into Gorio's

cart. You should try to persuade Guellerma to help. Life wont be thiseasy for her once we leave for Fathers barrio.

Gorio wiped his dirty hands down his shirt. I know it.

My fathers going to need all our help; hes still not well. Its

enough to feed three children, but if Guellerma comes with us, shell

add another bowl to his table.

He silently tightened Brutes strap before trudging across the field to

see his sister.

As he approached, Guellerma placed her chicken in its basket.

Gorio, what do you want now?

Sister, I spoke with Jose again. He and his family finally agreed to

sublease the land--well be able to leave Balatunang soon.

She fished in her aprons pocket.

You might get used to helping with chores around here before we

all go.

She lit rolled tobacco from her cooking fire then inhaled.

He wasnt pleased when she blew smoke in his face and giggled.

I havent decided whether Im going with you after all.

Gorio pulled the cigarette from her lips. If youre old enough to

smoke, youre old enough to pitch in.

Ay! What are you doing?

Listen, Guellerma, youre my responsibility. Since Grandmothers

no longer alive, you ought to come with us. Encia is growing fast, so

its time you behaved as her real mother.

I did fine without our mother. She tipped her chin while patting

his shoulder. Im twenty-one now. You dont have to look after me.Thats not the point. Youve lived next door long enough to see for

yourself that Encia poses no threat to you. With time, you could learn

to love her.

She crossed her arms with raised eyebrows.

Dont look at me that way. Besides, we need the help, and you owe

that to my wife.

How many times did I tell you that you should have left the girl

where you found her? Look at her face. I cant live with a constant

reminder of Florencio. She snatched the cigarette back from him. I

may ask Jose if I can stay on. She coughed after deeply inhaling

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smoke. Who knows? I might even take Ramon up on his offer to go

with him to Baguio.

Gorio shook his head. I didnt realize he was back again. You

know, he may be charming, but believe me, yours wont be the only

heart he breaks.She bit her lip and looked away.

You never change. He turned on his heel and strode off.

All three children ran for Gorios cart when he returned.

He immediately secured the small load to distribute amongst several

other villagers. Its not much but the least we can do since theyve

helped us when we needed it.

Tarong agreed. Yes--out of the way, children. She drew each

youngster aside as Gorio smacked Brutes rear.

He peered back over one shoulder. By the way, Guellerma still

hasnt made up her mind what shell do.

Tarong turned away from the children and wept after her husband

left. Gorio and I have cared for Encia since she was born, she

thought, so why cant Guellerma be more helpful? Her daughters nolonger a baby. If things had turned out differently, she may have

married and been able to help provide more food there never seems to

be enough to go around.

She sniffled and gathered scattered pea pods into the drape of her

skirt.

When several fell out, the dancing children unknowingly trampled

them to bits.

Go play elsewhere! She wiped her brow with the back of her hand.

Aunt Rong, are you mad?

The woman glared at Florencia. Im tired, and those were supposed

to be for supper. Ill have to search for oboe roots now to boil since

theres no rice left from breakfast.

Lets play plow instead, suggested Sator. He led the other two to

where Gorios device rested in the adjacent field.

The children pushed and pulled the contraption but were unable to

budge it.

Lordrigo discovered a large stick instead and poked it around in the

dirt.

Youre not doing it right, came Sator. He took the stick and

dragged it along the potato row. This is how we plow. He hunched

over and grunted. Look, Im Brute.

Lordrigo lifted the opposite end and followed. Im Papa. He shook

the stick. Go fast! Brute.

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Florencia came to join in. Now Im Uncle Gorio, she said,

smiling. She reached for her turn, but Lordrigo refused her.

Not yet, its mine.

The two pushed and pulled, wrangling over the stick, while Sator

hobbled along.

When he came to a halt, the dried wood rammed Lordrigos

stomach.Aahh! The boy ran off crying.

Wait! Rigo, Florencia called after him. You can have the stick

back. She and Sator charged behind him to the hut.

When they reached Tarong, she examined Lordrigos cut and

grabbed Florencia. Im tired of reminding you children not to argue!

She spanked the child and flung her onto her sleeping mat. Your own

mother doesnt even want you, so you have to behave! You should be

grateful we even bother to take care of you!

Florencias eyes widened. Aunt Rong had never used words such as

these before.

Mamma, it was an accident, said Sator.

Stay put, Encia, until your uncle returns! The angry woman led

the boys out for chores until nightfall.

Florencia cried and hugged herself tightly. I didnt do anything,

but Ill be good, and Aunt Rong will still love me.

Before long, her sobs turned to a bout of hiccups, and she giggled

with each jerk of her shoulders.

It wasnt until after dark that the family returned with Tarongs

voice growing louder as she moved up the ladder. Its time you set the

childrens rules around here.

Florencia stopped humming to listen.

The woman slammed coconut bowls down onto the table. Shes

getting stronger than Lordrigo and growing even faster. Once were

with Father, I wont tolerate the children misbehaving.

Gorio touched her shoulder. Theyre only children. Im sure thatwhat happened to Lordrigo was an accident.

Do something--do it now. Tarong handed him his leather belt that

hung by the window.

Gorio swallowed hard. I thought you took care of this earlier.

Yes, but she wont learn her lesson unless you enforce it. She

listens to you.

Gorio held the belt with two hands. I know its been difficult,

Tarong, but we shouldnt have to resort to this. Things will get better. I

promise.

She broke into tears. You say that every year, but we couldnt be

much worse. Look at us. Were forever in debt--whether its with our

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landlord or Fathers, and Guellerma stays over there silently turning the

knife in my back.

Im going to speak with her again.

Its not good enough. Look, forget about disciplining Encia. Just

find someone else to take her, or Im going to Fathers without you.

This is too much for me now.

Please dont leave us, he whispered, Ill do what you want. Hereluctantly wound half the belt around his palm. Come for your

punishment, Encia.

Florencia stared at her aunt and uncle. Never before had they

displayed unkindness toward her. She crawled from her corner. Im

sorry, Uncle Gorio, Ill be good.

Its too late for that.

Papa--

--quiet, Sator, or youll be next.

Sator shrank back when Gorio began whipping Florencia.

Just as she cried out, she ducked too soon to wriggle from his grip.

The leather snapped out of his control.

Ouch! Florencia dashed to the verandah after the belts buckle bit

the side of her head, cutting deeply over the bone behind her left ear.The boys wailed when she tripped.

Look what you brought on yourself now! Tarong immediately

dragged her back to her mat.

Florencia could barely hear the boys whispering something about her

blood-smudged ear when they ran to her side.

Let her sleep now; shell be fine tomorrow. Tarong urged the

family to sit down to dinner while Florencia lay whimpering.

That night, the room spun. She wanted to throw up. She moaned

and covered her eyes through the long hours, unable to sleep.

At daybreak, the child rose for the meager morning meal. The room

blurred when she pressed the pulsating lump behind her ear. Aunt

Rong, she whispered. Gorio and the boys had apparently eaten earlier

and left, so she crept to the table.

Tarong placed a bowl in front of her. Are we doing better, today,

Encia?

She sat on her stool and nodded. After picking at the cooled potato,

she was unable to swallow any. Bits rolled off her tongue back into the

bowl. Im not hungry; I dont feel good.

Tarong knocked the bowl off the table and pushed her against one

wall. I told Gorio you were ungrateful! Now, go outside!

Florencia went to the verandah. I wont stay where Im not wanted,

she decided before crawling down the ladder. Outside, everything

appeared hazy. As she turned about slowly, Uncle Gorios occasional

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reminder came to mind. You are never to go to that hut over there past

the cornfield. It was forever off limits.

She sighed and unsteadily headed for the village road where the sun

quickly baked her head. The urge to vomit returned, and she frowned.

Ill just go somewhere to die by myself.

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5

Walking, Walking

The narrow road was unfamiliar, but the tender five-year-old felt

unafraid.

Up ahead, a woman carried fruits and vegetables in the direction ofthe next village. For this was Market Day in Murong.

The childs head still ached while she followed close behind the

woman and several other strangers. They walked and walked for some

time before the gravel-strewn road grew slightly wider.

It was at this point that more people appeared from various paths.

They drove carabao- drawn carts along the same course but drew close

to the roads edge when large trucks lumbered by.

Florencia stared curiously after those strange trucks. To her they

were odd-looking carts with roofs. They bumped past more noisily, and

she wondered how their carabao had pulled loose. Looking about, there

were no stray animals to be seen.

She smiled and thought draft animals must have run to hide in the

forest. The distance those roofed carts were able to roll was amazing,but she felt the farmers should jump off in case their carts were to crash

into a tree.

She shrugged the idea off when a horse-drawn cart passed. It too

was loaded with people and their goods to sell.

By the time Florencia reached Murong, she resolved that it must not

be time for her to die. She did long to rest though after spotting a girl

her height by a vegetable cart. Her spirits lifted, so she immediately

went to the other girl. Im Encia, do you want to play?

The girl nodded. Im Nina. She broke her rice cake in two to

share with her new friend.

The girls played together all day while Ninas mother sold

vegetables from her cart.

When the time came for the market to close, Nina and her motherprepared to leave. They steered their two-wheeled cart for home with

Florencia following behind on foot.

Mamma, Mamma! cried Nina, Let Encia get in the cart with

me.

The woman slowed her carabao to look back. Where is your

mother, little girl?

Florencia came and looked up with winsome gaze. I dont have a

mother.

The womans expression softened, and without another word, she

took Florencia to their barrio.

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There, Florencia ate, slept, and played with Nina several more days.

When the family left the village to visit their grandmother, Florencia

was left behind.

She was happy to swim about in the local stream and play freely

around the neighborhood. It was easy for her to understand that there

were other children, like herself, without parents. They were often fed

rice and sheltered by strangers. Since these strangers were kind enough,she reasoned it best to stay with the main road in search of a welcoming

new home.

Oddly enough, other than Gorio and Tarong, Balatunang villagers

were unaware of the childs disappearance. Therefore, no one bothered

to send out a search party. It is unknown how Gorio and Tarong

accounted for Encias absence as the months passed.

Along the little girls journey, one woman fed Florencia rice and

vegetables and noted her injury. Child, youre burning up with fever.

She then cleansed the cut above Florencias ear to bandage it. You

sleep here tonight, and tomorrow well find out where you live.

Florencia curled up with the womans daughters at sundown but

crept away at first light. I dont want to go back to Aunt Rong, she

decided, she doesnt want me. Despite her sporadic dizziness, she keptventuring northeast. This route provided plenty of houses, shanties, and

huts to stop to play at.

When the dusty road grew to the width of two lanes, farmers passed

by in even greater numbers.

Florencia noticed as many horses as carabao being used to pull the

vehicles. The familiar clop of hooves didnt frighten the child. It was

when a monstrous, long, shiny thing zoomed toward her that she ran

down to the ditch. It rolled much faster than the carriages, and once she

peeked to watch it roar past, she saw peoples faces filling its many

windows.

She marveled.Maybe theres a faster horse running underneath; I

cant see past all the wheels. From that point on, whenever the long,

noisy thing came rushing, shed cover her ears and run to the security of

the ditch.

Much time passed with the shifting winds being the most significant

change in the weather. The direction of the road determined where she

went, but one evening she met a fork in the road.

There were dozens of carts rolling by with farm-surplus dried

coconut, wine, candies, and candles to be sold for a coming fiesta. Its

almost Christmas! were peoples cries.

Florencia clapped her hands. She was happy that they were happy.

Where are you going? she inquired of a woman passing alone.

Close to the river--to Cabatuen. Will your family be coming?

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Florencias lips parted to answer as a flock of children ran past

shouting and laughing.

The woman waited while Florencia wondered what to do.

Theres good fishing along the Magat River, one man commented

after catching up with another. Well attend Mass in Cabatuen, too.

Will you watch the fights? asked his companion. He tapped his

bamboo cage confining a gamecock.Of course.

The woman left Florencias side to take to the left trail that led

northwest.

The child turned to face the right branch where the road was wider.

Maybe I should go that way, she thought. It was deserted and looked

uninviting, so she turned back to where the others grew smaller in the

distance.

The sky was now quite dark with its stars glistening.

She felt the strongest urging to follow the people. I'm tired and

hungry, she thought, and the man did say there would be good fishing in

Cabatuen. The other man said there would be fights there, too, though.

Images of Uncle Gorio with his stinging belt came to mind. I dont

want to see anyone fighting.One large star flickered when she peered up, and she turned back to

the right branch. Go with them, child, she thought she heard.

Indecisively she hesitated. Go with them, child, the unknown voice

repeated, so she dashed to the left to catch up with the others

>

The Christmas fiesta lasted nine whole days in Cabatuen. People

from different barrios reunited there with relatives and friends. Those

who came only to enjoy the festivities but had no housing rolled out

their mats to rest under each night sky.

The days were filled with Mass gatherings and feasting and

merriment. It all was as nothing Florencia ever experienced before.

Here, no one worried for tomorrow but enjoyed the tradition of

celebrating Jesus Christs birth. He was the saint of the season with

young and old singing songs and playing guitars. Candles also flickered

into the early hours of each morning.

At the start of the tenth day, Florencia woke under one mango tree.

The party was now over with women rousing their husbands whod

been drunk from wine. Wake up, they said, its time to attend the

final gathering.

There, the priest offered all to partake in the sacrament of the Holy

Communion table. Prayers were recited, and more wine was passed

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about with thin rice wafers referred to as ghosts. Afterwards, the

crowd waited out a nonseasonal rainstorm before departing for home.

Florencia watched them go and then went to play around in the mud

with local children.

It wasnt until the sun began to set that the youngsters went to splash

clean in the river.

The brilliant horizons smear of yellows and pinks was a sight toFlorencia before her attention was drawn to one family.

The four stepped into a dugout canoe, which served as a ferry, and

she cocked her head. I wonder where they re going. Maybe there s

another party at the next village.

As she moved closer, Simon, the river-man was speaking. Yes, this

is my last exchange point for the day. In the morning, Ill travel all the

way back down river to Murong.

Florencia silently crawled in beside the group to cross to the opposite

bank.

The air felt cool as it kissed her hot forehead, and the swishing of

water against the oars was comforting.

When she leaned over the edge of the dugout, she saw the water

swelling beneath.

Simon glanced over, too, and his expression turned serious.

Everyone hold tight! The current is getting choppy. He gripped his

oar as the familys father whispered something about not being able to

swim.

The children whimpered and leaned into their mothers embrace.

We should have waited until morning. Simon rowed hard while

struggling to maintain course. I didnt think the river was this

flooded.

Water lapped the canoes sides and splashed them all whereupon

Florencia crouched low in the middle. She closed her eyes and wished

for the rocking to stop.

Simon sighed when his canoe finally bumped muddied rocks. Allashore now! He leapt out first and held the craft steady.

A gentle breeze swayed tamarind trees while Florencia followed the

family out to the main road. She stayed close behind until they turned

down a deserted path. It was strange that they had not spoken to her, so

she wondered if she ought to go along.

Soon they vanished from sight, and she continued on alone.

Florencia cringed when dense trees on either side of the road spoke

with strange night sounds. She looked to the moon with wide eyes.

Several stars glistened, and she believed they winked especially to her.

God is watching up there, she hunched, and will take care of me.

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The child continued her journey, and now and again, a village

turned out to be larger than the last. Florencia felt happy and carefree

with her wound nearly healed.

Each day brought new friends who willingly swam the streams

together or taught her fresh, simple games.

It was one particular day when she started out from Aurora that the

wide main road narrowed to a common two-lane route. Leaving thisvillage seemed quite similar to the day she left Uncle Gorios. She saw

the bamboo groves were now thinning out and noted many people were

driving their goods along the rocky road. Unknown to her, it led to the

next larger town of Callang.

The regions market was ten miles ahead and was said to be already

astir.

When Florencia grew weary with keeping pace, a kind family invited

her to join them in their cart.

Thank you, she murmured and rode with them the final stretch.

The girl was surprised to discover Callangs market to be much larger

than the one at Murong. It was much busier, too, so she immediately set

off to roam the organized rows of openly displayed merchandise. Some

merchants had set up pavilions for protection from the sun or rain.Merchants were already bartering with shouts as they sold standard

rice, fruits, and vegetables. Crates, baskets, and other sacked items were

also stacked for trade throughout the day.

Florencia noted how the men here clustered to smoke dark, strange

smelling sticks. They spoke together while their women gathered their

purchased essentials in heavily woven baskets.

The displays of bright blues, oranges, yellows, and greens appearing

at every turn fascinated the girl. Even bunches of dried red pepper pods

were attractive where they hung from overhead bamboo rods.

A jolly woman reached to snip one down and crumbled it over

simmering chicken and fish. Sample these, and youre sure to be

pleased!

Cooking scents filled the air with their delicious smells, and

Florencias mouth watered at the obvious satisfaction of patrons tasting

fried morsels. Many were easily enticed to buy the womans various

seasoning powders.

When the girl took off after other children, they stopped to watch a

woodcarver expertly whittle toys.

Florencia had never seen toys and longed to touch miniature dolls

and animal statues. When another youngster invited her to one end of

the market, she gladly went to share sweet and delicious rice candy.

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The girls mother sold her treats, wrapped securely in banana leaves,

out of her wagon until sundown. She was friendly and didnt protest

when Florencia climbed into the cart with them to return home to their

village.

After eight miles and four hours of bumping, once again, Florencia

spent another night in a foreign place with a gracious family. She

would have easily stayed on several days had she not wandered off thefollowing afternoon.

While the others worked their daily chores, she went down to the

stream alone. There in the cool water she splashed along the

embankment toward a fertile pasture. Beyond a weathered fence, herds

of brown-spotted cattle interested her. She studied how they differed

from the carabao she usually witnessed towing carts or pulling plows.

Florencia stepped out across the dry grass closer to where the

animals freely grazed unattended.

She moved in intending to pet them but left soon after to pick up a

broken tree branch. She dragged it over uneven thickets while chanting

aloud as Lordrigo had often done in the past. One, two, five. Across

the field she hopped. Four, five, eight. Skip. One, two, nine--

ouch! She plopped down to yank a splinter from her toe.An endless barbed-wire fence separated her and the cows from what

lay beyond. She stared past the fence to a grassy hill with a village

spread out at its base. It was especially green, not brown and green like

most of the smaller villages. Halfway up that small hill stood a strange,

enormous hut.

It's much bigger than Uncle Gorios, she thought, with lots of wood.

The entire thing seemed to be covered with thick, wooden planks. She

pondered why there werent bamboo poles or stones as most huts had.

Also being unfamiliar with tin, to her eyes the roof appeared odd, too. It

was shiny in parts with no palms leafs to be seen.

Unusual red, orange, yellow, and green fruits speckled trees far

beyond the hut. Scattered all about this village were smaller wood plank

huts but with grass roofs instead.

She stood viewing more unfamiliar foliage and crop fields that

stretched out to the foot of some mountains.

In the opposite direction, many boys and girls played past the hill.

They ran laughing along a lengthy white field and plucked white balls

from bushes to fill their pockets.

Florencia hung over the strands and watched them play for some

time. She yearned to understand their game and share their joy.

Unaware that shed traveled walking, walking, nearly fifty miles in six

months time, she considered ending her journey. I would like to live

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there; its nice. With her mind made up, she carefully slipped betweenthe wires of the fence and scurried off, up to the strange hut.

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6

Nice Lady

Florencia arrived near the hut as the children dispersed.

They, unaware of her presence, disappeared into the smaller huts.She looked about her. Who will play with me now?

Field after field spread far and wide with men and women working

various crops.

She sighed when their faint calls were directed to one another

instead of her. Those people smile while they work, she realized, not like

Aunt Rong and Uncle Gorio who only did so once they were finished.

Florencia studied thick wooden pillars that held this enormous hut

higher in the sky than Uncle Gorios. I think more than one family lives

here. It certainly was large enough to house many. After seeing the

many people outside, she decided there must be someone indoors to play

with.

She eyed box after box, joined together, leading from the ground

high up to the front door. She looked about and chose to climb up andknock. Once she approached the boxed steps, a large cinnamon-colored

German shepherd, a white blaze on its chest, sprang from behind one of

the wooden supports.

He snarled and sniffed her, and she froze when his teeth bared.

Lydia Corpus shut her chicken-house gate in time to hear Mr.

English growl intensify.

He moved closer to Florencia.

The woman rushed across the yard to where the two stood fixed.

What is it, Mr. English--whats wrong?

The dog sniffed the child again then lay at Lydias dusty, bare feet.

Good dog. The woman rubbed his neck. Are you lost, little

girl?

Florencia looked up with great chocolate-colored eyes. No--I dontknow.

Where is your home?

I dont have a home.

Lydia squatted before her and continued to speak gently. Why

dont you start by telling me your name?

Encia.

The woman was moved by the young ones warmth and reached to

stroke her hair. Its strange, she thought, this child looks familiar. She

touched the girls soft cheek. Can you tell me where youre from?

Florencia leaned against Lydias bent knee. Uncle Gorio.

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All right-- Lydias eyes widened. --Gorio?

Uh-huh.

She pushed a strand of hair from the girls eye. Could it be? Can

you tell me your uncles formal name--I mean, his last name?

Florencia breathed deeply. Uncle Gorio-- She looked up for the

answer. --de la Coooz.

Its true! Lydia ached to shout. She looks exactly like her father,Florencio. She cupped the childs face. De la Cruz, she whispered

back.

Uh-huh. Uncle Gorio and Aunt `Rong.

Yes, Encia--I know who your aunt and uncle are.

You do? Are you my mamma?

Tears slipped from the womans eyes. No, but youll be okay. My

name is Lydia, and Ill take care of everything.

Florencia stiffened. Are you going to make me go back?

Lydia smiled and hugged the child tight. Dont worry, sweetheart.

Ill take care of everything. Im so glad. .

Shes a nice lady, Florencia thought while curling her arms about

the womans neck.

Lydia carried her up the steps of her house and the pair proceeded tomove through the expansive house. They passed over bright red and

yellow floor mats and around numerous tables and chairs.

On top of many stools, Florencia noticed creme-colored cushions.

To her they were additional mats that had somehow been sewn and

stuffed.

When they passed down a long hall and entered Lydias sleeping

room, to Florencia the bed also seemed to be two massive sewn and

stuffed cloth mats. The puffed pad didnt look flat and rough like her

abaca mat back home. This one was even laid on top of a low table with

several folded sheets placed at one end.

Lydia opened the door to a smaller room filled with clothing and

more sheets and set Florencia down.

The child watched the woman sort through a stack of folded blouses

before selecting a sleeveless smock.

This one should do. Lydia peered down. I dont doubt youre

hungry, Encia, but first Ill bathe you because we like to do that before

sitting down to a meal. She then led her by the hand down to the halls

opposite end.

All along, Florencia noticed more rooms with beds or furniture and

wondered why some sat empty.

The two continued out of the main house and crossed a flat bridge,

with a bamboo floor and hand rails, to the nearby cooking house.

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Lydia slowed her pace for Florencia to carefully advance over each

gap in the decking.

Once inside the open-air cooking house, Lydia removed Florencias

tattered clothes and set her in a shallow tub. Her brow creased when she

peeled away the worn bloodstained bandage from the youngsters

wound. How did this happen to you?

Florencia remained quiet until she was sponged clean from head totoe. Then, she felt confident enough to pour out her story of how she

was injured. She also spoke of many people shed met along her

journeys path.

Lydia absorbed each detail. Its good to hear that they were kind

and generous with you. Youre also a brave girl, Encia. Im glad to

finally know you.

Florencia gripped the nice ladys shoulder while she dried and

dressed the child.

The smock hung long and loose, so Lydia pinned it in various places

to fit the childs delicate form. She then fed her fish stew with

vegetables and led her back over the bridge. Now I know there is a

little girl thats quite tired, so I value your going to bed.

The two went back inside the house past several sleeping roomsbefore choosing the one adjacent to Lydias for the girl to sleep in.

Florencia was set on her own stuffed sleeping mat that felt

comfortably cool and soft when she pushed her legs between its clean

sheets.

Lydia immediately tied the childs shoulder-length hair with a pink

string and laid her head back.

After a few moments, Florencia peered over the edge of the futon

bed. She wondered why this woman would have her sleep off the floor

on a low table. Visions of her disturbing ride across the Magat River in

Simons rocking dugout ferry popped into her mind. Maybe the rains

were heavier here and even poured into the house and across the floor.

She sighed. I dont want to get wet at night.

Lydia sat beside her and rubbed her back. Youll be fine. If you

need to go in the night, you use that over there. She pointed to a

portable potty in the hallway outside the bedroom door.

Florencia nodded. She felt uncertain of the metal container with its

lid. Whats in that bucket at night? she wondered. What if I sleep until

morning and never find out?

Youll be okay, Lydia was saying.

Florencia closed her eyes and wondered if any of the other families

would arrive home soon to this grand hut.

Youre all right--Im right here. Lydia continued massaging

Florencia until she dropped off to sleep.

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7Acquainting

Lydia stroked Florencias hair while she slept. Its a miracle that

she came to me alone. She was overwhelmed as she envisioned the girl

walking on the main road from Balatunang to Santa Cruz. Florenciawould have traveled nearly fifty miles along that route. The girls quite

young, she marveled its only by Gods hand that she ended up here

instead of somewhere far to the north or to the east.

She kissed one small hand and studied each delicate finger. When

the sun completely set, Lydia slipped from the room. She strode to the

open front door and whistled once.

The dog immediately charged up the steps to her side.

Come with me, Mr. English.

He padded with tail wagging down the hall behind his master.

When Lydia stopped at Florencias room, she snapped her fingers

and pointed.

Mr. English obeyed by lying on the mahogany floor in the open

doorway.Its your job to watch over Florencia, she instructed.

The dog looked to where she signaled to the sleeping child.

Thats right, shell be staying with us now.

Mr. English crossed his paws and perked his ears straight up.

Thats a good dog. She touched his nose and left him guarding

the child.

Outdoors, Lydia returned to the cooking house to gather a kerosene

lamp and carried it down the sloping hill past her lengthy flower garden.

She felt content while making her way to the plantations weaving

house.

Clear skies and a slight cool breeze made for a pleasant evening in

February for the villagers to enjoy before the coming rainy season. Yet,

Lydia was simply happy to work after the set of the hot tropical sun.

After the short walk from the main house, Lydia entered the nearby

weaving house. Fresh woven sheeting drew her attention to the back of

her loom, so she cut two yards of the natural gauze and stenciled on it a

dress pattern of her design. The dress would be simply cut with a plain

hem that would reach to the girls ankles. All the while, she formulated

a proposition for Gorio. Ill have to visit him soon. She rubbed her

forehead. It wasnt a task she relished but was grateful for the

opportunity.

It grew quite late before Lydia finished sewing a small dress for

Florencia. She examined the article and decided to embellish it with

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knotted pink rosettes about the neckline. I hope `Encia likes this, she

said aloud while holding it up to the light.

The next morning, Lydia woke heavy-eyed but excited. She dressed

and peeked in on her young guest before rushing to the spring to draw

enough water to carry back to the cooking house. Once she prepared the

morning fire, she fried rice, eggs, and pork strips for breakfast. Her best

friend, Gloria, was the first to arrive as she gathered the foods on abamboo tray.

Gloria snickered. Were awful hungry this morning, eh?

Lydia grinned. This isnt all for me. Listen, I have something to

share with you, but you must keep it to yourself for a while. All right?

Gloria nodded.

Do you remember my telling you once about Florencio's baby girl?

Sure. Gloria scooped several cups of black-eyed peas from a

basket.

Shes here--little `Encia is here now.

What do you mean shes here?

Lydia nodded and poured the last quart of water into a bowl.

Gloria took the empty jug from her. Tell me what you mean?

She simply walked up to the house yesterday. I asked her whereshe was from and learned that shed run away from her uncles home.

She and Mr. English didnt know what to make of each other, I suppose-

-you know hes becoming quite obedient with each new command I

teach him.

Gloria shook her head as she washed vegetables. How can a child

that young appear out of nowhere? Didnt the family look for her?

Lydia shrugged as she continued arranging the childs food on the

tray. I dont know the whole story, but Im planning to go to

Balatunang in a few days to find out.

Promise me you wont go there alone. Gloria immediately began

chopping vegetables. Enough food had to be prepared for the midday

meal to feed the eight village families working the plantation. She

assured Lydia that one of the other women would be able to help her.

You go on and tend to that little girl of yours.

Lydia smiled. If only she really were mine. She picked up the

loaded tray. Well talk more later.

She arrived back inside the house, laid the food on the kitchen table,

and headed straight for Florencias room. I didnt forget you, Mr.

English, but there are no boiled eggs for you today either. She patted

his head and tossed him a fried pork chop. Go outside now. Maybe

you can catch us a deer from the woods for dinner.

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The child woke to the sound of dog nails tapping quickly down the

hail and out of the house.

Good morning, sweetheart. Lydia lifted the girl from her bed.

Did you have a good sleep last night?

Uh-huh. Florencia rubbed her eyes and pulled at her hairs string.

The woman unfastened it as she carried her to the kitchen. Well

bathe for breakfast and then spend time outside together.Without replying Florencia peered about. The room was bright and

airy with white flowers resting in a bowl on the table. She studied the

pretty yellow cloth strips outlining each window while Lydia undressed

her. Maybe the other families living in this hut had already come and

gone while she slept. She listened for others possibly stirring while the

woman rinsed her with water.

Lydia dried Florencia and slipped the newly made white dress over

her head.

The young girl touched its soft pleats and smiled.

It suits you fine. Lydia poured the bath water out one window and

set her in a chair at the table. Lets eat, and Ill show you around the

plantation.

Florencia nodded and bit into a pork strip. Its good."Tell me more about your journey. Where did you sleep at night?

Lydia prompted the child, and after their meal began rinsing their plates

in a bucket on her worktable.

Where they liked me. Then, Florencia came up behind her. Can

I help, too?

Lydias eyes brightened, and she immediately stood the girl on a

chair in front of the washtub. I would love for you to help me. She

placed a bar of soap and a dish scrubber made of a coconut husk in

Florencias hands and showed her how to scrub the dishes clean.

When their job was complete, they stepped from the house together

and crossed the small bridge arching the stream that irrigated Lydias

garden.

Florencia murmured something in a low tone as she glanced back.

What are you saying, Encia?

Florencia repeated her question. Where is your family?

Lydia took her hand. I live alone, sweetheart. My mother and

father are no longer alive. They were ill and died. Do you understand?

She frowned. I think my mamma and papa were sick and died,

too.

Florencias black hair shone in the sunlight while Lydia stroked it.

Well be all right. There are many good people here on the plantation

who work with us and will keep us company.

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They crossed a tobacco field to reach the spring that each family

drew from daily. Water gushed from the ground and ran in rivulets out

across the land to naturally water its crops.

Ill have one of the men take fresh water up to the house so we

wont have to do that today, said Lydia.

They both sipped some from their hands before moving on to the

flower garden.This is my patch of roses. Lydia stepped to one bed and spent a

few moments cutting wilted red and pink flowers from several bushes.

The white ones over here are my gardenias. After trimming one shrub

of its browned blossoms, she cut dead limbs from a vermilion plant.

The child smiled as Lydia tucked a yellow rosebud in her hair.

The two then walked the mile back to the spacious, shaded area

beneath the main house.

Florencia peered at hand-spun pottery pieces and clumped clay

lining a lengthy shelf.

Ill show you how to make a small vase, whispered Lydia, and she

began by demonstrating her craft at a small round table. She sat down

at the table and pointed to the foot treadle underneath. I turn the table

by working this treadle with my foot, like a sewing machine.Florencias eyes widened when Lydias feet moved quickly to spin

the table. Lydia explained, We bring special clay from the mountains.

Then we dry it, pound it, and screen it fine. Then we mix it with water

till it is just right to shape into bowls and things that we can use or sell

at the market. When the woman drew her feet back, the table still

turned while her fingers formed the moistened clay into the shape of a

delicate, flower-bud vase about the height of Lydias hand, narrow in the

middle and larger at its base. Well let it dry before we bake it, and

then you can keep it, Encia.

The next stop was across the yard at a hollowed-out tree trunk. This

was where Lydia and other women pounded threshed rice once a week.

Then they went on to the weaving house where clothing and linens were

sewn. It also contained an area within for cottons to be cleaned, beaten,

and bundled for threads.

This is where I came last night to make your dress. Lydia showed

her a pile of cotton scraps.

Florencia was amazed when the woman took a wad of cotton to a

machine with a large wheel and spun it into a long, thin string before

her eyes.

After some time, they moved on to the framed chicken-house with its

birds nesting or scratching all about the ground within.

The youngster remained close to Lydia when one came pecking near

her.

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Lydia reached into one nest to withdraw a large egg and placed it in

the girls hands. You can hold this one, but remember that if you drop

it, it will crack and be sticky.

Florencia nodded and carried that egg to the barn to see hay and

grain that were stored out of rains way.

They both stepped beyond a heavy door at one end of the building

that led to some pigpens.Piglets were scurrying about, and the child giggled while they

chased after their mother. Theyre pretty, she whispered.

Lydia grinned and tucked Florencias egg in her own skirt pocket.

Ill show you our pineapples, bananas, papayas, mangoes, all the fruit

trees and things like that. There are grapefruits, oranges, sugarcane,

vegetables--you name it.

Papayas that grew to the size of watermelons fascinated Florencia.

She rolled one over that lay on the ground but was unable to lift it.

Two carabao were nearby and harnessed to walk circles about the

plantations sugarcane machine. It was their powerful strength that

turned the wooden press to squeeze the sugary sticks of their juices.

Lydia chuckled when Florencia asked if the animals might become

dizzy.Several workers were now boiling the sweet liquid that dripped from

the spout into a massive wok. It bubbled to a syrup, and a portion was

poured into split coconut molds. Cooled half-shell panutza would later

be wrapped in banana leaves and stored in baskets. These brown sugar

forms would be one of many products sold at the market at Callang.

Lydia explained to Florencia that the remaining liquid would be

preserved in barrels to ferment. The wine would be removed at a later

date, and the remaining thick residue at the barrels bottoms would be

cooked to a whiskey. Some of the beverages would be stored here on the

farm for consumption, and the rest would be taken to Market.

Lydia ended the morning tour on top of one hill where the two easily

surveyed her many herds of Hereford cows from there. See them

grazing in the valley?

Florencia looked to the specks beyond.

Theyre all mine, Encia. She stretched out one sun-darkened arm

and pointed. I received it all after my father passed away. You see, he

was Spanish and my mother was Portuguese. They arrived here to the

Philippine Islands before I was even born. I imagine they met and

married in Spain. She shrugged. Thats something I never thought to

ask about.

Anyway, Father was rewarded his choice of land after fighting in the

Spanish-American War. His people considered him a traitor for

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fighting alongside Americans, but he supported his own firm beliefs. He

was even awarded a Medal of Honor for carrying many soldiers to safety

in the thick of battle.

Florencia reached for the womans hand.

Lydia smiled and held tight. I can only imagine the great honor he

must have felt. She picked the child up and set her on the weathered

fence. To me, my father was strong and stem but diligent. He and mymother worked this plantation from the ground up. They taught me

much since I was your age.

Let me tell you, the ground is fertile enough for the cattle to eat even

during the dry season. Beyond these pastures you can see my tobacco,

cotton, and cornfields. I love looking to the mountains. Arent they

beautiful?

Florencia nodded.

You might not understand all Ive said, but Id be privileged to

teach you everything I know about this place. She squatted before the

girl and looked deep into her eyes. Ive decided to speak with your

uncle, Encia.

Florencia tensed.

Lydia held her close. Dont worry. Ill fix everything. She kissedthe girls cheek then led their way back to the house.

Together, they bathed their dust away and shared lunch in the main

house. Then, Florencia was laid down for a nap.

Lydia was impressed to see Mr. English immediately appear at his

post to stand guard. This spare time allowed her to sew another simpler

dress and a nightgown for the child.

That afternoon, the woman spun more pottery at the potters wheel

while Florencia sat forming balls of clay into different shapes. Usually

we eat breakfast in the house, Lydia told her. Our lunch and supper is

at the cooking house with most of the others, or we take meals to those

working in the fields. Of course, once in a while guests come from other

villages, so we share a formal meal in my dining room.

She handed the child several miniature pots to carry to the shelf to

dry. In time youll come to know the families that live here, too.

Theres Antonio and my close friend, Gloria. They have two children.

Theres also Thomas and Cecilia with three children; Tuto and Carmen

who pray to have children of their own.

Marcos and Mary with four youngsters; Quinto and Anita with one

baby; Tulito and Margarite with five little ones. None of theirs are old

enough to attend the school. Antonio and Sarah have six, and Thomas

and Angeline have three of their own. Im also close to a special couple

in the next village. Thats Maria and Pablo Ramirez. They have three

daughters youd enjoy and one youngest son.

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At dusk, Florencia was fed and tucked back into bed. Lydia read the

child a story of a young girl that went to pick mangoes from a tree.

Its time to turn in, sweetheart, she concluded. She also pointed to

remind her of the portable potty in the hallway.

Florencia snuggled close and shut her eyes. There must be

something good about that bucket. Maybe theres sugarcane syrup

inside if we get hungry at night.

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8

Adoption Papers

Lydia rose as usual at four-thirty a.m. to cut past the barn and hitch a

carabao to her flat wooden sled. With its runners in line and two emptyjugs secured, she rode to the spring. There, she used an empty bucket to

scoop water into the containers while planning the days events.

After returning to cook breakfast, she left the beast at the back of the

house. Its nice having you stay with me, she said to Florencia as she

wakened her. She lift

When My Father and My Mother Forsake Me

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