Murdoch's Promise
Monica Newton
Smashwords Edition
Copyright 2004 Monica Newton
Murdoch's Promise
When the Taylor family woke up that morning, it was with a feeling of dread. The gas bill was overdue and today was the scheduled shut-off.
Mrs. Taylor had tried to make payment arrangements. "I've been sick and not able to work as much. Please give me just a little more time." However, more time was not an option with this company. No amount of pleading would help. It didn't matter that it was wintertime and she had two young school-age children at home.
At five minutes after eight on the first morning of Christmas break, the gas company truck pulled into the driveway. Jimmy Murdoch hated this part of his job, but rules were rules and the Taylor address was scheduled for shut-off for non-payment. Mrs. Taylor gathered up her money and went outside.
"I have fifty-eight dollars and I can get the other seventy-two by the end of the week."
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Taylor, I either have to collect the entire amount or turn it off; company policy."
As they were discussing it, a young boy of about twelve rode up on a bicycle.
"Mrs. Taylor, I'm supposed to give this to you right away and tell you to open it."
He thrust the envelope in her hands. She watched helplessly as the gas man returned to his truck for a tool. With tears in her eyes, she looked at the envelope in her hands. Even in a crisis, human curiosity can take over and did.
She opened the envelope to find several hundred dollar bills. She counted ten. One thousand dollars! Confused, she read the enclosed note. 'Mrs. Taylor, this is not a loan. Nothing is asked of you except to have a merry Christmas.'
The sound of the gas truck starting up brought her back to the moment. "Wait! I have the money!" She ran to the truck. "Please! I have the money! Please turn it back on. Please?"