Cranford

Mrs Brown’s arduous journey with infant Phoebe from India to Calcutta

Mrs Brown recounts her grueling journey carrying infant Phoebe from the Indian upcountry station to Calcutta. With her husband saving his pay and she saving every pice she could from washing and other work, she set off alone with the child, passing through dark, thick forests and along riversides, comforted by the sound of flowing water that reminded her of growing up near the Avon in Warwickshire. An officer’s grieving lady, who had also lost children, gave her a small round picture of the Virgin holding the infant Saviour—their cheeks touching—which became Mrs Brown’s solace when her body was weary and her heart sick. Natives, though they could not understand one another’s words, recognized her motherhood and brought her rice, milk, and flowers. Once, when she and her baby desperately needed rest, God led her to a kind Englishman living in the midst of the natives. Near the end of her journey, she stopped at a native temple to give thanks, feeling that any place where others had prayed in joy or agony was itself sacred. She reached Calcutta safely, served as attendant to an invalid lady who grew fond of Phoebe, and after two years Sam earned his discharge and rejoined them.

Family reunion and the Brunonis’ conjuring career in England

With Sam back and needing a trade, he recalled tricks he had once learned from an Indian juggler and set up as a conjurer. The act succeeded well enough that he brought his brother Thomas in to assist, and the twins’ likeness helped many tricks go over smoothly. Thomas has since set up on his own, but his good nature and useful contributions remain. Mrs Brown still marvels that anyone can mistake Thomas for her husband, as Thomas lacks Sam’s fine carriage.