Today's snippet is taken from
Figgy Pudding by Francine
Old Timey Holiday Kitchen series
Also part of Eclipsed by Love, Books 4-6
1878 Solar Eclipse Inspired Romance Vol. 2
by Zina Abbott
“That’s good to know.” Jason folded his arms and looked to the side. “There has been some speculation among astronomers that she was more interested in advancing women in science.”
For several seconds, Francine stared at Jason in silence. I suspect you were one of those speculating astronomers. “From everything I’ve studied, Miss [Maria] Mitchell is a leader in her field. Thirty years ago she discovered a comet that is named after her.”
“I’m aware she is a leader in our field.” Jason cleared his throat. “I…ah…not knowing her personally, but by reputation, felt she might be more intent on proving women could be good scientists than in advancing the field of astronomy itself. Especially after that ridiculous report by Dr. Clarke that claimed educating women would stunt their growth and cause them to become less feminine―”
“I’ve read the report.” Her voice harsh, Francine’s expression hardened as she stepped away from Jason. “I attended college. I don’t have the same standing as Miss Mitchell, but I’ve studied math and science. I have no idea if I’m able to have children, since I’ve never tried to reproduce. However, in your opinion, have I, as Dr. Clarke claimed, ruined my health and, because I constantly use my brain, turned into a sterile, masculine invalid?”
“No! No, of course not. As far as I’m concerned, his conclusions are rubbish.” Jason wiped his mouth and chin with his palm. “Your intelligence is one thing about you I find attractive. I can talk to you and, rather than agree amiably even though you don’t understand, you know what I’m saying. I think many looked at the fact her entire expedition of scientists were female.”
“Jason, she teaches at an all-female college. I’m sure there are male instructors there, but most of her associates who have graduated from the college and with whom she’s worked are female.” Francine tipped her head to the side. “Tell me, when you went to Rawlins, how many women did you have in your expedition?”
“None. There were just the three of us—myself, Eli, and Rand.”
“The Draper expedition went there, too. How many female scientists were in his group?” Unwilling to let the topic go, Francine leaned toward Jason.
“I recall there were two wives who stayed at the same hotel we did.” Jason cleared his throat.
“Wives? But they were not a working part of studying the eclipse, I take it.”
“They...I’m sure they viewed it. However...no, they were not there as scientists.” Jason turned his head to the side and blew out his breath. “I’m sorry. I never should have brought it up.” In spite of the dimness of the light, he focused again on Francine. “I didn’t know you then, Francine. If I had, I would have invited you to be part of our expedition.”
“In what role, Jason?” Francine lifted her chin. “As a scribe? As a hostess to provide food and drink before and after the event?”
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