A Night of Unexpected Visitors

As the knock at the door faded away, Eliza turned to Betty and smiled. "I think it's time for me to retire for the night, don't you, Betty?" she said, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. Betty, a dark-skinned woman with a kind face and a quick wit, nodded and began to help Eliza undress. "Of course, ma'am," she said, her voice low and soothing. "I'll help you get changed into your nightgown." As Betty expertly unlaced Eliza's dress and slipped it over her head, Eliza couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. It had been a long day, and the thought of slipping into her comfortable nightgown was a welcome respite. She handed the dress to Betty, who took it and began to fold it neatly. "Would you like some tea, ma'am?" Betty asked, as she held up Eliza's nightgown, a soft, white linen garment with delicate lace trim. Eliza smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards her loyal maid. "Yes, please, Betty," she said. "And perhaps a candle lit in my bedroom? It's a chilly night, and I don't want to feel too drafty." As Betty efficiently lit a candle and set it on Eliza's bedside table, Eliza slipped into her nightgown, feeling the soft fabric envelop her like a warm hug. Betty helped her into bed, pulling the covers up to her chin and tucking them in. "You look lovely, ma'am," Betty said, smiling. "Now, get some rest. I'll wake you if you need anything." Eliza smiled, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. "Thank you, Betty," she said. "I think I'll be fine. But do make sure Alexander has his tea, won't you?" Betty nodded and began to make her way out of the room, but Eliza called out to her. "Betty?" "Yes, ma'am?" Betty replied, turning back to Eliza. "Who was that young woman who came to the door?" Eliza asked, her curiosity getting the better of her. Betty's expression turned serious, and she hesitated for a moment before answering. "I'm not entirely sure, ma'am," she said. "But she looked...troubled. And she said something about having a message for Mr. Hamilton." Eliza's brow furrowed, and she felt a sense of unease creeping over her. What kind of message could this young woman possibly have for Alexander? And why had she come to their home on a stormy night like this? She knew that Alexander's work often took him into the midst of controversy and intrigue, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. As Betty departed, Eliza settled back into her bed, her mind racing with questions. She blew out the candle on her bedside table, plunging her room into darkness, and closed her eyes, trying to calm her racing thoughts. But her mind refused to quiet, and she found herself wondering what the night might bring.