Harry told her what he knew and she nodded. "Silas was right, but I've learned more. No one knew anything about her, but her accent indicated she was from some part of Great Britain. Her clothing was plain but of good quality."
"She was mostly known as Aunt Lizzy and had good knowledge of wild plants, especially herbs.
People went to her for treatments, but she was seldom home. She was usually busy collecting plants, which earned her the name Bizzy Lizzy."
She paused to sip her tea. "Lizzy was also known by two other - less flattering - names. Her red hair apparently had a tendency to curl in damp weather. Anyone who saw her then would refer to her as Frizzy Lizzy. Probably the worst name was Witch Lizzy. Those who didn't understand her were a little afraid of her.
Her dresses were long, dark and of rough fabric, with cut-off rubber boots on her feet. In chilly weather, she wore a black shawl. In winter she wore a canvas coat, and heavy stockings in her boots - a style as unique as her personality.
"Your research was thorough," Harry said. "But why would they call her a witch because of her clothing?"
Miss P chuckled. "Oh, I think that was because rumours said she could communicate with her three black cats."
"And thinking she was a witch might explain why people thought they saw her ghost following the fire," Harry said.
Miss P shrugged. "And sometimes people see what they want to see. Sadly, I think she was simply a gentle soul, content with the bare basics for herself, who wanted to help others."
"Glory, you've been rather quiet," Harry said. "Is there something on your mind?"
She nodded. "I think perhaps I should tell you what I've heard."
"If it's about Aunt Lizzy, please do," Miss P said.
"Some people claim they've seen her more often in recent weeks, even when there's no storm coming," Glory said.
"What do you mean?" Harry asked.
"She used to appear only before a heavy rainstorm. Now she's seen nearly every night, even in good weather."
"Where did you hear this, Glory?"
"At the supermarket, Miz Edith. People talk while waiting in line."
"Where have they seen her?"
Glory shrugged. "Walking up on Hobie's Hill, like she always did."
"Did they mention what she was wearing?" Miss P asked.
"A long dark coat was all they could be sure of, but one woman said she had bushy hair... like Aunt Lizzy's."
"Interesting," Harry said. "If you hear anything different, Glory, please let me know."
"I'll make some calls," she said.
"Thank you." Harry looked at Miss P as he stood up."Will you send me a copy of everything you have on Aunt Lizzy?"
"Of course," she replied. "I'm curious about this too."
He nodded. "I know. I'll keep you informed." There's more to this, he thought as he walked down the steps to his truck.
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