.............
DISCLAIMER:
Catherine Marshall's beautiful story of Christy is owned by the
LeSourd family.  The fanfic authors are in no way seeking profit or
credit for Catherine Marshall's story.  They are continuing the story
of Christy for their own amusement only.  Any additions in story line
and characters were invented by the writers.



Fanfic: Hold Fast That Which is Good
Written by: Debbie, Kelly O, Susie, Michelle, Annie




Setting: This story is set during the TV series, shortly after the
Echoes episodes.


Chapter 1

The minute I stepped off the train, I knew something had gone wrong. 
David waited for me on the platform, a smile pasted on his face. His
voice was cheerful -- too cheerful -- as he welcomed me back.

"Did you have a good trip home, Christy?" David asked as he took my
hand and helped me down the steps.  His hands were clammy.  "The Cove
sure wasn't the same without you."

"It was wonderful to see my parents again, but Asheville has changed
so much; or maybe I've changed.  It will feel good to be back in
Cutter Gap."

David squeezed my hand and got that dreamy look in his eye.  "Last
week seemed like a year."

I cleared my throat.  "So, tell me all that's happened in the Cove
since I've been away."

His dreamy look was replaced by a momentary look of panic, then that
too-broad smile again.  Something had happened in the brief time I
was away, and David was afraid to tell me about it.  

"Well," David said, "Creed put a frog in the wash barrel.  Fairlight
practically had a fit when she reached in to scrub some sheets and a
frog jumped out at her."  His laugh was too hearty.  "But you'll be
pleased to know that Lizette Holcombe has finally caught on to Latin.
She was able to conjugate several verbs in all tenses without a
single error."

"But it's the autumn planting break.  What is Lizette doing studying
during a vacation?  She isn't my most study-minded student."

David smiled proudly.  "I've been working with her.  Seems her
parents would rather she spend some of her vacation time learning
Latin instead of helping around the house.  I guess word's getting
around the Cove that she's been struggling, and you know how these
folks are about Latin... and their pride."

"I guess."

"Oh, and Rebecca Holt is expecting again; Doctor MacNeill expects her
to give birth sometime next spring.  Can you believe that will make
nine children?  I don't know how--"

"David, please tell me what's going on."

"I don't understand what you mean," he said, taking my arm and
leading me toward the general store.  "Come on.  I told Alice I'd
pick up some supplies, since I've got the wagon with me."

It was obvious that whatever bad news David was hiding, he was going
to continue hiding it until he was ready to tell me.  But that would
not stop my imagination from whirling.  Had the feuding started up
again?  Was something wrong with Miss Alice?  Had the tension between
Bird's-Eye Taylor and Dan Scott finally boiled over into violence? 
Or was it one of the children?  

"Christy?"

I snapped out of my reverie.  "What?  What is it?"

"Haven't you heard a word I've been telling you?"

"I'm sorry," I said shaking my head in an attempt to clear it.  "What
was it you were saying?"

"I asked if you needed anything from the general store.  With winter
just around the corner, it may be a while before we make it back down
here."

"No, I'm fine," I answered.  "I'll browse around while you get those
supplies for the mission."

As David gathered up flour, sugar, rope and nails, I strolled through
the shop, absently fingering rakes, shovels and buckets.  What was
David keeping from me?  Several times I caught him studying me with
his brow furrowed.

"Say, Preacher," Mr. Lowery, the ancient owner of the El Pano General
Store, shouted as he totaled up David's purchases. "How's that Allen
boy a-doin'?  Heard he got the worst of it in that scrap with them
O'Teales."

David cleared his throat, glancing in my direction.  "He's fine."

"Ain't the way I heerd it," the old man continued at the top of his
voice.  "Folks say he got a busted up nose, a broke hand and four
teeth knocked clean out'n his head.  A body ought to know better than
to pick a fight with any O'Teale."

My curiosity was at its breaking point.  Which Allen boy had picked a
fight with which O'Teale and why?  It took all the self control I
could muster to hold my tongue until we were out of the store.

"David, will you please tell me what happened?"

He grimaced as he lifted a fifty pound bag of oats into the wagon. 
"You'll find out soon enough," was all he said.

The seven mile trip to Cutter Gap seemed interminable as we rode
along without talking.  Several times David opened his mouth to speak
and I heard the sharp intake of his breath, but each time he closed
his mouth again.  I shivered; whether it was from the chilly fall
breeze that swept down the mountain or David's ominous silence, I
didn't know.

We were approaching Lonesome Pine Ridge, near the Spencer cabin, when
my patience ran out.  In the distance, I could see their laundry
hanging on the line to dry and tiny specks, probably chickens,
roaming the yard.  "David," I said, "tell me what is going on.  The
news may be bad, but I doubt it's worse than what my imagination has
dreamed up."

David sighed and then stopped the horse.  For a few moments, he
scanned the horizon then ran his fingers through his hair.  "Well,"
he said, "you know that Rob Allen's been sweet on Ruby Mae..."

"She isn't pregnant, is she?" I cried.

David chuckled nervously.  "No, no, she isn't pregnant, at least I
don't think so.  Anyway, Rob's been working up the nerve to start
courting Ruby Mae.  Why he has to work up the nerve I don't know. 
She's done everything but try to court him herself."

"So what's the problem?  What is so terrible about Rob and Ruby Mae
courting?"  My heart fell into my stomach.  I grabbed David's arm. 
"Was it Rob who fought the O'Teales?  Was Rob the one?"

He nodded slowly.

"But why?  Why?"

"I'm getting to that.  I didn't know it, but apparently Smith O'Teale
has a fondness for Ruby Mae himself."

"Smith!"

"Yes.  He got into his father's corn liquor stash Thursday evening,
and then ran into Ruby Mae on her way home to the mission house. 
They talked for a few minutes, then I guess Smith told her he wanted
to court her."

"What!"

"Well, you know Ruby Mae -- not always the most tactful girl around. 
She told him in no uncertain terms that he would not be courting her.
Her heart was set on Rob Allen."

"Oh no," I could sense where the story was heading.

"Oh yes," David answered.  "You're aware that the O'Teales are
related by marriage, more than once I believe, to the Taylors?"

"Yes."

"Mix that fact with some strong homemade whiskey and a bruised
ego..." David looked out over the valley below.  "Smith decided to
court her anyway."

"What do you mean?"

"He... he..." an angry light flashed in David's eye.  "He tried to
have his way with her."

"Poor Ruby Mae!"  Tears welled up in my eyes.  How could anyone be so
cruel?

"Fortunately Rob came along just then.  As soon as he saw what was
happening, he lit into Smith like a lunatic.  But a mild-mannered boy
like Rob is no match for an O'Teale, even if he's madder than a
hornet.  Nathan raises those boys brawling practically from the day
they're born."

"You don't have to tell me, David," I said.  "Remember, I teach them
all in school.  I'm not sure how I'd handle a boy like Smith if he
gave me trouble.  One Lundy is enough."

David clenched his teeth.  "Well, Smith won't be attending our school
ever again.  I won't risk letting anything like that happen to you."

I wasn't sure I agreed with David.  The mission school should be
available for everyone, but another time would be better for for that
discussion.  "How is Rob doing, and what about Ruby Mae?"

"Rob's all right, considering.  He's staying at the mission house for
now.  The Doc didn't feel it was wise to move him, not until we're
sure that there are no internal injuries.  His face is hardly
recognizable."

"Poor Rob!  How bad is it?"

"Basically everything on his face is swollen.  He's got a split lip
and two black eyes, a broken nose, and he lost two teeth.  He broke
his right hand, too, but I suppose that means he did deliver one good
punch before Smith lit into him."

I felt tears running twin trails down my cheeks.  I prayed silently
that God wouldn't let this experience break Rob's spirit.  He needed
God's comfort in this dark hour.  I wiped my eyes with my sleeve. 
David reached into his pocket and pulled out a handkerchief.  He
gently dabbed my face with it.

"Rob's going to be fine, Christy.  He's got no wounds that can't
heal."

"I know, but it's his heart I'm worried about," I said.

"He's a strong fellow and he comes from a strong family.  They'll
stand beside him, and so will we.  Rob will come out of all this just
fine."  Was David trying to convince me, or himself?  I wasn't quite
sure.

"And how is Ruby Mae?  Did Smith hurt her?"

"He roughed her up a bit.  She has several bruises, a few on her
face, but especially on her arms where he grabbed her and jerked her
around. Her dress was torn.  I'm not sure what was happening when Rob
found them.  I don't think Smith had..."

"Oh, David!"

"So far, Ruby Mae's been too upset to talk about it and MacNeill said
it's best not to push her right now."

He punched his fist into the palm of his hand.  "I know it isn't
right, Christy, but this whole situation makes me want to hit
somebody.  And what good are we doing here?  What has changed? 
Nothing!"

"That's not true."

"We still have feuding and hatred, and now schoolboys drinking liquor
and trying to violate young girls!  Where is God in all of this? 
Where is He, Christy, can you tell me?"  He shook his fist at the
heavens.  "I want to know God.  Where are You?  Where were you when
Smith was attacking Ruby Mae?  Where were you when Rob tried to help
her?  And where are You now, God?"  

He waited for a reply, but the only response was his own deep voice
echoing across the valley.  "God?... God?...  God?" 


Chapter 2

"But David," I said, breaking through his fit of anger.  "You don't
think that Smith, well, you don't think he--" I couldn't bring myself
to say the words.

"I don't know.  I don't know."  He kicked his foot against the front
of the wagon so hard that I heard the wood snap.

I placed my hand over his.  I had no words to give him. There were no
words.  David looked at me.  Rage and tears were in his eyes -- a
deep and passionate rage that I'd never seen in him before. 

"I don't understand, Christy.  I just want to understand.  Why
doesn't God see that I just want to understand," he said this looking
directly into my eyes as if he expected me to speak the answers that
he so desperately sought. 

"David, it's going to be okay.  We can get through this," I said.  I
didn't know what else to say; and, as soon as I spoke these words, I
knew how very weak they were.  I wanted to say something profound --
something that would cool his anguish -- but it was too late.  My
flimsy words had already failed him, and he took up the reins and
whipped at the horse to move along.

The wagon rocked and bumped over the rough trail.  Neither David nor
I spoke after that.  My stomach hurt with the sourness of it all. 
What was I going to say to Ruby Mae and Rob?   If my words had failed
David so completely, how would I ever help Ruby Mae or Rob Allen? 
Suddenly, I hated Cutter Gap for what it did to the children --
tearing their hearts out bit by bit. These children should be worried
about what to wear to school dances, not be in fear of being beaten
or violated in the woods. 

Each time the wagon jolted I grew angrier.  I held my tears back with
this anger.  Why did I sit around and do nothing?  Why were such
things tolerated here and why were they spoken of at the El Pano
General Store as if they were merely a matter-of-fact? These people
could stop it.  They had the power to stop it all.  So why didn't
they?  Why didn't Dr. MacNeill do something?  He was one of them. 
And what could I do?  I had to do something, but everything seemed
hopeless.  How could someone like me make a difference?

The leaves had already started to change colors.  They were vibrant
and flaming with red and gold. Fall has always been my favorite time
of year.  I love the chill and vitality in the air.  The colors
symbolize such expression of beauty and hope, but the woods seemed
colorless as we rode through the thickest part of the woods. 

** ** ** ** **

"Christy, I am so glad to see thee," Miss Alice said as soon as David
stopped the wagon.  She stood at the foot of the mission porch steps.
"I trust that thy father had a nice birthday surprise and that thee
had a good visit with thy parents?"

"Yes, Miss Alice, it was so nice to see them.  Daddy was completely
surprised -- he had no idea I was coming. But I can't even think
about any of that after what has happened here."

"Indeed," was her only reply.  She hugged me tightly as soon as I
jumped down from the wagon.  "We've missed thee greatly." 

I was grateful for Miss Alice.  She was like a beacon of light in the
midst of darkness.  "There is someone upstairs who, I think, will be
glad to see thee."  The strength in her face sustained me.  She
hadn't given up.  I took a deep breath.

I looked at David.  He tilted his head and smiled sadly at me, and I
pulled my carpetbag from the back of the wagon.  With it in hand, I
went inside and then up the stairs.  I had brought Ruby Mae some
soaps and perfumes and ribbons from McBride's, my favorite store in
Asheville.  It was a silly thing now, but it might cheer her.  I
decided to wait and see how she was feeling before giving them to
her.

In the hallway outside her room, I decided that I wouldn't mention
what had happened unless she brought it up herself.  I took as much
air into my lungs as I could hold, and then knocked on her door. 
"Ruby Mae?" I called.

"Miss Christy?" Ruby Mae opened the door.  The yellow afternoon sun
lit her room and settled upon her bruised cheeks.  My heart broke
when I saw the damage that Smith had caused; I could see it in her
eyes even though she smiled at me.  She seemed like a lost child. 
"I'm so glad that you're back," she said.  She looked as if she might
cry for a moment, but she turned away from me instead.

"Look at what I'm making."  She tried to sound happy, but I knew
better.  I watched her pick up a blue knitted blanket with knitting
needles tucked into the yarn.  "Mrs. Spencer spun the wool for me,
and Miss Hattie helped me dye it blue.  Ain't it pretty?"  She sat
down on the bed with it in her hand.

"It's so pretty," I said, reaching out to feel the blanket. "It's
soft, too."

"I've been working on it ever since--"  She looked up at me.  "Ever
since Thursday."

"It's going to be beautiful."

She looked down at the blanket and twisted her fingers into the
knitted yarn.

"Ruby Mae, I'm, well, I'm here if you want to talk," I said, even
though I'd promised myself that I wouldn't mention it first.

"No, Miss Christy, no," she said shaking her head.  She had tears in
her eyes when she looked up at me again, but she didn't cry.  "I'm
fine, just fine." 

I sat down on her bed beside her and tried to give her a hug, but she
pushed me away.

"I just want to get this here blanket finished before Christmas, is
all," she said. 


Chapter 3

Ruby Mae and I sat in silence for a few moments as I tried
desperately to think of something to say.  But what words of comfort
could I offer?  Emotions welled up inside me once again until I
thought my heart would burst.  I felt pain and sadness for Ruby Mae,
a white-hot anger towards Smith O'Teale, and utter frustration at my
own helplessness.  Somehow though, I had to try and cheer Ruby Mae a
little.  I reached down and picked up the carpet bag, turning toward
her with as bright a smile as I could muster.

"Now I know it's not Christmas for a while yet," I said, "but I
brought you a little gift from home." I placed the package, wrapped
in tissue paper, into her lap, letting my hand linger reassuringly on
her arm for a moment. Ruby Mae looked up at me and tried to smile. 

"Thank you Miss Christy," she said, putting the blanket aside as she
fumbled with the ribbon that held the parcel together. I watched as
she tore away the flimsy paper, hoping for a glimpse of the old Ruby
Mae, who would have squealed in delight at the pretty things before
her. But this new Ruby Mae was strangely still.

"They're real nice." The change in her was almost too much to bear. I
picked up one of the soaps from her lap. 

"These are rose scented," I said. "They use real rose petals to make
the fragrance." I looked across at her, but Ruby Mae just stared
blankly ahead.

"The perfume is my mother's favorite," I continued, "and I chose the
ribbons especially to match the color of your eyes--" To my horror,
Ruby Mae had begun to shake violently. Her face crumpled and she
began to sob.

"Oh Miss Christy, I can't take these beautiful things. They're for a
lady and I ain't no lady. I don't deserve things as nice as these." I
threw my arms around Ruby Mae and held her as she cried. "I always
tried my best to be a good girl, Miss Christy. I always tried to be
nice to folks and to do what the Bible says. What did I do wrong? Why
is God punishing me?"

I hadn't anticipated that Ruby Mae would blame herself for Smith's
actions. Taking her gently by the shoulders, I pushed her away until
I was looking into her eyes.

"Ruby Mae, you listen to me," I said. "You did nothing wrong. None of
this was your fault. You are a beautiful, sweet girl with the kindest
heart." I pulled her close to me again and began stroking her hair.
"You mustn't blame yourself for any of this. What Smith did to you
and to Rob was wrong--"

Ruby Mae began to cry again. "Rob will hate me now, Miss Christy.
How'll I ever be able to talk to him, knowing he got hurt on account
of me? Besides, after what happened, he won't even want to look at me
no more."

I hesitated for a moment, not knowing how exactly to ask the next
question, or even if I should. But I had to know.

"Ruby Mae, can you tell me how badly Smith hurt you? I mean, did
he--" I was unable to finish the sentence.

"No," answered Ruby Mae, her voice no more than a whisper, "but he
would have if it weren't for Rob." She started to shake again. "Why'd
this happen, Miss Christy?"

"I don't know, Ruby Mae," I whispered, drawing her close once more.
"But you'll be all right. You and Rob will both be all right. We'll
help you. You are not alone. Remember that. You'll never be alone." 

I could feel Ruby Mae's breathing slowing as I continued to whisper
to her and soon she agreed to lie back and rest. She fell asleep
almost immediately. I sat next to her for a long while, looking down
at her face, exhausted and sad, even as she slept. 

Please Lord, I prayed silently, give me the strength to help Ruby Mae
through this. Bless Ruby Mae and Rob with your healing and help them
get on with their lives. And please forgive me, I added, for my
feelings of anger towards Smith O'Teale. Help me not to judge him
harshly for what he has done.

As I quietly let myself out of Ruby Mae's room, I knew that that
would be the hardest thing of all.

** ** ** ** **

I slept uneasily that night and woke long before the sunrise. After a
couple of unsuccessful attempts to get back to sleep, I decided to go
for a morning walk to try and clear my head. I walked briskly, not
really concentrating on where I was heading, my mind full of
unanswered questions. I was somewhat uneasy that I felt no better for
my heartfelt prayers. So much strength was needed now -- surely God
would provide for us? 

Without knowing it, I had made my way to the river. The sun was
beginning to rise, making interesting shadows on the water. I looked
down and saw a rock at my feet. Without thinking, I picked it up and
hurled it with all my might into the quietly lapping water.

"Blast! What in the blue blazes do you think you're doing? Can't a
man enjoy a spot of early morning fishing in peace?"

I jumped as Neil came from around the bend in the river, an angry
look on his face. His expression changed as he saw me and walked over
to where I stood.

"Christy? What are you doing here? Is anything wrong?" 

Suddenly all the emotions inside me overflowed, and I sat down on the
riverbank and began to cry. Neil sat down next to me and put his arm
around my shoulders. 

"Tell me what has upset you so," he said.

Chapter 4

I quickly pulled away from Neil and stood up.

"What has me so upset?" I said as I roughly wiped my eyes with the
back of my hand. "What do you think?" I turned and moved several
paces down the river bank. I took deep breaths in an attempt to calm
my emotions as I heard Neil following me. How could he be so blind? 
Neil had seen Ruby Mae's bruises and stitched up Rob Allen's cuts,
yet he asked me what was the matter?

"I'm sorry, Christy." He put a handkerchief into my hand. "I forget
how sheltered you've been from the harsher side of life."

"What!" My mind tried to grasp what was happening -- one minute Neil
was full of concern and the next he was speaking to me in his
irritatingly patronizing way.

"I thought after the McHone baby died you had an inkling of what I
was up against," he said, "but here you are again, wondering how I
could not be a real doctor to my people."  Surprised at how Neil had
so accurately voiced my thoughts, I could only stare at him.  "Don't
look so shocked, Miss Huddleston," he said, "you're not telling me
anything I've not heard a hundred times before.  Now if you'll excuse
me..."

Neil was almost around the bend in the river when I finally found my
voice.

"Wait!" He stopped, but without turning toward me, he calmly picked
up a stone and sent it skipping across the water's surface.  My
temper flared again.  Stamping my foot on the ground, I threw down
his handkerchief and prepared to head back to the mission house.
Instead I tripped and fell, a sharp pain shooting through my hands as
they bore the brunt of the impact. Tears again filled my eyes as I
got back on my feet, kicking at the offending tree root. 

I stared at the blood seeping out of the jagged cut on my right palm.
A streak of blood marred my skirt where I'd brushed my hands. Neil
was beside me in an instant.

"Let me take a look," he said as he grasped my wrist. 

"I, I fell," I said, sucking in my breath as he pressed the cuff of
his shirt sleeve down on the cut.

"We'll have to go to my cabin," he said.  "This will need some
stitches."  I pulled my hand away.  Sighing, Neil again took my wrist
in his hand. Pointing at my cut he said, "I have to keep pressure on
the cut to slow the bleeding, and my shirt sleeve's the cleanest
piece of cloth I have right now." Allowing myself to be led forward,
I silently wondered if my blood would leave a permanent stain on his
clothing.

** ** ** ** **

The pain in my hand was a steady throb by the time we reached Neil's
cabin. Once inside, Neil picked up a clean white cloth from the
table, steered me to a chair, and told me to keep pressure on the
wound. I watched as he gathered gauze, a small basin, and other items
from a cabinet. I looked over at the door beyond the fireplace,
trying to picture what the doctor's laboratory would look like in
daylight.

"Now," Neil began as he sat down on the chair in front of me, "I'll
have to clean out the cut with some iodine; it'll sting." He held my
hand over the basin. Noting the direction of my gaze he added, "If
you're a good girl, I'll give you the grand tour." 

That brought a smile, but then I bit down on my lower lip as the
brown liquid splashed over my hand. I forced myself to keep my palm
open as Neil threaded a needle. I must have gone pale, for he began
talking to me gently.

"Don't worry, Christy; it only needs a few stitches."  Neil's voice
trailed off.  Repositioning my hand in his, he cleared his throat.
"Let's just say I've had opportunity to perfect my technique in the
last few days."

"I'm sorry for getting angry at you earlier," I said in an effort to
take my mind off of the feeling of the needle sliding through my
skin. "I know you do the best you can; it's just so hard...."

"I know," Neil replied, finishing off the last stitch. As he wrapped
a strip of gauze around my hand, he sighed deeply.  I thought I saw
the glimmer of tears in his eyes.


Chapter 5

"Medically, there's not much to be done for her," Neil said.  I'd
been peppering him with questions about the injuries to Rob and Ruby
Mae as he rode me home.  "What she needs now is what your mission can
provide."

"Prayer?" I said, hardly believing what I'd heard.  I wished I could
see his face, but my perch on the rump of his horse only gave me a
view of his shoulders and hat.

"What I meant was comfort -- she's been badly frightened."

"She feels guilty for what happened."

"You can help her, Christy," he said.  "You know she looks up to
you."

"Yes, but --"  How could I confess to him how clumsy I'd been with
the poor girl yesterday?  I'd only made her feel worse with my silly
presents from Asheville.

"Don't be afraid of making mistakes," he said, patting my hand. 
"Ruby Mae knows your heart, she trusts you.  Follow your heart -- you
won't go wrong."

Now I was glad we couldn't see each other's face, because I felt my
cheeks grow hot.  I knew I shouldn't be proud, but Neil's words made
my heart swell.  He gave me hope.  I silently promised that with
God's help I would do my best for Ruby Mae.

My new confidence was put to the test as soon as we entered the
mission yard.  David was standing in the open door of his bunkhouse,
slowly backing out.  Rob Allen was advancing on him, leaning on a
cane.  They seemed to be arguing.  I hadn't seen Rob when I arrived
last night, and the sight of his face made my heart sink.  One eye
was swollen shut, and both were darkened with bruises.  His nose was
puffed up.  His lip was cut on one side and ludicrously swollen.  The
young man's handsome face was gone.

"Oh, Rob!" I cried.  He noticed me, and shuffled back into the
bunkhouse.

David turned toward us.  "Christy?"

"Is something wrong with Rob, Reverend?" Neil asked as he gave me his
arm to dismount.

David was staring at me while he replied, "Actually, you're just in
time, Doc.  Rob says he wants to walk home."

I hurried to the doorway.  I heard Neil call my name, but I rushed
inside, where Rob was sitting on David's bed.  His injuries were even
more horrifying as I came close.  One hand was thickly bound in
bandages.

"Please go away, Teacher," Rob said, trying to turn away from me. 
His words were slurred, as though it was painful to speak.  "I'm
ashamed for you to look on me."

I knelt before him.  "No," I said, "there's no shame for you.  What
you did to protect Ruby Mae was very brave."

"But I'm in the feud now," Rob said, slowly shaking his head.  "I was
never mad like that in my whole life, and I didn't care what happened
to me.  After all you taught us, I went and jumped right in with both
feet."

"Don't say that!"  I looked back at David and Neil, but neither man
said a word.  I couldn't believe what was happening.  "Rob," I
continued, "you are not in the feud.  We can find a way to work
things out between you and Smith O'Teale, I know we can."

"Teacher, you can't be feudin' on Friday and Saturday, and then just
quit on Sunday.  Like it or not, I'm in."  He rose to his feet,
leaning painfully on the cane.  "Doc MacNeill, sir, I'd like to go
home now."

** ** ** ** **

David and I stood in the yard watching Neil and Rob ride out, the
young man on our mule, Theo.  Even though the doctor had promised
that Rob would recover, my heart told me that the Rob Allen I knew
was changed forever.  I felt like crying.

"Poor Rob," I said.  "He never wanted to fight."  I looked up at
David.  "Has anyone seen Smith O'Teale?"

"No, but I'd like to get my hands on him," David said.  "I'd give him
a taste of his own medicine."

"Please don't talk like that.  We have to find a way to bring peace,
not spread the fighting."

"I know, but it's so frustrating."  David reached for my hand, and
then he lifted it in surprise.  "A bandage?  What happened, Christy? 
Is that why you were with Doctor MacNeill?"

"No, not exactly."

"Not exactly?  I thought you were still asleep, and then the two of
you come riding up together.  What were you doing with him at this
hour of the morning?"

The jealous look on David's face infuriated me.  He had his hands on
his hips, and he squinted at me as I'd seen him do with the children
when they misbehaved.  "I don't have to explain myself to you, David
Grantland.  I need to find Ruby Mae."  I ran for the house, hoping he
wouldn't follow.

** ** ** ** **

I was relieved when Ruby Mae agreed to help me prepare the school for
the start of classes next week.  Miss Alice said we should get her
back to her normal life as much as possible.  I knew that we'd have a
chance to talk as we worked, cleaning the desks and washing the
windows.

Ruby Mae was quiet at first, but by the afternoon she finally asked
about Rob Allen.  Though he had stayed at the mission house for two
days, she said he hadn't wanted to see her.  I knew it was because he
was ashamed of his appearance, but poor Ruby Mae had imagined he was
angry at her.  When I explained Rob's injuries, her discouragement
very quickly turned into enthusiastic sympathy.

"Miss Christy," she said, "I got to do something nice for Rob.  He
was so brave and got himself beat up on account of me, and I want to
do something for him.  Could I bake him a pie?  Do you think he'd
like that?"

"That's a good idea, Ruby Mae, but we should talk to Doctor MacNeil
first.  It might be hard for Rob to eat until the swelling goes down
and the bruises heal."

"Maybe if I make a sweet 'tater pie, it'll be easy for him to eat? 
Even babies or grannies with no teeth can eat that.  I never made one
before, but you and Miss Alice'll help me, won't you?"

I had to smile.  She was returning to normal.

We worked for another hour, but the wound on my hand began to hurt. 
Soon it was throbbing, and I had to stop.  Ruby Mae offered to finish
washing the windows.

I was about halfway to the house when I heard her scream.  With my
heart in my throat I raced back to the school.  How could I have been
so stupid as to leave her alone after she'd been attacked?  As I
reached the steps, I noticed that David and Miss Alice had emerged
from the house.  I paused for a moment to wave them on before I ran
inside.

I was stunned at what I saw: Ruby Mae held Orter Ball O'Teale by the
throat.  She had him pinned against the wall, and was shaking him
violently.  She was still screaming.

Chapter 6


"Ruby Mae!" I yelled. "Stop!" I grabbed her by the shoulder and
pulled her away from Orter Ball. 

"I hate you," she screamed, kicking and squirming to free herself
from my grip. "I hate you and your whole family! I hope you all die.
I hope I never see any of you again!" She kept screaming and flailing
wildly. I'd never seen Ruby Mae act like that. 

"Orter Ball, what did you do to her?" I asked.

"I didn't do nothing, Teacher, honest, I just come up here to give
you the chalk rocks that me and Becky found on Tumbling Creek. Ruby
Mae jumped me as soon as I come in the door."

David flew into the schoolhouse, followed closely by Miss Alice.
"What happened?" he shouted.

Ruby Mae wriggled free from my grip. She was sobbing with anger. She
ran passed the others and out of the schoolhouse. "Ruby Mae, wait,
Ruby Mae!" I followed her to the front steps, calling after her, but
a loud clatter behind me stopped me.

"What did you do to her?" I heard David yell. The anger in his voice
astonished me. When I came back inside, I saw that David held Orter
Ball well off the ground, gripping him by his shirt collar. Desks and
chairs were knocked all over the room. 

"David, put the boy down!" Miss Alice said.

"What is it with you O'Teales, huh?" David screamed directly into
Orter Ball's face. 

Orter Ball began to cry. "I didn't do nothing, Preacher. I didn't do
nothing." 

"David, this is not the way to handle this," Miss Alice said. 

But David acted as if he hadn't heard. He flung Orter Ball up against
the blackboard and drew back a clenched fist. 

"David!" I screamed. "What are you doing?" I ran between David and
Orter Ball just in time for David to deliver his punch against my
chin. I was knocked back, falling into Orter Ball, and we both went
down. I was stunned, and I shook my head to regain myself.  I stood
up, holding my chin in my hand. My eyes were watering, and I looked
up at David. His eyes were full of rage, but when he saw that he'd
hit me and not Orter Ball, his expression melted. He stopped and his
hand fell limply to his side.  Orter Ball dashed out the door like a
scared rabbit.

"Christy," David said. "I'm so sorry, I--" 

"Reverend Grantland," Miss Alice said, standing between me and David.
"I must ask thee please to leave this schoolroom." Her voice was
firm, unshakable, and cold.

For a moment David stood there, wilted and speechless. I could see
tears in his eyes as he walked away. As soon as he had gone, Miss
Alice turned back to me. 

"Let me take a look at your chin," she said softly.

"It's not bad, really Miss Alice," I told her as she pulled a
handkerchief from her pocket. 

"Hold still, you're bleeding," she said. She wiped my chin with her
clean, white handkerchief. "It appears as though the blood is coming
from somewhere else."

I was baffled for a moment, then I remembered my cut. I turned my
hand over, and sure enough, it was bleeding badly. "I cut my hand
this morning," I said. "I'm sure it just needs a new bandage."

Miss Alice took the bandage off. "You've torn the stitches loose,
Christy.  We will have to re-suture it."

"Can you do that?  I mean, you don't need Doctor MacNeill do you?"

"I'll have thee know that I can out-stitch Doctor MacNeill any day,"
she said and smiled. We both knew that Dr. MacNeill's scolding was
the last thing we needed at that moment.

** ** ** ** **

"What about David," I asked Miss Alice as she re-stitched my hand. I
was angry at David, but I feared that Miss Alice would react even
more severely. 

"I'll have to think about that one. Doctor Ferrand must be told, of
course."

My heart raced. If Dr. Ferrand found out what happened, he would
dismiss David immediately. I knew he would. And while I felt that
David's actions were wrong, he was still capable of bringing good to
these people. What would I do without David in Cutter Gap? But how
could David have lost control like that? I'd never seen him act so
violently. Everything seemed to be unfolding like a bad dream -- it
made my head hurt just to think about it.

"Don't worry about that now," Miss Alice said.  "Right now I need to
find Ruby Mae, and thee needs to lie down for a while." She gently
wrapped a fresh bandage around my hand and then patted my cheek. "All
done," she said.

Miss Alice forced me to go upstairs and lie down. I tried to refuse,
but she wouldn't listen to any of my pleas. She only grew angry when
I argued, so I gave in. She followed me all the way into my room.

"Don't worry, I'll find Ruby Mae," she said. "She'll be fine. I want
thee to get some rest."

She waited for me to sit on my bed before smiling again. "We'll be
back before you know it." 

I obliged Miss Alice begrudgingly, but as soon as I lay down, I was
thankful for the softness of my bed. My room was chilly, so I
burrowed beneath the quilt. I hadn't slept well the night before, and
I felt exhaustion settling in on me.

** ** ** ** **

A loud crash woke me. I jumped from my bed into a standing position
without a beat. It was dark outside, and no lights seemed to be lit
in the mission.  I heard voices outside.

"You ought to knowed better than to pick a fight with the O'Teales,"
a man's voice called. I heard running and then another crash. I
fumbled down the stairs in the darkness, and was surprised to see
that there was some light outside.  I looked out the parlor window.

David's bunkhouse was in flames. I ran as fast as I could. "David!
David! Are you in there?" I was screaming and beating on his door.
"Oh God, please don't let David be inside. Please God" I grabbed a
shovel -- the nearest tool I could find -- and broke the window.
"David, can you hear me! David!" 



Chapter 7

The flames grew higher and higher and the heat and smoke forced me
back from the door. My eyes were streaming and I began to cough.

"Christy!" I heard a familiar voice. "What are you doing? Get away
from there!"

David was running toward me. "Thank God you're safe," I cried,
allowing him to drag me to a safe distance. "I was so afraid you were
in there."

David was about to reply when the sound of raised voices interrupted
him.

"Preacher! Miss Christy!  You all right?" Jeb Spencer and Dan Scott
ran up to us, their faces full of concern.

"Yes, we're fine, but the bunkhouse," I answered. "Please help us."

"The fire's got a hold of it somethin' fierce," Jeb said, "but we'll
do what we can."

It took most of the night to get the blaze under control. As dawn
broke, David, Jeb, Dan and I were standing in the ruins of David's
bunkhouse.  I asked how they had found out about the fire.

"I couldn't sleep and was out walking when I saw the flames," Dan
said. "I was near the Spencer place, so I ran and woke Mr. Spencer.
We came as fast as we could. Not fast enough, though," he added.

David was silent. I was worried about him. How much more would he be
able to take? I wished Miss Alice was here, but as far as I knew she
was still looking for Ruby Mae. I hoped that she'd found her and that
they both would be back soon. 

Jeb's question interrupted my thoughts. "How'd it happen, Preacher?" 

David stared at him blankly for a moment or two before answering. "I
don't know," he said. "I had gone for a walk myself to clear my
head--" he looked over at me, his eyes full of remorse "--and when I
got back, it was already on fire."

Jeb turned to me. "Did you hear anything, Miss Christy?"

I hesitated before answering. What did I really know for sure?  Would
accusing the O'Teales really achieve anything? I didn't know it was
they, after all.  When was there going to be an end to this violence?
 Jeb looked at me expectantly.

"I was woken by a loud crash," I said. "And I heard shouting and
someone running away, but I can't be sure who it was."

Jeb shook his head. "Bad business," he said. "Well, I'd best be
getting back home. I'm sure Fairlight'll be over directly to help
with the cleaning up and all."

"I can stay and help now," Dan said. "I'd planned on coming to see
Miss Alice this morning anyway."

I smiled gratefully at them both. "Thank you so much for what you
did," I said. "I don't know what would have happened if you hadn't
been here to help."

"Pleasure, Miss Christy," said Jeb. He held out his hand to David,
but David hardly saw him. He was staring around at the charred
remains of the bunkhouse in disbelief. Jeb, Dan and I exchanged
glances. What was the best thing to do?

Once Jeb had gone, I started walking around the ruins of the
bunkhouse, trying to salvage what I could. Dan put his hand on my
arm. "I'll help the Reverend do this," he said. "You must be
exhausted."

"No more than you," I answered. "But I'll go and make us all some
breakfast. I think we'll need it. David, are you hungry?"

David shook his head, as he stooped to pick up what was left of a
book. My eyes filled with tears. He looked so lost and helpless. What
was going to happen now?

"Go on, Miss Christy," Dan said. "We'll be fine here."

** ** ** ** **

I busied myself in the kitchen and was quite startled when the door
opened and Miss Alice and Ruby Mae appeared. Both looked shocked.

"Oh Miss Christy, are you all right?  What happened?" The young girl
flew into my arms, hugging me tight.

"I'm fine, Ruby Mae," I said, looking over her head to Miss Alice. 
"Someone set fire to Reverend Grantland's bunkhouse.  I don't know
who did it, but fortunately no one was hurt."

"Ruby Mae, why don't you continue making breakfast while I take Miss
Huddleston upstairs?" Miss Alice said.

"Oh yes'm, of course."

Miss Alice took my arm and led me upstairs. I sat down on my bed and
was pleased when she sat down next to me. Her presence was
comforting, and I was relieved that I could allow someone else to be
in charge now. Quickly I told her the events of the previous night,
and then asked how she had found Ruby Mae.

"She had run some distance," Miss Alice said, "but by the time I
found her, she had exhausted most of her anger. She seemed to welcome
the quiet of the evening at last, so I suggested that we spend the
night under the stars. Had I known what was going to happen here in
my absence though, I would have insisted on returning immediately.
Does thee know who was responsible?"

I told Miss Alice what I had overheard and she nodded gravely. "It is
a great relief that David was not harmed," she said. "He has
obviously received a great shock."

"What will happen now?" I asked. "How many more things are going to
go wrong?  I've never seen David look so lost, and Rob and Ruby Mae
are still hurting too. It just doesn't seem fair."

Miss Alice laid her hand on my arm. "All things happen for a reason,
Christy," she replied. "Has thee not thought that the destruction of
the bunkhouse could be a new beginning?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, in the past few days there has been nothing but violence and
anger in the Cove. Now we will have something new to focus on. We
must all work together to rebuild David's bunkhouse. It is remarkable
how people's spirits are lifted when they work for a positive goal."

At last I felt a glimmer of hope. Could Miss Alice be right?

** ** ** ** **

Over the following days it seemed as if Miss Alice's prediction might
just come true. Gradually, David's bunkhouse began to take shape
again. Jeb and Dan were there nearly every day, while Fairlight, Miss
Alice, Ruby Mae and I were busy cleaning, salvaging and cooking.
Every now and again Ruby Mae would smile, and each smile made my
heart soar.

David was still very quiet, and pain showed in his eyes whenever he
looked at me. I knew that we would have to talk about what had
happened, but I decided to wait until he was ready to bring up the
subject. In truth, I didn't really know what to say to him. I knew
that Miss Alice hadn't yet told Dr. Ferrand, and I prayed every day
that she wouldn't. And of course, the shadow of the unknown arsonists
was ever present.

About a week after the fire, two people on horseback rode into the
yard. Neil dismounted quickly and I noticed with joy that the second
rider was Rob Allen. As far as I could tell, Rob looked a great deal
better. 

"My patient was feeling like a spot of exercise," said Neil, with a
grin. "So we came to help."

Rob smiled shyly at me.

"How are you Rob?" I asked.

"I'm all right, Miss Christy."

At that moment, Ruby Mae came out of the house. She stopped, her eyes
on Rob's face. I wasn't sure if she was going to cry or run back
inside. Before she could do either, Rob took a step towards her.
"Morning, Ruby Mae," he said softly. 


Chapter 8

Ruby Mae's mouth opened and closed twice, but not a single sound
escaped her lips.  In the many months I'd known her I had never,
ever, seen her speechless.

I cleared my throat.  "You look like you're feeling much better,
Rob," I said.  "Don't you think so, Ruby Mae?" I asked, giving her a
nudge.

She continued to stare at Rob, her face a study of conflicting
emotions.  Joy sparkled in her eyes at seeing the young man who'd
rescued her, and was mingled with her painful memory and the
insecurity of a youthful crush.

"I'll bet Rob would like to come sit on the porch and rest," I said. 
Ruby Mae's eye met mine and I cocked my head in Rob's direction. 
"Invite him up," I whispered.

She finally nodded.  "You must be parched, Rob Allen," she said a
little too loudly.  "Me and Miss Christy just made up a fresh pitcher
of persimmon juice. Reckon you'd like some?"

"Be right nice," Rob answered.  He hobbled up the steps gripping the
rail tightly, but I noticed the cane was gone.  

Dr. MacNeill had silently slipped off his horse and tethered him to
the hitching post.  "May I have a word with you, Miss Huddleston?" he
asked.  "I'd like to see how your hand is healing."  

Neil and I strolled to the gazebo, and I sat down where I would have
a clear view of the mission house porch.  Rob was sitting in a
rocking chair; Ruby Mae had disappeared inside in a flutter of
flaming red hair.  A glimpse of the girl I'd known before my trip to
Asheville was re-emerging at last, and I smiled.

"Now let's see that hand of yours," Neil said, bringing my thoughts
back to the gazebo.

"You really want to see it?"

"Of course.  It wasn't only a ploy to give Rob and Ruby Mae a chance
to talk."

I offered my hand to the doctor, and he slowly unwrapped the bandage.
 His touch was almost a caress as he turned my hand over and studied
the wound.

"Seems to be healing nicely, in spite of the fact that you pulled
those stitches loose last week."

"Miss Alice did say that she could stitch circles around you."

Neil furrowed his brow in mock consternation.  "Sewing is women's
work, anyhow."  I chuckled.  "Keep the wound clean and dry," he said,
shifting into his professional tone.  "And please, no bunkhouse
construction for a few more days."

"Yes, sir.  You're quite a doctor, you know."

"What do you mean?  I haven't done a thing."

"Bringing Rob to see Ruby Mae was the best medicine either of them
could have," I said as I glanced over at the porch.  Ruby Mae had
returned with a tray of persimmon juice and two glasses.  The sound
of her chatter was music to my ears.  Rob sat listening, attentive to
every word.

"Far better than milk of magnesia," Neil said.

** ** ** ** **

After Ruby Mae had gone to bed that night, David, Miss Alice and I
sat on the porch.  We were silent, each lost in our own thoughts. 
The sound of crickets slowly chirping in the cool  night air mixed
with the rhythmic squeak of David's rocking chair.

"Has anyone seen Smith?"  I asked.

"No, and it's probably best that way," Miss Alice answered.  "Most of
the mountain folk are as horrified as we are about the incident.  I
fear for Smith's safety if he is seen in the Cove right now."

David leaned forward in his chair and the squeaking stopped.  "He
should fear for his safety!" he said.  "Why, when I see him, I'll..."
David's knuckles were white as he gripped the arms of the chair, and
even in the dim light, I could see the color rising in his cheeks.

"You are a minister and a Christian example here, Reverend," Miss
Alice said.  "While I certainly cannot condone Smith's behavior, each
of us must forgive him and show the mountain people that there is a
better way than feuding and bloodshed.  If you cannot do that, I must
ask thee to take a leave of absence until the situation is resolved."

David's head dropped and his shoulders sagged as though he were
carrying a burden too heavy to bear.  He clenched and unclenched his
fists, shaking his head.  For several moments he struggled with
himself.  Finally he looked up at Miss Alice.

"I can't do it, Miss Alice."

"Alone, thee cannot.  But if you'll ask God, He will open your eyes
and your heart and allow you to forgive."

"But it's not just that I can't forgive Smith; I don't even want to."

"God can help with that, too," I said.  "Please, David, won't you
try? God will help you see Smith the way He sees him, and through
those eyes, maybe -- just maybe -- we can help Smith become the man
that God desires him to be and resolve this conflict without
bloodshed."

"What can God see in Smith O'Teale other than a violent beast?" David
asked.

"God looked at an unwed teenage mother and saw a missionary," Miss
Alice said softly.

"Yes, but that was different," David said.  "You weren't a hateful
creature."

"No, but my spirit had been broken; I'd been shamed, and I had begun
to build a wall of cynicism around myself.  If Sister Sarah had not
singled me out with her love and attention when she did, the path my
life would have taken would have been quite different."

Miss Alice smiled tenderly at David.

"Smith has not had an easy life," she said.  "His father is rarely
home, and when he is, he's most likely drunk.  The little tow-headed
boy I knew when I first arrived here often wore the evidence of his
father's wrath -- a black eye or a split lip.  At first he tried to
protect his mother and his younger siblings, bearing the brunt of
Nathan's attacks.  Why, I remember hearing a story about Nathan
breaking Smith's arm and dislocating his shoulder for trying to stand
between him and Orter Ball."

"I'm sorry he had such a tough time growing up," David said, "but
isn't it true that each individual is born with a free will -- the
right to choose between good and evil?  The terrible things that have
happened to Smith are no excuse for his abominable behavior!"

"They are no excuse;" Miss Alice said, "however, how can a young man
treat others with respect when he himself has never been treated with
respect?  Heaping up anger and hate will not change him; it will only
harden him more.  That's why we must show him the power of God's love
and forgiveness."

"I'm rather impressed that he loved his brother enough to stand up to
Nathan," I said.  "There aren't many adults in the Cove, let alone
children, who would stand against Nathan."

Miss Alice sighed.  "Smith has courage and an iron will.  Both can be
admirable qualities, but so often they become exaggerated into
foolish pride and stubbornness.  I believe Smith is at a crossroads;
and depending upon how each of us," she looked pointedly at David,
"responds to him, God may have the opportunity to lead him down the
narrow path."

David ran his fingers through his hair.  "I still don't know if I can
forgive him."

"I have, Preacher, and if'n I can, I reckon you can too."

We all jumped at the sound of Ruby Mae's voice from the doorway.  She
stood in her faded flannel gown, her hair as wild as ever.

For the first time in a long, long time, David smiled.  "I reckon I
can, Ruby Mae."

** ** ** ** **

I dreamed of Nathan O'Teale and of a young boy trying to protect his
brother.  The smack of flesh hitting flesh sounded too real to be a
dream.  Slowly, I slipped into consciousness and the images faded,
but the periodic tapping sound did not.

Tap. . .

Tap. . .

Something was hitting my window.   

Tap. . .

Someone must be trying to get my attention.  I slid from the bed and
crept to the window.  I opened the window.

"Who's out there?" I called in a whisper.

"It's me, Teacher, me and Mountie."

"Mountie?  Becky?" I squinted out into the darkness.  "What is it?"

"Me and Mountie heard Smith and Orter Ball a-talkin',"Becky said. 
"What we got to tell you is powerful important, Teacher."

"All right.  You two stay right there.  I'll be down as quickly as I
can."  I pulled the window closed and grabbed my robe, tying the sash
as I hurried down the steps. 


Chapter 9

I sat at the dining room table with Becky, Mountie, and Miss Alice,
who had also been wakened by the tapping noise.

"Teacher," Mountie said softly, "Orter Ball done set the fire."

My heart sank.

"But he's powerful sorry for it," Becky said.

"I am sure he is," Miss Alice said, placing her hand over Becky's. 
"But surely Mountie and thee did not come all this way, and so late
at night, just to tell Miss Christy this."  Becky cast an uneasy look
in my direction before answering.

"No, ma'am," Becky said.  "We be worried about the Preacher." 
Mountie nodded her head in agreement.

"Why?" I asked.

Adjusting her glasses, Becky replied, "Cause Smith's fixin' to hurt
him.  He said somethin' about waitin' for Preacher to head off to
Lufty Branch and scare him at the ra--"

The young girl fell silent as the mission door swung open.  David
stood there for a moment and then joined us.

"Miss Alice, Christy, I was out for a walk and saw a light in the
window -- Becky!  Mountie!  Why are you here so late at night?" 
David quickly shut the door behind him.

"Why Reverend, I could ask thee a similar question," Miss Alice said.
David colored slightly at her remark as she continued.  "But in
answer to thy question, Becky and Mountie overheard a conversation
between Orter Ball and Smith.  They felt it was important to tell
Miss Huddleston about it right away."

David reached for the extra ladder-back chair from its position by
the stairwell.  I was about to tell him what the girls had overheard
when Miss Alice turned to our late night visitors.

"Does you mother know you are both here?"  Miss Alice asked.  Becky
shook her head. "Well then, we'd best get the two of you home. 
Reverend, if thee could saddle up Prince and Goldie while I change
into something more appropriate, we will escort these young ladies
home before their mother starts to worry."

As David went outside, I motioned for Becky and Mountie to stay at
the table.  I followed Miss Alice, and stopped her outside her
bedroom door, whispering so as not to wake Ruby Mae from what
appeared to be her first good night's sleep in weeks.

"Didn't you hear what Becky said?  Smith wants to hurt David! 
Wouldn't it be better to wait until morning to bring the girls back?"
The Quaker woman sighed heavily as she turned to face me.

"I am well aware of the threats made against David, but I am much
more concerned about Swannie waking up and finding her two daughters
missing.  They took a great risk by coming here."

"Of course, you're right," I replied, suddenly too tired to argue.

** ** ** ** **

The morning air dawned crisp and bright, causing me to briefly wonder
if the previous night had all been a dream.  I quietly stole out of
my room and onto the balcony -- I'd heard Ruby Mae go downstairs and
I wanted to delay filling her in on the night's events as long as
possible.  The sight of Miss Alice and David approaching the mission
house gave me hope that the task would not fall to me.  Quickly I
reentered my room and dressed before heading downstairs.

I entered the kitchen just as Ruby Mae was asking Miss Alice and
David why they'd been out riding so early in the morning.  She then
launched into a description of the dream she'd last night, about a
bird tapping on a tree trunk. Then in true form, she grabbed the egg
basket and headed outside.

"I'm gonna make the best fried eggs you ever had," she said over her
shoulder.

"Miss Alice," I said, "did Swannie know the girls were gone?"

"Yes, but..." she cast an odd look in David's direction.

"But," David continued, "she'd only begun to look for them.  Needless
to say, she was relieved when she saw they were with us." 
Stretching, David tried to stifle a yawn.  "I'd like to try Ruby
Mae's latest culinary attempt, but it's been a long night; I'm going
to get some sleep."  With that, David left the kitchen.

"What was that about?"  I asked Miss Alice.  She avoided my gaze. 
"What happened at the O'Teales?"

"If I may speak with thee outside, Christy?"  Puzzled by her behavior
and by David's hasty exit, I followed without argument.

Alice didn't speak at first, and we both stood gazing out at the
mountain ranges from the porch.  I was still amazed at their mixture
of harshness and beauty. My mind turned again to what Becky and
Mountie had told us the night before.  I struggled to grasp
everything that had led up to this point.

"Why, God?" I said, "why does it seem I take one step forward with
these children, only to take two steps back?"

"I have often wondered the same thing myself."  I jumped at the sound
of Miss Alice's voice.

"I didn't realize I'd spoken aloud."  She merely smiled at me as she
softly cupped the side of my face in her hands.

"I do not believe young Mr. O'Teale has moved backwards," she said. 
"If he had, he wouldn't have tried to convince Smith to change his
plans; nor would he have shown any remorse for the damage done to
David's bunkhouse."

"But the fact remains that he did it!" I exclaimed, my frustration
spilling over.  "And now Smith wants to take revenge on David."

"Miss Huddleston, hast thou not listened to anything thee have taught
these children?"  I was surprised by the sternness in Miss Alice's
voice.  "Thee talks often of forgiveness and turning the other cheek;
as I recall, thee was encouraging Reverend Grantland to do that just
the other night.  Yet now I hear thee has not forgiven young Orter
Ball O'Teale for a very foolish act.  Thou art not God, Christy. It
is not thee who brings these children forward, but God."

"Miss Alice, I didn't mean --"

I watched in stunned silence as Miss Alice entered the mission house.
After several moments I was about to follow when I heard a noise.
Turning, I saw David watching from his bunkhouse.

** ** ** ** **

I was uneasy all through breakfast, and had no idea how to answer
Ruby Mae's questions.  Thankfully, Miss Alice explained Becky's and
Mountie's visit, but she offered no explanation or apology for our
earlier conversation, and slipped away soon afterward.

After Ruby Mae and I had washed and put away the dishes in
uncharacteristic silence, she excused herself, explaining she was to
meet Rob Allen at the gazebo.  I smiled as I saw her fetch her
knitting supplies before leaving -- she'd abandoned the blanket she
was making, deciding a scarf would be more practical come winter.  I
was glad to see her work on something other than that which to me
symbolized so much pain in her life.

It seemed David really did need to sleep, as he had yet to make an
appearance for breakfast.  I decided to let him rest, planning to
question him later about what happened at the O'Teales.  Seeing that
I would have the morning to myself, I decided to go through the
donations sent back to Cutter Gap with me by my parents.  In all the
turmoil of the past few weeks, I'd entirely forgotten them.

Opening the first box out on the breezeway, I was wondering how I
would explain my forgetfulness to Mother and Father, when I heard a
heavy footstep on the stairs.  I expected David would like something
to eat by now.

But no words would come when I turned around and saw a bruised and
bleeding Neil MacNeill fall to the ground.

Chapter 10

I cried out as I rushed toward Neil.  He wasn't unconscious, but he
had slumped down, and seemed unable to sit up.  Blood covered the
side of his face and had streamed onto his coat and shirt.  Ruby Mae
came running from the gazebo, and I must have woken David up, because
he appeared a few minutes later.  The three of us somehow got Neil
into the parlor.  We lay him on the floor near the fireplace, and I
knelt beside him, wiping his face and neck with a shirt I'd grabbed
from the box of donations.  The shirt quickly became soaked with
blood as I searched for Neil's wounds.

"David," I said, not turning from Neil, "I need lots of water and
clean cloths.  Ruby Mae, run upstairs and wake Miss Alice."  They
didn't move immediately.  "Go!"

"Christy."  Neil grasped my arm with surprising strength, though his
voice was weak.

"Don't move," I said.  "You have a bad cut on your head, and I'm not
sure where else you're hurt.  Please lie still."

"I was riding."

"What happened?"

"I didn't see who hit me," he said.

This hadn't been an accident?  Someone had attacked Neil?  I tried to
push aside my panic as I stanched the blood.  I found only one wound
on his right temple, and a bruise on his cheek.  I couldn't believe
there weren't more cuts -- where had all that blood come from?  Who
would have done this to him?

Ruby Mae returned first.  "Miss Alice ain't in her room."

I had been sure that Alice had gone upstairs to sleep.  After all,
she and David had lost the whole night with their trip to the
O'Teales.  Had she gone off somewhere for a time of quiet meditation?
 Oh God, please don't let her be in danger, too!

"Ruby Mae," I said, "we need Miss Alice badly.  Check the
schoolhouse."

As Ruby Mae dashed away, David appeared with a pot of water and a
handful of clean rags.  When I told him that Alice was missing, he
frowned and shook his head, but said nothing.  He went back outside
without offering any more help.  My hands were shaking as I wrung out
a cloth.  Neil's eyes were closed, but I was sure he was listening.

"Neil," I whispered, "can you tell me what to do for you?"

"Cold compress."

"Like this?"  I gingerly held the damp cloth against the cut on his
temple.

"Mmm."  Neil didn't say anything else, so I guessed he meant yes. 
The cloth quickly became stained with blood.

"Let me put something under your head, all right?"

"Mmm."

I searched for some kind of cushion.  The sewing basket was close by,
and I saw Ruby Mae's half-done blanket on top of the pile.  Though I
tried to be gentle as I slid the blanket under Neil's head, his groan
tore at my heart.  When he was settled, I pressed another wet cloth
against the wound.  I heard footsteps on the porch, and prayed that
Miss Alice had been found.

I couldn't bear to look up as the door opened.

"Miss Christy," Ruby Mae said, "she wasn't there.  I can't find her
anywhere."  The poor girl began to cry.  I would have cried as well,
but I forced myself to stay strong.

"Teacher?"  I turned in surprise at Rob Allen's voice.  He stood
beside Ruby Mae in the doorway.  In a moment I remembered that Ruby
Mae had been expecting his visit.  "What happened to Doc MacNeill?"
Rob asked.

"It's just a cut on my head," said Neil.  He sounded stronger now. 
"I'll be all right."

I was sure Neil was trying to calm us, though it was significant that
he didn't move or sit up.  He was certainly not all right.  I changed
the compress yet again, and continued cleaning blood from his face
and neck.  I saw in Neil's eyes a warning to keep silent about the
attack.

"Rob," I said, careful to keep my voice steady, "will you run to Mr.
Scott's cabin and bring him here?"

"Yes ma'am, gladly," Rob said.  "Come on, Ruby Mae."

I soon needed fresh water, so I carried the pot out to the yard. 
While I was refilling it at the pump, David emerged from the barn. 
He held out his hands as he approached.

"Alice's horse is gone," he said.

"David, I'm frightened.  Where can she be?"

He shrugged, and wouldn't look me in the eye.  The panic that had
filled my heart was suddenly overwhelmed by anger.  David knew
something -- maybe he knew where Alice had gone.  Why were they
keeping secrets from me?

"This is insane," I said.  "I don't have time for your games.  If you
won't help me, then just leave me alone."  Water splashed onto his
feet as I pushed past him.

"Christy," David called after me.

"Find Miss Alice!"

Back in the parlor, I spread a blanket over Neil and knelt beside him
again.  He must have seen my distress, because he took my hand for a
moment and gave it a squeeze.  I couldn't believe he was comforting
me.

"I'll be all right," Neil said, "I promise."

"There's so much blood, but I only see this one cut on your head."

"The scalp has many blood vessels," Neil said.  "It's not unusual for
a head wound to seem much worse than it is."  I wasn't sure if he was
just trying to pacify me.

"You have a big bump on your head, too," I said.  "How badly does it
hurt?"  Neil didn't reply.  "Does it hurt when I touch it?"  I lifted
the cloth away from his head.  Neil's hand rose to catch mine, and he
guided it back to the wound.

"You're doing fine," he said. "You're a good nurse." The corner of
his mouth lifted in a small grin. If Neil could be calm, why couldn't
I?

"Do you remember what happened?" I asked.

"I was on my way home.  I was riding past some thick underbrush when
someone hit me.  It must have been a heavy stick."

"Oh, Neil."  I felt tears gathering.  "I can't believe anyone would
want to hurt you.  You didn't see anyone?"

"No," he said, "but I think there was more than one person.  I can't
say for sure."

"How did you get here?"

"I woke up on the ground," Neil said, "and Charlie was nudging me
with his nose.  He knew I had an apple in my pocket."

I started to laugh, but it immediately turned to tears.  In a few
moments I was sobbing, and couldn't stop myself.  I bent double, with
my face hidden in my hands.  I felt Neil touch my hair and arm.  It
was only when he tried to sit up that I stopped crying.

"Don't," I said, pushing his shoulders.

Neil had raised himself to his elbows, and though he looked pale and
was obviously in pain, he wouldn't lie down again.  "Calm yourself,
Christy.  Please don't be afraid."

"I'm trying, but--" I felt myself starting to cry again, and covered
my mouth.  In a few moments I was able to take a deep breath and
smile at Neil.  I brushed the tears from my face.  Neil lay back
down, watching me as though I was the patient.  I saw blood seeping
from his wound, so I busied myself tending to him.

"Something else is troubling you," he said.  "Is it because Alice is
gone?"

I nodded.  "She and David were at the O'Teales' last night.  We found
out that Orter Ball was the one who set fire to the bunkhouse."

"Orter Ball!"

"I couldn't believe it, either, but there's more to it than we know."

"What do you mean?"

"I don't exactly know.  Miss Alice and David wouldn't tell me what
went on at the O'Teales'.  Something happened -- it must be about
Smith and Orter Ball.  And now Alice is missing."  My hand was
shaking as I held the damp cloth against Neil's temple.

"Try not to worry.  She'll take care of herself," Neil said.  He
changed his position slightly, and as he moved his head, he grunted
in pain.  I knew he shouldn't be lying on the cold, hard floor, but
how could I lift him onto the sofa?

"I don't know why Dan's not here yet," I said.  "Do you want some
medicine for yourself, Neil?"

"Can you bring my saddle bags?"

I ran for Charlie, and was back beside Neil in a minute.  As I caught
my breath, Neil flipped open one of the bags, frowned, and then
checked the other side.

"It's empty, Christy," he said.  "They took all my medicine."

** ** ** ** **

It couldn't be only two o'clock in the afternoon.  I was as exhausted
as if it were two in the morning.  From my seat at the dining room
table, I could see Neil as he slept on the sofa in the parlor.  I was
relieved that Dan Scott was there with us, but I needed to stay close
to Neil.  I couldn't take my eyes off the white bandage that circled
his head.  I half expected to see a blood stain appear.

David started to pour more coffee into my cup, but I stopped him.

"None of this makes any sense," I said.  "Who would hurt Doctor
MacNeill?"

"I keep telling you," David said, "we have two likely suspects: Smith
and Orter Ball.  Who else could it be?"

"No, I won't believe it," I said.  "He told me he didn't see who
attacked him."

"Well, somebody hit him pretty hard and robbed him," David said. 
"What was missing?"

"Only the medicines.  They left his stethoscope and surgical things,"
Dan replied.  "Doctor MacNeill said he didn't have much medicine with
him, but most of it could be deadly."

"Those boys have no reason to hurt Neil, or to steal from him," I
said.

"People who do evil don't need a reason," David said.  "They just
need an opportunity.  One deed, like attacking Ruby Mae, led to
another -- setting fire to the bunkhouse, which made the next one
that much easier."

No," I said, "that does not prove that the O'Teale boys attacked
him." I felt myself trembling again.  There were so many frightening
things piling one on top of the other.  Why had God allowed all of
this to happen?

There was one answer I was determined to find.  "David," I said, "you
know where Miss Alice went, don't you?"

"How could I?  You know I was asleep."

"You're avoiding the question."  I looked across to the parlor.  Neil
hadn't moved.  I dropped my voice to a whisper.  "David, what
happened last night when you and Miss Alice took Becky and Mountie
home?"

"We don't have time for this now," David said.  He stood up and
opened the door.  "Maybe I'll go out looking for Alice."

I hated to leave Neil, but I was furious at David's evasive answers. 
With a glance to the parlor, I excused myself from Dan and ran after
David.

"David," I said, "you haven't given me a straight answer since you
came back from the O'Teales.  I can't understand why you're hiding
this from me.  I thought you trusted me."

"I do.  Christy, believe me, I do."

"Then tell me what's going on," I said, staring at him angrily. 
David looked as uncomfortable, guilty, and miserable as I'd ever seen
him, but he kept his mouth shut.

I don't know what I would have done next.  I was mad enough to hit
David, but God spared us both.  I whirled at the sound of a horse
approaching.  It was Miss Alice, but my jaw dropped open when I saw
the person behind her: Orter Ball O'Teale.

Chapter 11

For a moment I stood still, looking from Miss Alice to Orter Ball and
then to David. Why wasn’t anyone telling me what had been going on?
Orter Ball broke the silence by sheepishly holding up a small canvas
bag.  "I brung these for the Doc," he said.

I gazed in amazement at the bag that I knew contained Neil’s precious
vials of medicine.  "But where did you find them?" I asked. 

Miss Alice interrupted me.  "Perhaps we should all go inside, Miss
Huddleston," she said.  "I believe that there is much for us to
discuss."

A few moments later we were sitting around the parlor.  The commotion
had woken Neil and he sat on the sofa, propped up with pillows.  I
was pleased to see that he looked a great deal better.

"Yes, everything seems to be here." Neil checked the bag thoroughly.
"But suppose you tell me how you came to have this?"

"I’m real sorry Doc," Orter Ball said.  "I didn’t know what to do. Pa
gets so bad when he’s been drinkin’."

"Your father hit Doctor MacNeill?" I asked.  Orter Ball nodded.  "But
why? I didn’t even know he was at home with you."

"How long has Nathan been in the Cove?" Neil asked.

Miss Alice and David exchanged glances.  "I think we had best tell
thee what happened last night," Miss Alice said.

Finally.  I breathed a sigh of relief and fixed my gaze on Miss Alice
as she began her explanation.

"When Reverend Grantland and I arrived at the O’Teale cabin with
Becky and Mountie in the early hours of the morning, we found Mrs.
O’Teale in quite a state.  It seems that Nathan had just left the
cabin." 

"Drunk," Orter Ball said. 

"Indeed," Miss Alice said. "Apparently, he had heard about Smith’s
fight with Rob Allen and was not happy."

"You mean Nathan was disgusted at Smith’s behavior?"  I asked. "I’m
pleased to hear it."

"No ma’am," said Orter Ball.  "He was mad that Smith let Rob get in a
good punch.  He said Smith shamed him.  Said no O’Teale would let any
Allen lay a hand on him, and why hadn’t Smith gone back and finished
him off proper."

"That sounds like Nathan," Neil said.

David said, "Swannie told us that Smith defended himself by saying he
couldn’t get near Rob because we were keeping him at the mission."

"That made Nathan even angrier," Miss Alice said, "and he demanded
revenge on us do-goodin’ mission folk."

David smiled bitterly. "I would have thought the burning of my
bunkhouse was revenge enough, but apparently not."

Orter Ball blushed scarlet. "I’m real sorry for that, Preacher," he
said. "Smith made me do it, when he heard how angry you got at me and
all. But I didn’t want ya to get hurt, honest I didn’t."

Orter Ball looked so miserable that I put my hand over his.  "I’m
sure Reverend Grantland will accept your apology," I said, casting a
stern look at David.

"Shall we continue with the story?" Miss Alice asked.

"Yes, please," I said.

"Well," Alice said, "as I said, Mr. O’Teale was bent on revenge. 
Everyone at the mission should be taught a lesson, including you."

"But why should he see me as a threat?" I asked.  "I haven’t forced
Smith to come to school.  And I’ve helped the others--" I stopped,
suddenly aware of how uncomfortable Orter Ball must be feeling.

"That’s why we decided not to say anything to you, Christy," David
said.  "We thought that you had enough to deal with without Nathan
O’Teale’s threats on top of everything."

"Apparently Mr. O’Teale noticed that the girls were missing,"
continued Miss Alice, "and Smith told him they must have come to the
mission, as there was nowhere else they’d go in the middle of the
night.  So Mr. O’Teale left the cabin, vowing to make us pay for
interfering.  We must have arrived soon after, because we found Mrs.
O’Teale in a terrified state.  She was happy to see the girls, but
very frightened as to what would happen if her husband were to come
back and find us there.  So, after reassuring her that the girls were
fine and that we would take care on the way home, we left."

"Mama told us to get right to bed, because it were nearly mornin’,"
said Orter Ball as he took up the tale.  "She made Becky and Mountie
promise not to go nowhere, and then made us all go to bed.  Smith
fell asleep right off, but Becky and Mountie and me got to
whisperin.’  We was right worried about what was going to happen if’n
Pa and Smith got their way.  I had to see if I could find Pa, so I
snuck out of the cabin just as the sun was gettin’ up."

"That was very brave of you Orter Ball," I said, "but weren’t you
going against your mama’s wishes?"

"No ma’am" said Orter Ball, "Mama didn’t say nothin’ to me about
leavin.’  Just Becky and Mountie."

I hid a small smile.  "I’m sorry for interrupting," I said. "Please
go on."

"'Twas easy to see where Pa went," said Orter Ball. "He made really
heavy tracks.  I guess it was on account of him being drunk and all. 
I followed for a fair way, but then I couldn’t see no sign of him. 
The sun was up and I stopped for a rest.  Then I heard Pa’s voice
real loud. I thought he found you, Preacher, cause Pa was yellin'
about people meddlin’ in his business and how he’d teach them a
lesson.  So I ran over towards the noise and that’s when I seen Doc
MacNeill.  I thought you was dead at first, Doc."  Orter Ball turned
to face Neil.  "I tried to wake you up, but you was lying so still
and all.  I sat there for a long while, trying to figure out what to
do.  And then suddenly your horse come over and nosed around and you
groaned.  I asked if you was all right, but you didn’t answer."

"Well, that explains why I heard two voices," Neil said quietly.  "In
my condition I just didn’t realise how far apart they were."

"I know I should’ve stayed and helped, Doc," Orter Ball said, "but I
got scared.  I figured you’d think I done it and get me in even more
trouble.  So I... I hid behind the trees until you got back on your
horse and rode away.  But then I seen the bag of your medicines lyin'
on the ground.  It must have fell out when Pa hit you.  I figured
you’d be goin' to the mission.   I knowed if I went back home Ma’d
stop me from comin' here.  I was gettin' pretty close when I seen
Miss Alice."

Orter Ball stopped, exhausted.  He looked so lost and miserable that
I had to fight the urge to sweep him into my arms and hug him.  Neil
broke the silence. 

"Well," he said, "that’s the last time I go for an early morning ride
to clear my head.  It managed to do exactly the opposite.  And I hope
that’s the last time I’m mistaken for you, Grantland."  He nodded at
Orter Ball.  "I admire your courage in coming here, and I appreciate
you bringing back my medicine."

Suddenly Orter Ball started to cry.  "I don’t know what to do," he
said as he sobbed.  "I know lots of wrong things was done, and I done
some of them.  Pa and Smith don’t like any of you.  Ma and Becky and
Mountie and me, we think you’re all real nice.  We're real grateful
for how you helped us and all.  I just don’t know why all this had to
happen." 

He sniffed miserably and wiped his nose on his sleeve.  We all sat in
silence, not knowing what to say.  After a couple of moments, David
stood and walked outside.  I followed him.

David was watching a bird that had landed on the ground nearby.  It
was sitting with its head cocked on one side and seemed to be looking
back at David.  "Look at this little fellow, Christy," he said.  "It
must be a very simple life for him.  No big problems to deal with, no
feelings to confuse him."

"I don’t know about that," I said.  "He may still have a family to
feed or large animals to worry about.  But God is looking after his
life, just like He's looking after ours."

David turned to face me.  "Why am I having such trouble believing
that, Christy?  Why is it so hard for me to accept what has happened
and forgive the O’Teales?"

"You told Ruby Mae--"

"I know what I said, Christy, but it wasn’t exactly true.  The things
that the O’Teales have done are full of violence and hatred and
destruction.  How can I forget it and just forgive so easily?"

I took a deep breath.  "David, do you consider yourself a violent
man?"

"No," he answered.  "You know I’m not."

"Yet your aggression towards Orter Ball, and by accident, me, was a
violent act, wasn’t it?"

"Christy, I--"

"I’m not saying this to make you feel bad.  I know how sorry you were
for hitting me," I said quickly, seeing the look of remorse on his
face.  "I’m just trying to make a point. You're not a violent man,
but you made a mistake.  You lost control.  You're an adult and
you've had a much more stable background than the O’Teale boys."

"What do you mean?"

"Can’t you see how it would be so much easier for Orter Ball and
Smith to lash out?  They've known violence and fear in their home. 
They haven’t the wisdom of age to help them sort out right from wrong
as we can.  But look at Orter Ball.  Despite what happened, he's
learned a powerful lesson.  He's beginning to distinguish right from
wrong.  He has the courage to admit his mistakes.  He wants to help
put things right.  I think God is giving us an opportunity here.  We
can help Orter Ball have a brighter future than his father.  Our
presence here in the Cove is vital to that.  Surely you’re not going
to turn your back on this?  Or are you that small-minded that you
will continue to think only of yourself?"

I turned away, knowing that my parting words were harsh, but hoping
that they would sink in.  I was relieved when David called me back. 
He put his hands on my shoulders and looked into my eyes.  "You are
an amazing woman, Christy Huddleston," he said.

"I think you're right," said a voice.  We turned around to see Dr.
Ferrand eyeing us intently.

"Reverend Grantland," he said, "I think it is our turn for a chat."


Chapter 12

"Doctor Ferrand?" I said.  As I spoke, he stepped forward and took my
hand.  I wondered if he'd heard the conversation between David and
me.  Had Alice told him of our troubles?

"Miss Huddleston," Dr. Ferrand said, "it's a pleasure to see you. You
look amazingly well.  I'd say these hills agree with you."  He
squeezed my hand before dropping it.

"It's so nice to see you too."  I smiled, though I felt more anxiety
than pleasantry.  "Why don't you come inside?"

Dr. Ferrand turned toward David.  He took in a deep breath and
studied him carefully, even harshly, with squinted eyes.  He stood
for a long time without saying anything.  Finally, he said to David,
"I suppose our chat can wait a few minutes."  He turned back to me. 
"Tell me, is Alice here?" 

"She is; she's inside," I said.  David obviously felt the full extent
of Dr. Ferrand's scrutinizing stare.  I knew what a cold and dark
feeling it was.  If only I hadn't been talking about David's outburst
the minute Dr. Ferrand showed up.

"David," I said, "perhaps you could carry Doctor Ferrand's bag
inside."

"Of course," David said, sounding overly cheerful.

"Nonsense, Miss Huddleston," Dr. Ferrand said, "you spoil me.  I am
well able to carry my own bag.  Just escort me inside, as I would
very much like to see Alice."  

I took Dr. Ferrand's arm, and as we walked, I looked over my shoulder
at David.  He followed us with his head down.  My heart ached for
him.

Miss Alice was in the kitchen, preparing dough for yeast rolls.  Her
back was to us when we came inside.

"Alice, there you are," Dr. Ferrand said as he took off his black
hat.

"Jacob?"  Miss Alice twirled around to us.  White flour dusted her
nose and cheeks.  "I had no idea that thee had planned a visit."

"Well, I was in the area," he said with the wave of his hat.

"We are certainly going to have a full house," Miss Alice said.  "Let
me show you to your room, Jacob." She wiped her hands on her apron,
untied it, and walked through the breezeway to the parlor.  Dr.
Ferrand followed, as did I.  David stayed behind in the kitchen.

Neil was there, sitting on the sofa, with Orter Ball on the floor
beside him.

"Good heavens, what happened to you, MacNeill?" Dr. Ferrand asked,
pointing at the white bandages wrapped around Neil's head.

"I'm fine," Neil said.

"Well, you don't look fine.  What happened?"

"It's a long story, Jacob," Miss Alice said.  She put her hand on Dr.
Ferrand's arm.  "I'll tell thee all about it, but first let's get
thee settled upstairs."       

Dr. Ferrand slowly nodded and followed Alice up the stairs.  As soon
as they had gone, Orter Ball stood up.  "I best be getting home. 
Pa'll be back soon, and I better not be gone when he gets there."

"Orter Ball, do you want me to walk you home?" I asked.  

"No Ma'am, if'n Pa sees me with you, he'd kill both of us.  I'll be
okay, Teacher."

"It was a very brave thing you did today, Orter Ball.  I am so proud
of you."  I leaned over and kissed him on the forehead. 
He blushed. "Ah, it weren't nothin." 

"I think it was something," I said.

"Thank you, Miss Christy." He looked down at his feet.  After a
moment of awkward silence, he turned to Dr. MacNeill.  "I hope you
feel better real soon, Doc."

I followed Orter Ball through the kitchen and waved at him as he ran
through the mission yard.  It was a beautiful afternoon, crisp but
sunny.  I said a prayer for Orter Ball as he disappeared into the
long, stretching shadows of the trees.  I wondered where David had
gone.  Where could he be?  I wanted to talk to him.  I started to go
outside to look for him, but I heard Neil's voice.

"Christy?"

"Yes Neil," I answered as I entered the parlor.  He leaned back into
the feather pillow.  I sat down beside him.  "Did you need
something?"

He smiled at me with a mischievous grin.  "A boy like Orter Ball
could develop a crush on the teacher after something like that."  

"What do you mean?"

"Especially when the teacher is as pretty as you are."

"Oh Neil," I said.  I was extremely embarrassed.  He must have seen
me blushing, which made me blush even more.  I started to get up, but
he caught my arm and gently tugged me back down.  His expression had
changed.  It was serious and tender.

"Why didn't you tell me that David hit you?"

"How did you know that?"

"Orter Ball told me."  He touched my cheek with his fingertips.

"It was all a mistake."

"How could he do such a thing?  How does he expect anyone in the Cove
to have respect for him?"

"Neil, he didn't mean to hit me."

"But he did mean to hit Orter Ball, didn't he?  Or was that a mistake
too?"

"He just lost his temper.  David isn't a violent man.  You know he--"

"There is no excuse for hitting you, Christy.  None."

"For once I agree with you, MacNeill," Dr. Ferrand said as he
descended the stairs.  

My heart sank.

"Doctor Ferrand," I said, "you don't understand, it was all a
mistake.  David regrets what happened."

Dr. Ferrand shook his head.  "Where is he?  I need to talk to him."

"He was in the kitchen a few minutes ago," I said.

Dr. Ferrand said nothing.  He pulled his pocket watch from his vest
and inspected it, then walked out onto the porch.  I was so
frustrated I wanted to cry.

"Why did you do that?" I asked Neil in a harsh whisper. "Why did you
bring all that up right now, so Doctor Ferrand could hear?  David
could lose his position.  Is that what you want?"

"Christy, I didn't mean--"

"David works hard to do good things for the people here.  He's helped
them even though they don't accept him.  He's given his time and
energy, and now the Cove may lose it all."

"Why do you defend him so vehemently?" Neil asked.  "Do you love
him?"

I wanted to scream.  I went out the door without even grabbing my
coat. I kept walking, in spite of Dr. Ferrand calling after me.  I
went directly to the barn to saddle Prince, but his stall was empty. 
Charlie was saddled and tethered to the tack room door.  I mounted
him and rode away, needing to escape, if only for a few minutes.

Ruby Mae appeared as I reached the edge of the meadow.  She was out
of breath, and looked terrified.  "There's feuding at the Allen
cabin," she said. "Nathan O'Teale and Bird's-Eye have the place
surrounded.  John Spencer came and told Rob and me.  Then Rob and
John took off running towards the cabin.  I'm so scared, Miss
Christy."

"Ruby Mae, go tell Miss Alice what you told me.  Go now.  I'll see if
I can stop them before they get to the cabin."  I didn't wait for an
answer from Ruby Mae; I sank my fingers deep into Charlie's mane and
then pressed my heels into his flank.  We tore through the trees at a
full run.

Chapter 13

Branches whipped at my face and tore at my skirts, but I was
oblivious to the pain.  I had to get to Rob and John before they
became the latest casualties in this bitter feud.  My thoughts turned
to Bob, Mary and the rest of their children -- Creed, Litte Burl,
Festus, Nuda and sweet little Della May.  Prayers for the Allens and
for an end to the feuding in the Cove tumbled over each other in my
heart.

The top of the Allen mill had just come into view when I caught sight
of something moving in a clump of bushes to my right.  I tried to
slow the horse, but it was too late.  Charlie reared up and I fell
heavily to the ground. Everything faded to black.

** ** ** ** **

"Miss Christy -- are you all right?"  I opened my eyes, groaning
slightly as the worried face of John Spencer came into focus.

"Wh-what happened?"  I asked, slowly moving my arms and then my legs.
A sharp pain in my wrist woke me up in a hurry.

"We saw you tearin' through the woods," Rob said as they helped me to
sit up against a tree trunk.  "We tried to get your attention afore
you ran into the fightin' at my place, but we spooked the horse."

Even in my dazed state, it did not escape my attention that the boys
kept casting furtive glances around them.  Shaking my head, I tried
to get my eyes to focus, wondering if Nathan or Bird's-Eye were close
by.

"Boys," I said, "you'd better get over to the mission. I'll be fine
after a few minutes rest and will head back after you."

"No, we can't be lettin' you stay here, ma'am," Rob replied.  "This
here is between us Allens and the Taylors; there's nothin' you can do
to fix it."

"Rob's right," John added.

"Well, at least stay with me until I'm back on my feet," I said,
trying to stall them.  "I'm still feeling a bit winded."

"Miss Christy, we got to go," Rob said.  "My Mama and Daddy are in
trouble on account of me, and I can't sit here doin' nothin'."  Rob
turned to John.  "You can go if you like, John Spencer.  I don't want
you gettin' hurt, either."

John grabbed Rob's arm, shaking his head in protest.  "I aim to go
with you," he said quietly.

Desperately, I tried to think of another way to get the two young men
back to the mission.  For a moment I was thankful to hear the sound
of hoofbeats in the distance, before remembering exactly what sort of
situation we were in.  I scrambled to my feet, biting my lower lip to
keep from crying out at the pain that now shot through the wrist of
my right hand.  Rob motioned for me to hide behind a clump of bushes.

"Keep your head down, Miss Christy," he whispered.

"Rob, John -- where's Charlie?  I could get to the cabin on him
faster than you boys could on foot," I said as I carefully felt my
wrist.  "If I can mount up behind a tree--"

"No, ma'am.  Rob and me could make it faster on foot,"  John said. 
"Plus we can keep lower than a horse."  His voice trailed off as we
all noticed the sound of the approaching horse growing closer. The
horse's footfalls were now slow and rhythmic.

"John, it's too dangerous for you,"  I whispered as the sound changed
-- it seemed as though the rider had dismounted and was walking. 
"It'll be safer if I go, as I'm not directly involved."  I spoke with
more confidence than I felt. "I'm sure no one would fire a gun at
me."

"Beg your pardon Teacher, but Smith's Pa don't care who he aims at,"
Rob said.

Just then John put his finger to his lips.  With a start I realized
all had grown quiet.  I strained to hear any kind of a sound.  A
horse softly nickered, but I couldn't tell if it came from Charlie or
the unknown rider's horse.  It was hard to decide which was more
frightening -- not knowing if friend or foe was approaching us, or
the deafening silence.

I covered my mouth to keep from shrieking in terror when a hand
suddenly parted the bushes in front of me.

"Do you know I could hear the lot of you arguing a mile away?"  Neil
MacNeill whispered between clenched teeth.  "I'm surprised Bird's-Eye
hasn't shot one of you yet."  Scrambling to my feet, I held onto a
nearby tree for support, sending a bolt of pain through my wrist. 
The horizon seemed to dip at an unusual angle for a moment.

"We're not stupid, Doctor," I said, keeping my voice down.  Neil
seemed not to hear me as he turned his attention to Rob and John.

"And where do you two think you're going?"

"To help my folks, sir," Rob replied, turning to face the doctor. 
"Um, Doc?"  I heard the surprise in Rob's voice.  "Shouldn't you be
restin'?"

Having recovered somewhat from my dizzy spell, I moved so I was now
in front of Neil.  The white bandage on Neil's head had been covered
by his hat, but I now saw the spreading blood stain.  It accentuated
the paleness of his face.

"Neil--"

"Christy, what were you thinking, tearing off here like this?"  His
whisper was fierce.  Neil grabbed my shoulders.  "Have you learned
nothing about the feuding?"  I glared up at him defiantly.  My
planned retort died on my lips as Neil let go of me and took a few
unsteady steps back.

"You have to get away from here," he continued in a somewhat gentler
tone as he put his hand on John's shoulder for support.  "All of
you."

"I need to see if my family's all right,"  Rob replied, turning to
go.  Neil reached out a hand.

"Rob, wait --"

A shotgun blast resonated in the cold air.


Chapter 14

Within a few seconds the gunshot was answered by a half-dozen more. 
Neil dragged John and me to the ground as the firing continued.

"Rob," Neil called.  "Get down, flat!"

I heard a horse neighing in fright.  Men's voices shouted, and they
seemed to be all around us as the shots reverberated through the
woods.  I wondered if I would die, and prayed fervently for God to
spare Neil's life.  His arm across my back was somehow comforting
amidst all the terror.  I had nearly walked straight into the
shooting, but for Neil.  

"Hold your fire!" Neil yelled.  He repeated it a few times before the
firing slowed.  I could see John from where I lay, but I didn't know
if Rob had been hit.

"Hold your fire, it's Neil MacNeill!"

"Doc?" replied a gruff voice.  It sounded like Bird's-Eye Taylor. 
"What you doin' out here?"

I lifted my head, but Neil's hand at my shoulders pressed me into the
dirt again.  My wrist turned painfully at that slight movement, and I
couldn't keep back a groan.

"Stay down," Neil whispered at my ear, leaning heavily on me.  "Don't
move or speak."

I could only see his boots as he stood and called out.  "Is anyone
injured?"

There was no response at first, and I breathed a prayer of thanks.  I
slowly turned my head and saw that both John and Rob were lying flat,
watching the doctor.

In the silence I heard a low cry, and then scuffling noises.  "Pa!" a
voice shouted.  "Doc, Pa's shot!  Over here, quick!"

By the time I sat up, Neil had disappeared through the brush.  Rob
and John helped me to my feet.  I cradled my wrist against myself.  I
wasn't sure, but it seemed to be swelling.

"Was that Smith's voice?" I asked in a whisper.  "His father was
shot?"

"Think so," John replied.  "Teacher, we'd best wait here till the Doc
says it's safe."

"Doctor MacNeill?" I called, as a wave of fear swept through me. 
"Are you all right?"

"Yes, come on," Neil replied, and the three of us cautiously made our
way toward the sound of his voice.  We found him with Bird's-Eye and
Smith, at the edge of the clearing.  A man was writhing on the ground
-- Nathan O'Teale.  I wondered if there were others in the woods, but
I kept walking toward Neil, who knelt beside Nathan.

As we came near, I saw a huge red stain of blood at Nathan's stomach.
Neil was tearing open the shirt to expose the wound, and Nathan was
groaning and twisting.  The smell of blood was sickening, but it
didn't cover up the strong odor of alcohol.

"Bird's-Eye," Neil said, "hold his shoulders down.  I can't have him
rolling about."

"I'll do it," Smith said.  He handed his gun to Bird's-Eye and knelt
at his father's head, pinning his shoulders.

"Rob, hold his legs," Neil said.

"What can I do to help?" I asked, kneeling beside Nathan.

Neil looked up briefly.  "John, I need my medical bags.  I came on
Alice's horse, and the bags are still on the saddle.  Can you catch
her?"

"Yessir," John said as he sprinted away.

"NO!" Nathan screamed, grasping at my arm as Neil examined the wound.
"Don't let him cut me open.  I don't wanna die."

"Hold him, boys," Neil said.  "I've got to keep pressure on the
wound."

"Pa, lie still," Smith shouted.  "Doc MacNeill's gonna fix you up."

I couldn't escape Nathan's steel grip, so I patted his hand and tried
to reassure him.  I was thankful he wasn't holding my injured wrist. 
Even so, Neil noticed my stiff movement.

"What's wrong with your arm?" Neil asked me, hardly glancing up.

"I fell.  I think it's sprained."  I knew he didn't have time for me
now.  As he tended Mr. O'Teale, Neil told me to move my fingers, bend
my wrist, and then twist it.  I obeyed, though it hurt terribly.

"It's probably not broken," Neil said, and then he looked at Smith. 
"Your father's in a bad way, son.  Belly shot's the worst.  I'll not
lie to you -- he may not live, even if I can get the bullet out and
stitch him up."  For a moment Smith looked as though he might cry,
but he nodded.

"Do what you can," Smith said.

"Don't let him cut me," Nathan cried.  His words were slurred, and he
wasn't struggling as much now, though he kept a tight hold on my arm.

"We have to get him inside," Neil said.  "Rob, call out to your
father."

Rob nodded.  "Daddy, it's me!  We got a man shot here, and we're
bringin' him in!"

The cabin was behind me.  I twisted in time to see Bob Allen appear
in the doorway.  He didn't reply.

"Ready to lift?" Neil asked the boys, putting his hands beneath
Nathan's back.  The bandage on Neil's head was soaked in blood now. 
A trickle ran down his face, and I was afraid he would faint when he
stood.

"Doc, let us do it," Rob said.  "You're bleedin', and we can lift
him, can't we, Smith?"

"Yep," Smith replied, "we got him."

Suddenly Bird's-Eye was beside me, lifting Nathan while the boys held
shoulders and legs.  I helped Neil to his feet, and pulled his arm
across my shoulders, letting him lean on me as we walked behind the
others.

Bob Allen met us at the door, gun in hand, and after a moment of
tense silence, he stepped back to let us all in.  Mary and the
children were nowhere in sight.  The men lay Nathan, who was now
nearly unconscious, on the table.  Bird's-Eye nodded nervously to Bob
and Rob, and then left the house.

I immediately set pots of water to heat on the stove, praying that
John would return soon with Neil's bags.  Neil looked almost as pale
as his patient.  I don't know how he stayed on his feet, but he cut
off Nathan's shirt and began cleaning away the blood.

"Oh no," Neil said softly.

"What is it, Doc?" asked Smith, who was standing at his father's
head.

"There's a second wound here," Neil said, lifting Nathan's arm. 
"Look, he's been hit in the chest, too."

Bob Allen, who'd been silent since we entered, spoke in a firm voice.
"I never shot him.  I swear before God I never fired a single shot. 
My gun's cold."

"I know," Smith said, his head bowed.  "Pa was closest to where you
all was, Doc.  He musta fired off the first shot.  I couldn't see
nothin', but I thought we was bein' ambushed, and just started
shootin', likewise Bird's-Eye.  One of us musta hit Pa."

"I'm so sorry, Smith," I said.  "It was an accident."

"Him and Bird's-Eye was liquored up pretty bad."

"Quiet," Neil said.  His ear was pressed to Nathan's chest.  Was he
dying?  I held my breath and prayed hard.  The answer came within the
minute.

At the sound of hoofbeats, I rushed to the door.  John Spencer
galloped into the yard on Goldie, followed closely by Dr. Ferrand. 
My heart leapt in joyful relief, but I immediately recalled that
Nathan O'Teale was still in grave danger.

I helped to sterilize the surgical tools, and Dr. Ferrand assisted
Neil.  I thought of the operation Neil had performed on Little Burl,
using the very same table.  As before, I watched Neil's face, and I
felt as much fear for him as for Nathan.  Several times I came to
Neil's side to wipe his own blood from his face or to give him a
drink of water.

Smith stood a few feet from the table throughout the operation, never
speaking or moving.  I tried once to offer him comfort.  He thanked
me, and then returned to his silent vigil.  It was soon quite dark
outside.

I remember sitting down near the fireplace to rest for a few moments,
but I don't remember dozing off.  I awoke with a start.  Neil was
crouching before me, his hand on my arm.  I immediately noticed that
he had a clean white bandage on his head.

"I'm sorry, Christy," he said.


Chapter 15

"What happened?" I asked, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.  The cabin
was quiet except for the crackling of the fire.  A still form lay on
the table.

"Is Nathan--?"

Neil grimaced.  "Not much could be done."

"I know you did everything that could have been done."

"A perforation of the peritoneal cavity -- a belly wound -- can be
lethal even without a collapsed lung."

My mind told me that I should feel sorrow at the mountain man's
passing, but I didn't; rather, I felt a vague sense of waste.  

"Where is everyone?"

"Bob's gone out to the barn to watch over Mary and the children. 
John and Ferrand have gone to the mission house to fetch Grantland
and tell Swannie.  Bird's-Eye's still out there somewhere, and it
can't hurt to have an outlander travel with John."

"Unless one is mistaken for someone else," I said, looking pointedly
at the bandage on Neil's head.  "What about Smith?"

"Smith... well," Neil said as he fingered his collar.  "When Nathan
died, he took off.  Rob's out looking for him.  I tried to stop him,
but he wouldn't listen."

"Oh, no."

"We don't need any more bloodshed tonight."

I stood and walked to the cabin window.  Although it was late, the
moon wasn't far past full and I could make out shapes in the pale
light.  All seemed peaceful, but somewhere out there was an upset
Smith O'Teale, an innocent Rob Allen, and an unpredictable Bird's-Eye
Taylor.

I turned back to the doctor.  "So I suppose all we can do is wait."

"I know it's against your nature, Christy," Neil said, "but it truly
is the best course of action... or should I say inaction?"

"Easier said than done."

"Especially for you."

"Are you calling me a busybody, Neil MacNeill?"

"I plead the Fifth Amendment," he replied.

"The Fifth Amendment?"  I asked, and then remembered that our class
had studied the Bill of Rights.  "So you are calling me a busybody!" 
I gave him a playful punch in the arm.  What a relief it was to
laugh.  How long had it been since I'd laughed, I wondered.

Neil was about to reply when a movement in the moonlit yard caught
our attention.  He gently pulled me away from the window.  We stood,
holding our breaths, backs against the wall.  Then Neil cautiously
peered through the window.

"What do you see?" I asked.

"Quiet."

The suspense was maddening.

"It's John," Neil said.  "Quick, go stand behind the door.  Wait till
you hear him on the steps, then pull the door open.  Stay behind it. 
You never know who else may waiting in the brush."

I did as he ordered, as he kept a watch at the window.  In a few
moments, I heard footsteps on the porch.  I swung the door open as an
exhausted John Spencer stumbled into the cabin.

"Preacher's gone," the young man panted.  "Couldn't find him
nowhere."




Chapter 16 (Final)

That was without doubt the strangest night I'd ever spent.  I felt like
an intruder in the Allen home, while the family stayed in their barn all
night.  I couldn't blame them for avoiding the sight of Nathan O'Teale's
body.  John wanted to go out in search of Rob, but Neil wouldn't let him
leave again, and made him lie down on one of the children's beds.  John
fell asleep almost as soon as he touched the pillow.

"You should try to rest, too," Neil said to me, pointing at Little Burl's
bed.

I obeyed, but it was impossible to sleep.  Whether my eyes were open or
closed, I couldn't get rid of the sight of the dead body, and I kept
reliving the fearful moments in the woods when bullets were flying around
us.  I finally got up and sat with Neil by the fire, talking about the
events of the past days and weeks.  Though I was still concerned about
Rob, Smith and David, I felt better after telling Neil my worries.  I was
sure our whispered conversation helped him as well.  Impossible as it
seemed after the strange day and night we had just passed, Neil looked
stronger and more refreshed.

As I looked at the window for the thousandth time, trying to see if the
sky had lightened, Neil touched my arm.

"I hear someone coming," he said.  "Several people."

Neil quietly woke John as I peeked out the window.  It was light enough
for me to see David, Rob, Smith and Orter Ball coming toward the house. 
They entered the house silently, and Smith and Orter Ball went to their
father's body.  We all waited as the brothers stood on each side of
Nathan, gazing at his face.  David glanced around the cabin, and I
supposed he was wondering where the Allen family had gone.  I saw him
frown at the doctor.  Neil didn't seem to notice.

Finally Smith stepped back and looked at his brother.  "Now it's you and
me," he said.  Orter Ball nodded.  Smith continued, speaking to David,
"We're ready, Preacher."

"All right," David said, "let me talk with Miss Huddleston and the Doctor
for a minute."

"What happened to you, David?" I asked.

"Preacher," John said, "they're powerful worried about you over at the
mission."

"I know," David said.  "I was at the O'Teales', with Swannie and the
children.  She was terrified of what Nathan might do when he came back,
and I couldn't leave them alone and defenseless.  Then Smith and Rob
showed up together with news of -- of the shooting."

"Together?" Neil asked.

"Yes," David replied, "and I think something happened between them.  I
couldn't get either one to tell me."

I grasped David's arm and whispered, "Do you think they were fighting?"

"No," David said.  He looked at me sternly.  "And you two stayed here all
night?"

"Never mind about that now," Neil said.  "John, why don't you and Rob go
out to the barn and tell Bob and the family we're taking Nathan home. 
They'll want their house back."

 * * *

I'd drunk enough coffee to keep three people awake, but my mind couldn't
stay focused.  I needed to stay awake because there was something I
wanted to say to Neil when he returned from the O'Teales -- I couldn't
remember what it was at the moment.  Ruby Mae's questioning seemed to go
in circles, and somehow I had the impression of being dizzy, although we
were sitting down.

"Rob was gonna walk right past Bird's-Eye and them?  That was real brave,
wasn't it?" she asked.  "And what did he do when the shootin' started
up?"  I was sure I'd already answered that question.

"Miss Huddleston has told thee what happened at the Allens' cabin," Miss
Alice said.  "Both Rob Allen and John Spencer were brave, but not very
wise."

"I don't think any of us realized how dangerous it was," I said.  "It was
Doctor MacNeill who kept us from getting hurt."

"And him with a pump knot on his head," Ruby Mae said.  "But Rob helped
to carry in Mr. O'Teale 'cause the Doc was getting faint-like.  After
what the O'Teales done to him, he still helped them.  He's just like the
Good Samaritan in the Bible, ain't he?"

"Ruby Mae, we know you are very proud of Rob," Miss Alice said, "but
considering all the things that have happened to you and him and others,
perhaps it's best if you took some time to let your lives settle down
again."

Ruby Mae looked questioningly at Miss Alice.  I understood Alice's hint. 
"I think what Miss Alice means is that it's better not to think too
seriously about Rob.  You should put off any ideas of courting for now,
Ruby Mae.  We nearly had a feud start up last night, and Mr. O'Teale has
been killed."

"God rest his soul," Alice said.

"As much as you like Rob," I continued, "and as much as he may like
you--"

"I know, Miss Christy," Ruby Mae said, "I know what you're sayin'.  I
guess if he really does like me, then it won't matter none if we wait a
while."

"You are a very wise young woman," Alice said.  "And now I think we
should let Miss Huddleston take a nap.  I don't know how you've managed
to stay awake this long."

I stood up and stretched.  From my position on the porch, I could see
David and Dr. Ferrand on the far side of the pond.  Dr. Ferrand seemed to
be doing all the talking, and I feared for David.  When Miss Alice laid
her hand on my shoulder I jumped a little.

"He's done so much good here," I said.  "What if--"

"Thee cannot help him by worrying, or by staying awake beyond thy
strength."

"I should talk to David.  And Doctor MacNeill said he would come back."

Alice's hand on my shoulder now gripped tighter, and began steering me
toward the door.  "I promise to wake thee when Neil comes.  Go."

I thought I was resisting Miss Alice, but I found myself in my bedroom,
lying under a quilt.  As I drifted off to sleep, I was trying to remember
what I wanted to tell Neil.

** ** ** ** **

"David, what did Doctor Ferrand tell you?"  My voice sounded strange to
me.

A short laugh followed by the sound of a chair being dragged across the
floor brought me out of sleep.

"Miss Huddleston,  I think you may need glasses."  It was Neil who
answered me as I opened my eyes.

"What are you talking about?" I asked, stifling a yawn.  I wondered where
David had gone -- I was sure he'd poked his head in the door only a
moment ago.

"You thought I was Grantland."

"But he opened the door -- or was I dreaming?"

"That would have been Alice, making sure you were presentable before I
came in to check on your wrist.  Now, I cannot tell you how my talk with
Ferrand went, but I am curious as to what it is you wanted to tell me."

"Oh no!"  I quickly pulled my hand out of Neil's grasp.  "Doctor Ferrand
was talking to David earlier -- I need to find out what happened." 
Without offering any further explanation, I pulled on my shoes and
hurried out the door.

** ** ** ** **

"David," I called out as I neared the gazebo, "what happened?  What did
Doctor Ferrand say?"

"He was much more understanding than I expected, actually," David replied
as we each took a seat on the gazebo's bench.  "I'll be leaving for
Boston shortly and--"

"David, no, that's not--"  He held up a hand to silence me.  It was then
I noticed how peaceful he looked, possibly the most peaceful I'd ever
seen him.

"I'm sorry, I should have told you first that Doctor Ferrand put me on
probation; I will be coming back.  Based on his advice and that of Miss
Alice, I've decided to go to Boston for a few weeks.  I need to put some
distance between myself and everything that's happened here."

I breathed a sigh of relief at this revelation.

"All those times I was missing," continued David, "I was out walking,
thinking... praying mostly.  After all this time, I still wonder if I
belong here in the Cove -- if I'm really making a difference here.  Why
am I here?  Was I running away from home, or is it really God's will for
me to be here?"  He turned to face me.  "Christy, why are you smiling?" 
A puzzled frown creased his brow.

"I'm sorry, David -- I was just remembering when I first came here.  Miss
Alice asked me those very same questions."

"And?"

"And I was looking, in part, for adventure; but I know now that God had a
purpose for me in coming here.  And I'm sure He has one for you too --
you just have to ask Him to show you."

** ** ** ** **

"Have you remembered yet?"  Neil called out to me as he wrapped Charlie's
reins around the hitching post in front of the school yard.

"Remembered what?"  I replied as I waved good-bye to my last student.  I
hadn't seen Neil in a long time, and I didn't think there was anything
I'd forgotten.

"Glad you're feelin' better, Doc," Little Burl called over his shoulder
as he ran past Neil.  With a smile, I noticed that a fading scar peeking
out from Neil's curls was the only remaining sign of his injury.

"What it was that you had to tell me a few weeks ago," he asked as he sat
on the step beside me.  "Remember?  When you thought I was Grantland."  I
felt the color rise in my cheeks.

"Doctor, you know --"

"--that you were half asleep and dreaming," he finished.  "You've
apologized for that already, as well as your hasty exit.  But what was so
important?"   As Neil spoke, he tapped my arm.  "How is your wrist
doing?"

"Oh, it's fine, though my penmanship still leaves much to be desired."

A comfortable silence settled over us as we looked out at the small group
of children playing ball far down the meadow.  As we sat, I remembered
what I'd wanted to tell Neil.  I took another few minutes to get up my
courage to say it.

"I was wrong, you know," I said.

"Oh?  About what, exactly?"

"The things I said to you that day at the river, after I got back from my
trip to Asheville.  You are making a difference here."

"How so?"

"In the way you care for these people -- not just as their physician, but
as their friend.  And you've helped me a great deal, too."  Neil remained
silent, so I plunged ahead.  "You helped me know the why behind the what:
why Christianity is important to me, what it means to me.  I wanted to
thank you for that."

"Thank you, Miss Huddleston," Neil replied as he stood, rumpling the
hairs on the back of his neck.  "How was the Reverend's trip?"

Deciding it was best to comply with the change in topic, I rose and began
walking with Neil towards Charlie.  "It was good for him.  He's more sure
of God wanting him to be here now, especially with the changes he sees
happening in Smith and Orter Ball."

"Now don't get ahead of yourself," Neil said as he put his saddlebags in
place.  His smile was gentle.  "Change comes slowly to these mountains."

"But it has to start somewhere, doesn't it?  Like Dan Scott -- he did a
fine job treating your head wound.  He could be of real help to you." 
Nervously I toyed with my necklace.  Neil said nothing as he mounted his
horse.

"Well, I will give you this, Christy -- you're persistent."  And with
that, Neil nudged Charlie into a trot and was soon out of sight.

A weariness descended over me as I headed towards the mission.  So much
had happened since my return from Asheville: Ruby Mae's attack, the
threat of feuding, Nathan's death, and now the hope of a truce between
Rob and Smith.  Yet it seemed as though some things would never change,
such as the distrust and suspicion of anything or anyone new in these
mountains.

The sound of the children's laughter floated to me on the breeze.  It
buoyed my heart, giving me hope.  I reached out, holding firmly onto joy.

<<< The End >>>