Chapter 17When Matthew and I returned to the Mead the following Monday, we found a surprise waiting for us. Lt. Haleworthy—or Gideon as he kept pressing me to call him—had arrived earlier that day for a week’s stay. By way of making himself welcome, he’d brought the lavish gift of a complete bolt of linen for the ladies. His presence, of course, robbed me of the pleasure of surprising the family with news of Matthew’s return.
As soon as we exchanged greetings and saw to the buckboard full of supplies and our horses, Gideon once again expressed his delight in the Mead. “This is the most picturesque farm on the Yanube. I’m aching to climb that high hill behind the place. Perhaps you’d show me up if you’re not too tired from your journey.” He turned to Matthew. “Both of you.”
“Be glad to, b
