Several weeks had passed. The men were sitting by the fire in the cabin, discussing the growth of the cooperage and the opportunities for further expansion that were presenting themselves. More and more settlers were passing through the area, heading both south and west into new territory. The need for barrels and kegs kept increasing. The need for blacksmiths was apparent.
There came a lull in the conversation. Robert looked at Nathaniel, who was staring into the fire. He wondered what was going through the man’s mind. He appeared to be concentrating very hard. Robert was about to ask what was bothering him, when Nathaniel rose and announced he was going to bed.
The abrupt change caught Robert by surprise. “Is something troubling you?” he asked.
“No, I am just tired,” returned Nathanie
