Roses of Stone

Katharine rode in silence as they went back to Charleston, not a word was spoken between the unhappily married couple. There didn’t seem to be anything to say, since their attempt to make a serious change in their marriage was a failure and there was nothing that could be done to change it. No matter how hard they strived.

When they came to the quartering house, Tavington hopped off of his horse and walked over to help Katharine down. However, she ignored his offer of help and slid down to the ground under her own power. Straightening out her skits, Tavington just grumbled to himself before walking over and instructing the soldiers what to do with Katharine’s things.

“KATHERINE!” A voice came from the steps of the house. “Katherine!” Katharine’s eyes lit up recognizing the voice, and she turned to see her life long Best Friend, Jeanette Ann, standing there waiting to welcome her.

“Jeanette!” She exclaimed before hurrying up the steps and opening her arms. “Oh my sister! It’s good to see you! I have missed you so much!” She hugged her tighter just happy to be with one whom she knew longer and more intimately then any other. She pulled back and smiled, “What are you doing here in the Colonies? And why didn’t you write me that you were coming?”

Tavington’s eyes narrowed seeing Jeanette here, of all the people in the world who had come from England to be stationed here, it just had to be that woman. A person whom he despised beyond all reason or remorse, and loathed to see her come calling on Katharine at any time, his feeling for her husband matched his hatred for Jeanette. It seemed as though the mischievous nature of the two girls were brought out completely when they were together. Not to mention how much the two hated each other from the inside out. Grumbling obscenities to himself he finished directing Katharine’s things, and sent the horses off to be taken care of by a few privates.

“I would have written you, but it would have simply gotten here the same time we have. You see . . .” She grinned from ear to ear with her news, “Andrew has been promoted in rank and is now a Colonel! He has been given his own command and by order of the King, he was to come here at once to aid Lord Cornwallis in his campaign.” Tavington rolled his eyes at this news. Just perfect. Now that sister of Madea and her pathetic excuse for a husband would be elevated to a high enough position that their mingling with Katharine would be warranted.

“Promoted! That’s absolutely wonderful! And very welcomed! I know no other that could match Andrew or who would deserve it more then he.” Jeanette smiled and hugged her dearest friend again. Tavington started walking up the steps and he caught Jeanette’s eye. She sighed as her expression turned a lot less jubilant.

“Oh. Haven’t you been killed in action yet? Pity, I was hoping that Katharine had good news for me.” She said as Katharine released her from her embrace. “What are you doing here, shouldn’t you be in camp with your little Green Dragoons?” She snapped.

“And I see you have not been taken out and shot for your incessant tongue that should be removed from your mouth and nailed to a door.” Jeanette just gave him a dismissive smirk and wrapped her arm around Katharine’s waist turning towards the building to go inside.

Jeanette’s eyes turned back to Katharine and she frowned reaching up and resting her hand against Katherine’s injured cheek, “Katharine, what has happened? Where did this come from?” She asked in utter horror at the sight. Then her look darkened and her eyes narrowed and turned towards Tavington. She suspected that it was him who had given it to her, and she would happily give him a black eye to match. Katharine saw the look in Jeanette’s eyes and reached up taking her hand shaking her head that her assumption was wrong. Jeanette sighed before regaining her smile and cheery exterior. “Now, I think I have a nephew that you need to introduce me to.” She said as Katharine smiled, eagerly wanting her to meet young William. Tavington rolled his eyes and gave a sigh as he walked up the stairs to enter the house as well.

An hour later, Katharine sat across the table from Jeanette who happily held young William in her arms rocking him gently. “He’s just beautiful Katharine. It must be the only thing that William has done to his credit.”

“Jeanette, we’ve discussed this numerous times. You really mustn’t speak so ill of William, especially not in front of our son. I’m going to attempt to raise him without basis against his father, and try to keep the gossip out of his hearing.” She said pouring some tea into Jeanette’s cup and then her own.

“Well, you might as well move a mountain or two while you’re at it.” Jeanette looked down to find William hard asleep and suckling on his thumb. Standing slowly she moved over to his bassinet and laid him down covering him with a blanket to keep him warm before returning to the table. “Katharine, you cause your self enough heartache just putting up with him on a daily bases. If you try to shelter his son from everything about him, it will simply be the end of you. Just because he donated his seed, doesn’t make him father.”

“Jeanette, your language.” Katharine said giving her a stern look. “And yes, it is what I’m going to try to do. If nothing else, his father can be the perfect example of what not to be. I doubt that William is going to take much interest in raising him at any point.” Sighing she picked up her teacup and took a sip. “Please help me with this Jeanette, by not speaking ill of Colonel Tavington whilst my son is about.”

Jeanette gave a sigh and just looked at her a moment, “Alright. As long as it’s known that it’s because I love you, my sister. Not because I want to help that murdering miscreant in any capacity.” She took a deep drink of her tea before looking at Katharine and regaining her smile, “Now, you must see Andrew in his new uniform as soon as possible. He is so handsome, I’ll bet that I’m envied to have him as my husband by all who see him.”

“When do the two of you think you’ll start a family?” She said softly, filling her teacup once again. “I saw how you were looking at young William. I know that you want one of your own.”

“Not for a while yet, after all, Andrew just started this new assignment and it would be best for him to settle in for a while before we even start thinking of having children of our own. I would rather wait until we returned to England anyway, Katharine. I have family there and my mother is there to help me with a new baby. I’d be afraid to have it here.”

“Well, I can’t exactly say that it’s been a picnic. I’ve lost count of how many nursemaids and nanny’s that we have gone through since young William was born.” She sipped her tea again as the clock started to chime in the hallway.

“It’s getting close to supper time, I should go and change into something less casual. General Cornwallis has invited Andrew and I to dine with him this evening. Maybe you could come too?”

“Oh . . . I couldn’t Jeanette. Not while William is on leave. As you know, Lord Cornwallis isn’t very fond of us at the moment. I doubt it’ll be a pleasant experience if he and I come with you.” Jeanette’s frowned and sighed, this is exactly why she loathed William with absolute passion and hate.

“Andrew should be riding in soon, so I should hurry and get myself ready.” Katharine stood as did Jeanette and she hugged her tightly. “Perhaps tomorrow we could go out and you can show me around the city?”

“I would be delighted to take you around. It’ll give us some time away from all the soldiers and officers. We could feel like civilians for a few hours.” Jeanette smiled and hugged her one more time before quickly hurrying off and leaving Katharine alone. William passed Jeanette in the hallway and they gave each other a hateful glare and Jeanette gave him a spiteful smile. Wouldn’t it be absolutely wonderful if she fell and broke her blasted neck? Tavington pushed the door open to Katharine’s room and shut it behind him locking the door.

“The King must be getting desperate for officers to promote someone from a lower class like those two are from. Of course, it’s of little surprise considering how the militia has been targeting officers before even thinking about touching the lesser ranks.”

Katharine turned and looked at him, “What? William . . . when were you going to tell me about this?” She stood and walked towards him, “How long has this been going on? Is there nothing that can be done about it?”

Tavington shook his head and reached up grasping her shoulders to quiet her, “I wasn’t going to tell you at all. Some renegade farmer whose deadliest weapon has been a pitchfork for many years is using his 15 minutes of fame. That is all, nothing more. And yes, something is being done about it, since Lord Cornwallis has ordered me to find this ‘Ghost’ and capture him. Dead or alive.” Half a smile came to his face as he looked at her. “Are you really so concerned about my safety?”

Katharine caught herself, and quickly thought of a way to cover her slip of tongue, “Absolutely not, I am concerned about Andrew’s safety. Jeanette would be heartbroken and completely devastated if he was to get injured in anyway or killed.” It was to late, since it was quite apparent to William exactly what she had meant. Katherine felt completely frustrated at this and turned away from him as she went to the table clearing the cups and tea to the side.

“I would rather that you did not associate yourself with them while you are here. It wouldn’t do for you and her to go about flaunting their newfound place in social standing.” He said as he unbuttoned his jacket.

“On the contrary William, I intend to ask her to stay with me when our home is declared safe to live in again.” Tavington turned and glared at her. The mere thought of sharing a roof with that woman and her husband turned his stomach in unimaginable ways.

“By God you will not! I refuse, REFUSE to share a home with that . . . that . . .trollop! I will not have her around you or my son 24 hours a day, which is completely unacceptable!!!” He roared at her.

“Oh WILLIAM, you are rarely ever there anyway, except for your few and far between leaves! I wouldn’t mind a little company and a little help with Will. I think I’m entitled to a little happiness in my life!” She said standing her ground and staring at him.

“And as your husband I am more then entitled to forbid it! She is a bad influence on you in so many areas I can’t even begin to list, and as strained and difficult as things are between us right now, I don’t want her anywhere near you!!!”

“SHE IS MY BEST FRIEND WILLIAM! She is a Sister to me and always has been! Every since we were children! You cannot honestly forbid me to dismiss her as though she was nothing at all! She was everything to me, she was the only family I had left after my father died!”

“God forbid that you attempt to remember that you were married at the time of your fathers death! I should think that your husband would be family enough, and more then a single rapscallion who thinks herself worthy of breaking her way into the aristocracy!”

“If you remember, William, you were away when my father died. On a trip to Italy, supposedly with a unit of soldiers. You honestly think I don’t know where you were and who you were with? Yes, she was my family.”

“I came back as soon as I received word of your fathers passing, Katharine. I did not ignore you or abandon you as you seem to want to remember. I made the arrangements for his burial and memorial so stop this incessant whining about how you were the victim!”

“YOU BROUGHT HER BACK WITH YOU, WILLIAM! She came to his funeral! How can you stand there and try to make me believe you were so concerned about my welfare! You were overjoyed that he had died, since it was you who inherited everything my family had in this world! My dowry was enough to replenish your family name and part of your fortune. When my father passed, you became more wealthy then your family ever was in your lifetime!”

“I DID NOT INVITE HER TO ATTEND! I did not even approve of her showing her face at such a time! I sent her away immediately, did I not? You say that I married you and eagerly awaited your fathers death . . . all right! ALRIGHT, I admit to that much if it makes you feel any more at ease! Yes I wanted your fortune and your dowry, perhaps that is one of the reasons I married you, perhaps it was the main reason at the time! There is nothing that can change the past, I cannot bring your father back and I cannot change what was done! Now leave the past where it belongs, in the past!” reaching out he captured her arm once again and pulled her to him. “STOP this Katharine, STOP! I’ve grown weary of constantly fighting with you over trivial nonsense! It’s as though you simply search for a reason to fight and nothing more!” He looked at her for a moment, remembering just last night when she lay in his arms just content to be there, even though she was reprehensive at first. He pulled her harder against him and kissed her hungrily, consuming her mouth greedily.

Katharine started to pull away only to have him wrap his arms around her and squeeze her body against his own. She cried out into his mouth but still he held her tightly. Slowly, as she did the night before, she began to submit to his affections, if they could be called that and slowly her arms wrapped around his neck and she began to return his kisses. He moved his arms just for a moment and then wrapped something around her neck that was cold, before cradling her face in his hands and kissing her deeply. She could barely breathe, and felt dizzy just from the kiss. Her hand slowly reached up to touch the object and she looked down, but was unable to quite see what it was, with the chain so short. His hands moved down to her shoulders as his thumbs rubbed her arms slightly.

She turned and walked to the vanity, and her eyes grew wide seeing the necklace that he had given her. A huge, beautiful emerald pendant encrusted with smaller diamonds around its edges. It held to her neck by a chain of pure silver and hung close to her throat. “It’s . . . it’s beautiful.” She whispered in awe. Tavington smiled and walked up behind her wrapping his arms around her waist.

“For our Anniversary, Katherine. Long over due at that.” He said as he leaned down and kissed her shoulder. Katharine couldn’t help but simply stare into the mirror. He had never, ever given her anything before that she could remember. Nothing in the form of a gift anyway, her wedding ring was mostly just protocol. But this . . . this was actually a gift, a beautiful magnificent one at that. What could she possibly say to this? It must have been where he disappeared to shortly after they arrived at the quartering house.

“Oh William . . .” She breathed, wishing she could say something more but there were no words. He smiled seeing the absolute shock in her face. She turned around and wrapped her arms about him hugging him tightly resting her head against his shoulder. He grinned and held her in his arms firmly.

“Now, that wasn’t so hard was it?” He said softly with a chuckle, taking the opportunity to stroke her hair as he had done before. Her hair was so incredibly soft. “It looks quite beautiful when adorned by you my dear. Yet it tends to pale next to your beauty.”

Katharine pulled back and smiled slyly. “It feels like you are trying to flatter me for some reason my dear William.” She said trying not to giggle like some giddy schoolgirl. “I’ll wear it to the ball on Saturday, it matches my new gown.” She said running her fingers over the stunning object once more.

“Oh Lord, not another one of those dull, mind numbing gatherings of mindless aristocrats that consider everything about this war to be nothing more then an outing on Sunday afternoon.” He sighed looking at her, “But, I think it will be worth it just to see you wear this and your new dress.” He said touching her neck gently where her pendant rested. “Now, it is nearly supper time. Make sure you eat more then your share, will you? You’ve become so dreadfully thin since you came from England. I would like that to be remedied as soon as possible.”

“Honestly. Are you hoping to have the biggest wife in all of England? I would think that you would like my size to be small and petite.”

“I’d rather have you strong and healthy. Your not a very intimidating adversary when you are so thin.” Reaching down he swept her up into his arms with no effort at all. “When I can pick you up and swing you about like a feather, it tends to make you a lot less formidable.”

“William, put me down.” She said still smiling. “There was never a time I can remember when you couldn’t pick me up you know. I think your just imagining things. I’m told that a lot of women are never thin again after having a child. We should count our blessings.”

“You count your blessings all you want, but while you are doing so, make an effort to fill out your dresses again.” He grinned evilly, “Although it seems certain parts of you have remained impressive through all that has happened.” Leaning down he pressed his teeth against her right breast slightly still holding her in his arms. She gasped a little as her eyes went wide.

“WILLIAM.” She said horrified and shocked at first. Then the startled look melted away into a smile as he looked up at her with mischief in his eyes. “There are times when you are far beyond incorrigible.”

“Try to tell me that you don’t enjoy those times, Katharine. I know better.” He leaned down and pressed his teeth against her other breast through her clothing more then happy to entice her to the best of his ability. She giggled a little bit, unable to suppress it. However, their brief interlude was interrupted when a knock came to the door.

“Who is it?” Katharine called out as Tavington let her stand to her feet once again. Katharine straightened out her skirts, and straightened her hair a bit.

“It’s feeding time for the young one miss! I came to take him for a while!” The voice of Will’s nursemaid came through the door. Katharine walked over to the bassinet to see that Will stirred at the sound of the woman’s voice and her face fell. It felt like something was squeezing her chest, and it was hard to breathe.

Swallowing back the emotions that were threaten to jump out from deep with in her, she swept young William up into her arms and rocked him slightly against her. However, Will wanted food and knew she was not the one to give it to him and he started to fuss and cry.

Tavington went over to the door and unlocked it letting the woman in, who smiled and curtsied at him before walking over to Katharine. “Shall I take him now miss?” She said as Will fussed even more. Katharine just stood there, almost in shock slowly handing him to the woman. Instantly, the baby recognized her and stopped crying but fussed to let her know he was hungry. She smiled at Katharine and left the room carrying him in her arms. Tavington closed the door behind her and pulled the lock again and turned to look at Katharine. She stayed in place, her back to him, and her arms dropped impotently to her sides.

“It’s as though he . . . as if I’m not his mother . . .” She whispered, still not moving. Tavington sighed and walked up behind her resting his hands on her shoulders and rubbing them gently with his fingertips.

“Of course you’re his mother, Katharine. Don’t take it to heart so. Nearly all of the women of your station tend to have nursemaids and nanny’s to look after the children. There is no reason for you to feel guilty because this is how things are for us as well. He won’t need a nursemaid forever you know. As I have expressed to you before, it will only be a few years.”

“Years that will forever be lost to me.” She whispered, trying to keep her voice from breaking. “Even your own mother nursed you, William. She told me.”

“Would you mind terribly, refraining from sharing certain knowledge of what my mother has done or did in her life time or in mine. It’s not something that I wish to know of, Katharine. In fact it’s perhaps the source of my worst nightmares.” Reaching up, she quickly wiped the tears away from her face and Tavington sighed. Yet again, a perfect opportunity ruined after the pains taking effort to get her to a mood were a repeat of last night could take place.

“We should . . . really prepare for dinner William.” She said softly, dismissing him with her words. It seemed as though she wanted to be alone for right now. Tavington sighed, there was nothing more to say, nothing more that could be said. He simply stepped back and let her be as she wanted.

That night, a knock came to Katharine’s room door, and she quickly went to answer it. Tavington looked up from his desk and paused writing for a moment. She greeted Andrew and Jeanette as they came in, and Katharine smiled happy to see them both. “It’s good to see you again Andrew, I hope that your voyage from England was a pleasant one.” Lord Botts smiled and took her hand kissing the back of it gently. William rolled his eyes and looked back down at his parchment continuing to write. As they sat, Katharine offered them a drink, which they accepted. “Congratulations on your promotion. I was so happy for you both when Jeanette told me. What command have you taken?”

“It’s a unit of Dragoons, a small one but I’m told that more recruits and soldiers are being added to it as time goes by.” Andrew glanced over to William a moment, before looking back to Katharine. It was painfully obvious that the soldiers that were being added to Andrew’s unit were being transferred from William’s. A chill went up Katharine’s spine, realizing that Jeanette and Andrew both had the same opinion of Colonel Tavington, and it could become very unpleasant before to long.

“Really? A new unit of Dragoons? That’s wonderful. William could use the aid in the war. Perhaps you could take the opposite flank of his unit and then together pursue the Colonial army with better results.” She said trying to keep the subject as light as possible. Her eyes glances at William briefly, and saw that his jaw had become clinched tight. She thought it best to change the subject as quickly as possible, “Isn’t this beautiful country? The winters can be a bit unpleasant but the spring, summer and fall everything is so incredibly breathtaking. There are flowers and tree’s here that I can’t recall ever seeing in England.”

“Yes, I suspect that I shall see much of the countryside in our companies. Since the Dragoons tend to travel further then any other units of soldiers in the army. Scouting, patrolling, picking up after other units that leave rather messy loose ends waving about.” Katharine could almost feel Tavington’s temper slowly rising, and felt a slight sense of panic for some reason deep inside. “General Cornwallis,” Andrew continued before Katharine could say anything else, “Mentioned that there were some difficulties that would be overcome if he had a trustworthy officer like myself to follow his orders and get the job done. I think I’m more then up to the task. These Colonial’s are so incredibly ignorant, it should be like taking candy from children.”

“You would be surprised, Andrew. Just because they don’t fight like we do, doesn’t mean that they don’t know how to fight.” Katharine remembered that day when she was alone in the woods and the dead slowly drifted down the stream before her eyes. “All of the men suffer the same, and once they’re dead . . . it doesn’t seem to matter what color they wore while they were alive.” Her voice grew quiet as though she retreated into her own memories. “You must be careful Andrew, don’t underestimate them. Jeanette would be devastated to lose you.”

Jeanette smiled and took Andrew’s hand in hers looking at him with dancing stars in her eyes. “He’s one of the best. That’s why the king promoted him, and why he sent him here to be under General Cornwallis’s command. Since it’s not in his nature to slaughter women and children, I don’t think he’ll become the target of every Colonial in the colonies.”

Katharine looked at Jeanette and quickly cut her off in a low voice, “Jeanette, please.” She said trying to warn her that this was not going to get them anywhere but into a dreadful situation.

“Which is exactly why your presence here, is going to make the war last three times as long as it should.” Tavington snapped without even so much as an upward glance. Andrew and Jeanette both tensed as their eyes turned towards William. Katharine quickly stood and Andrew and Jeanette did as well.

“We have a long day of shopping ahead of us tomorrow, Jeanette. And I know that Andrew will be anxious to rejoin his unit in the morning. We should retire for the evening, it is growing late.” She said as she started moving them both towards the door.

“But, Katharine. I wanted Andrew to see Will. He’s such a handsome young child; can’t we at least look in on him while he’s asleep? We won’t disturb him.” She said as Katharine opened the door and hurried them out into the hallway.

“Tomorrow would be a better time, Jeanette. He’s sleeping in the nursery with his nanny. I promise that you will see him before Andrew leaves.” Katharine stepped back into the room and smiled, “Goodnight.” She said as she closed the door quickly. Turning around she leaned against the door to see William standing at the table and pouring himself a full glass of wine. He was not happy in the slightest. Picking up the glass he drank it down in nearly one swallow. “William . . .please don’t start drinking this late. You will be up all night, and in a foul mood tomorrow.”

“ ‘Not in his nature to slaughter women and children’,” William repeated mimicking Jeanette’s words as sarcastically as could be as he filled his wine glass again. “Of course not, he’s a trophy pet for the King and General Cornwallis. God forbid that he even attempt to do his job and bring this war to a swift end. It might displease those who dangle promotions and social standing in front of his nose like an obedient dog.” Turning and looking at her a moment, “And you. You believe everything that they tell you, you think I am a monster who murders civilians and drink their blood. Isn’t that how the rumors go? Or have they made up new ones that have not yet reached my ears.” He filled the glass and emptied it again.

Katharine slowly walked passed him and sat down at the desk. “I don’t think that of you, William. You know that much. You are a solider, I’ve seen what you see every day you are out their with the Green Dragoons.” Tavington turned and looked at her for a moment. “I think the monsters are the ones who consider any part of war ‘gentlemanly’. Or a giant chess game that can be played without regard for the pieces, that die in horrid ways.” Her eyes turned up to look at him, “I’ve seen what you see, William. And he’ll see it soon too.” William turned away and emptied the glass again before filling it once more.

“You have a woman’s grasp on war, Katharine. You were caught in the ugliest part of it, and were exposed to things you never should have been exposed to. It has matured you far beyond what you were when you first arrived.” He emptied the glass one more time and put it down as he walked over to her. “Do you honestly think that your Friendship with Jeanette will ever be as it was before when she is still so naïve?”. Reaching for Katharine’s wrist he pulled her from the chair as he made his way to the bed. Katharine had to pick up her feet quickly so she wouldn’t fall and possibly be dragged behind him.

Perhaps he didn’t realize how hard he was pulling, or perhaps he just didn’t care. Wrestling with his conscience as he did from time to time, he would try to take his mind off of it in anyway possible. Reaching the bed, he jerked her arm spinning her before him as he reached up and captured her face in his hands kissing her hard on the mouth. After a moment she pulled pack from him trying to catch her breath, “William, you’ve been drinking . . .” She began, but it was no use. He quickly consumed her mouth once again cutting off any thing else she might have to say. She started to pull away again only to find his hand wrap around the front of her dress and jerk her back roughly once again.

“Stop.” She said quickly between rough kisses. “William STOP!” She said more firmly this time and reached up digging her nails deep in his chest so he couldn’t move forward to molest her mouth again without causing serious injury to himself. As she had said, he stopped and just starred at her. “William, please. Just go to sleep and wait for the alcohol to wear off. You know I can’t stand you in this condition.”

“And why should you.” He said with a glare. “You never have before, and although it seems to be the 3 months for first’s between us, apparently this one isn’t good enough for you to attempt.” Yes, that was the alcohol talking, and the foul mood she mentioned that usually accompanied it.

“If you really must know, you hurt me when you are like this. Why do you think I do not tolerate you when you have been drinking?” Tavington rolled his eyes and walked away. It was obvious he didn’t want to hear any of this.

“I see not even gems and silver will even turn your fancy.” He grumbled. Katharine felt as though a knife was stuck into her heart. She followed after him and took a breath.

“Is that why you bought me this? Is that why you wanted me to have this, instead of for our anniversary like you said it was for?” Tavington wished she wouldn’t follow him around when he wanted to get away from her.

“YES!” He roared at her taking a drink. However, he furrowed his brow and shook his head. “No . . . no that is not the reason I gave it to you.” He started to take another drink but stopped and slammed the glass down. “Must you always be so damn . . .” he started.

Katharine looked at him for several long moments, and slowly moved beside him. After a moment, she reached up and rested her hand on his shoulder. It was strange to Tavington and he said nothing nor moved. Slowly, Katharine rested her head against his shoulder and ran her hand down his arm.

He sighed, and turned around holding her close burying his face in her shoulder. Perhaps this was the one and only time in his entire life, when he made any sort of gesture of surrender to anyone as he did now. Katherine wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tight. No one could be strong, all the time. Not even the notorious Colonel Tavington.

The next morning, Tavington awoke first and saw Katharine had stayed with him the entire night, as she had promised that she would. His eyes wondered over her face slowly. 11 years of marriage, and it seemed he didn’t know this woman at all. New surprises came with her each and every day.

A loud pounding came to the door causing Katharine to jump and her eyes to open. Tavington leaned his weight against her to hold her down, “Shhh, go back to sleep. I’ll see what it is.” Giving a sigh he moved from the bed as the pounding came to the door again. He jerked the door open and glared at the private.

“Sir. General Cornwallis has ordered all officers to return to their posts immediately. All leaves have been canceled.” He gave his salute and walked away to go to the next room to inform it’s occupant. Tavington closed the door and shook his head then went to go and get his things together.

Jeanette and Katharine accompanied each other to the ball, since their husbands were not there to escort them. They had both been informed that Lord Botts and Lord Tavington would meet with them once they arrived. Jeanette noticed Katherine had been deathly silent since they left. She moved over to sit close to her and took her hand, “Try not to worry Katharine. Will’s fever will subside and he’ll get better soon.”

“I just don’t know if it’s a good idea for me to leave him like this. I should be there with him, watching over him as a good mother should.” Jeanette sighed and gave Katharine a hug.

It wasn’t to long before the two women walked through the doors of the manor of the hosts that were giving the ball. They were greeted and their things taken to be put in a safe place until they would leave. Jeanette turned to see the shining Emerald necklace that Katharine wore and her eyes went wide. “Katharine, that necklace is absolutely beautiful.” She said reaching over and touching it to get a closer look.

“I think it matches my dress quite well.” She said reaching up and wrapping her fingers around the pendant. She hadn’t taken it off since William gave it to her. The only gift she could remember him ever giving her, because he wanted to. Not because protocol dictated that he had to.

“Oh yes it does. I’ll bet when William finds out how much it costs, he’ll be angry enough to send you back to England. You are a clever one, Katharine.” She said with a grin. Katharine just looked at her a moment, and half smiled nodding. Perhaps William was right, she had matured a little more in certain areas then Jeanette since she left home. Together, the two women walked out of the house to mingle with the other guests. It seemed that the officers, including William and Andrew had not returned as of yet.

After a while, Katharine wondered from Jeanette who had been cornered by a number of wives and others who learned of her and her husbands good fortune. Needless to say, Katharine’s reputation went with Tavington’s and she was not desired as one to be included in a conversation. She walked slowly, feeling very anxious about getting back to watch over Will until his fever broke. Why did children seem to be of such small importance to the aristocracy that they would insist on her leaving him at a time like this to attend a ball.

Absent-mindedly she wondered into a secluded part of the nearby garden and found a stone bench where she could sit. There were beautiful roses in bloom all around that gave off the most pleasant of scents and a cool breeze blew through her hair as she folded her hands in her lap.

“A beautiful woman, such as yourself, should not be alone at a ball without a Gentlemen.” A voice came. Her eyes moved up as she saw a tall man standing beside the doorway into the small square. “Perhaps this is why you do not choose to mingle with the other guests and wish to remain in solitude”

The thick accent of his voice caused Katharine confusion as to why he was here at a British ball. “You are French.” She stated wondering why on earth a Frenchmen was here when his country was not on their side of this war.

He smiled and walked towards her, “Yes, my lady is quite correct. You are very perceptive. Perhaps you have spent time in my beloved country yourself at one point?” Something was terribly wrong with this situation, she could feel it.

“Are you a spy?” She said bluntly. She meant to think it, but it jumped out of her mouth before she had a chance to stop it. The French were not to be trusted, not where war was concerned. They were perhaps the most unpredictable of people when it came to any sort of conflict.

He chuckled slightly as he reached for her hand and took it in his own. He swooped down low and smiled at her, kissing the back of her hand ever so gently. “As I said, my lady is a very perceptive woman.” With in an instant, the gentle way he had been holding her hand turned into a tight merciless grip as he held her in place and produced a cloth soaked in a most foul smelling substance placing it over her nose and mouth. When she started to struggle, he released her wrist and held the back of her neck. Slowly, her struggles weakened as she soon fell limp and unconscious. The man looked about quickly to make sure that no one had seen or heard the commotion and put the cloth away. He hoisted Katharine over his shoulder and quickly made his way from the estate as swiftly as he could move.