The Courtship
Ross told us that Firefly is an Andalusian horse bred for war. They're an agile and noble breed. He has helped raise horses since he was a young child. Little did we know till then, Ross was the one who sold her to us.
David inquired, “Papa, why don’t you ever talk about your horses?”
“Well, I’m not ashamed to say my two beautiful horses are your run-of-the-mill workhorses.” Papa smiled and winked. He’d bought Gideon and Nicodemus before we ever came into the picture. But he’s right; they are beautiful animals!
“Ross and I have inventory to count and some work to do.” Papa continued, “So, you two youngins try to get some rest, and I’ll lie down here shortly.”
We are all exhausted from our journeys and the constant exposure to grief, so I understand why my young brother began complaining about his worn pillow and tattered clothing. Papa understood too and comforted him by saying he was working on it. He offered David his pillow in trade. Though it wasn’t much better, David kindly refused, and he and I laid down to rest.
After we slept for a short time, we woke up to the smell of beef jerky wrapped within a thin cloth that Ross had left us.
Papa had returned, and while he nibbled on a piece of jerky we had saved him, he asked what I thought about Ross.
“He's a very polite young Christian man and gentle with the patients….” Blushing a bit. “And he is good-looking.”
Papa grinned, “He said, in a different time and place, he’d ask to court you. I told him whether in war or peace, let the purity of love grow and thrive. I’m not saying he loves you, but if you like him, allow your romance to blossom. I’ll not step in the way or stop it as long as it’s biblical.”
“He’s five years older, though. He’s twenty-one, and I’m only sixteen.”
“That isn’t a terrible difference. I was four years older than my wife. Just pray and think about it.”
I turned my head away with a big smile and told Papa I would. Several young men are interested in me here, but none of them are like Ross. He would be — well, hush mind. I need to get ready for my day. Yes, he would be a great catch for any girl, especially me. He started as a private, but his medical background moved him to Papa’s assistant. He’s been with the regiment since day one. Nurses get paid $1 more a month with less hazard of getting shot at, so his move to the medical staff was a logical one.
Papa wants to get us stationed in a hospital, but they need us here for now. I am sort of happy we are staying since Ross has admitted to liking me. He’s so shy. We’ve been traveling for over a year, and he is just finally able to share his feelings. Maybe that is why I admire him more than all the others who flirt with me all the time. Something about him seems more attractive and genuine.
David inquired, “Papa, why don’t you ever talk about your horses?”
“Well, I’m not ashamed to say my two beautiful horses are your run-of-the-mill workhorses.” Papa smiled and winked. He’d bought Gideon and Nicodemus before we ever came into the picture. But he’s right; they are beautiful animals!
“Ross and I have inventory to count and some work to do.” Papa continued, “So, you two youngins try to get some rest, and I’ll lie down here shortly.”
We are all exhausted from our journeys and the constant exposure to grief, so I understand why my young brother began complaining about his worn pillow and tattered clothing. Papa understood too and comforted him by saying he was working on it. He offered David his pillow in trade. Though it wasn’t much better, David kindly refused, and he and I laid down to rest.
After we slept for a short time, we woke up to the smell of beef jerky wrapped within a thin cloth that Ross had left us.
Papa had returned, and while he nibbled on a piece of jerky we had saved him, he asked what I thought about Ross.
“He's a very polite young Christian man and gentle with the patients….” Blushing a bit. “And he is good-looking.”
Papa grinned, “He said, in a different time and place, he’d ask to court you. I told him whether in war or peace, let the purity of love grow and thrive. I’m not saying he loves you, but if you like him, allow your romance to blossom. I’ll not step in the way or stop it as long as it’s biblical.”
“He’s five years older, though. He’s twenty-one, and I’m only sixteen.”
“That isn’t a terrible difference. I was four years older than my wife. Just pray and think about it.”
I turned my head away with a big smile and told Papa I would. Several young men are interested in me here, but none of them are like Ross. He would be — well, hush mind. I need to get ready for my day. Yes, he would be a great catch for any girl, especially me. He started as a private, but his medical background moved him to Papa’s assistant. He’s been with the regiment since day one. Nurses get paid $1 more a month with less hazard of getting shot at, so his move to the medical staff was a logical one.
Papa wants to get us stationed in a hospital, but they need us here for now. I am sort of happy we are staying since Ross has admitted to liking me. He’s so shy. We’ve been traveling for over a year, and he is just finally able to share his feelings. Maybe that is why I admire him more than all the others who flirt with me all the time. Something about him seems more attractive and genuine.
***
At the battle of Port Republic, our regiment was noted for our exceptional service. One of David’s mentors, Sir Samuel, was strong as a mighty oak until some Yankee shot him down like a twig. A medic discovered him unconscious, curled over beneath a tree like a wilted leaf. The medical staff isn't optimistic. They are transferring him to a nearby hospital for better treatment and care. As we wait for his transport, I imagine he’ll soon be among the dead. I could accompany him and a few others being transferred, but I don’t want to leave Papa, David, and Ross. Neither the casualties nor my faintness of heart will prevent me from lending a helping hand to those here in need.
Today, I watched David cleaning guns with some of the camp’s men. They take great care of their weapons and comrades-in-arms. I find it an honor to serve alongside them despite all the sacrifices. I gradually stepped outside my comfort zone and spoke with a few of them, talking to Ross and David. It was quite a pleasant experience after getting past the sadness of hearing how they longed for home and their loved ones.
Ross cleaned out a seat next to him. “Would you like to sit?”
“Yes, I think I will.”
“Are you comfortable? I can fetch you a pillow if you’d like.”
But I was fine, I told him. We all sat there listing to David tell the story of David and Goliath. An older man said, “You mustn’t make up such tall tales of yourself.” We all laughed, but the man was serious. He lit his pipe and stiffened his lower lip, then grumbled as he stomped off, knocking the mud from his boots. I leaned over and whispered to Ross, “Now, that’s one peculiar man.”
“Indeed, he is….” Then he grinned as we both giggled. “But we must pray he finds the good LORD.”
“Yes, I agree.”
In such a smooth motion, Ross took me by the hand and led me on a short walk. We talked about the weather and the Southern army. Unlike the gentle touch of his hand, Ross’ words seemed stiff and jumbled. Around us, the camp was busy preparing to move out again, and before long, David trotted up to us, eager to share about a new friend he had met. After he finished, we both smiled, and Ross asked him if he could have another few moments with me alone.
“I have two school friends, Junior and Mildred, marrying soon, who I hope someday you can meet. Once Junior and I about burned down the outhouse. We dropped firecrackers in there to test a theory in science. Trust me when I say gases can make a flashy boom.” He froze mid-sentence and then stuttered, “Anyway, I didn’t mean to talk about gas, but about us considering a courtship. Most of my friends are already starting families. Not to say I’m in a rush or hurry,” he continued to trip all over his words.
I couldn’t take it anymore. “Ross Sutherland, you have a funny way of asking me to be your girl. You held me in abeyance and seeing you are in no haste, I’ll do the same. You may have my answer by the end of summer.” Then I ran to our wagon to get ready to leave.
“Papa…” I gushed.
“Help us finish getting things ready.”
“But Papa, he asked me to be in a courtship while talking about gas.”
“He’s just shy, is all.” Papa had a huge grin on his face.
“I know, but gas?”
“Well, was it funny?”
“Yes,” I stammered, “if he wasn’t asking me court him in the same breath.” Papa just stood with the same silly grin on his face. Amid my emotions, I suddenly laughed. Then Papa and I laughed together. It was sort of funny.
Today, I watched David cleaning guns with some of the camp’s men. They take great care of their weapons and comrades-in-arms. I find it an honor to serve alongside them despite all the sacrifices. I gradually stepped outside my comfort zone and spoke with a few of them, talking to Ross and David. It was quite a pleasant experience after getting past the sadness of hearing how they longed for home and their loved ones.
Ross cleaned out a seat next to him. “Would you like to sit?”
“Yes, I think I will.”
“Are you comfortable? I can fetch you a pillow if you’d like.”
But I was fine, I told him. We all sat there listing to David tell the story of David and Goliath. An older man said, “You mustn’t make up such tall tales of yourself.” We all laughed, but the man was serious. He lit his pipe and stiffened his lower lip, then grumbled as he stomped off, knocking the mud from his boots. I leaned over and whispered to Ross, “Now, that’s one peculiar man.”
“Indeed, he is….” Then he grinned as we both giggled. “But we must pray he finds the good LORD.”
“Yes, I agree.”
In such a smooth motion, Ross took me by the hand and led me on a short walk. We talked about the weather and the Southern army. Unlike the gentle touch of his hand, Ross’ words seemed stiff and jumbled. Around us, the camp was busy preparing to move out again, and before long, David trotted up to us, eager to share about a new friend he had met. After he finished, we both smiled, and Ross asked him if he could have another few moments with me alone.
“I have two school friends, Junior and Mildred, marrying soon, who I hope someday you can meet. Once Junior and I about burned down the outhouse. We dropped firecrackers in there to test a theory in science. Trust me when I say gases can make a flashy boom.” He froze mid-sentence and then stuttered, “Anyway, I didn’t mean to talk about gas, but about us considering a courtship. Most of my friends are already starting families. Not to say I’m in a rush or hurry,” he continued to trip all over his words.
I couldn’t take it anymore. “Ross Sutherland, you have a funny way of asking me to be your girl. You held me in abeyance and seeing you are in no haste, I’ll do the same. You may have my answer by the end of summer.” Then I ran to our wagon to get ready to leave.
“Papa…” I gushed.
“Help us finish getting things ready.”
“But Papa, he asked me to be in a courtship while talking about gas.”
“He’s just shy, is all.” Papa had a huge grin on his face.
“I know, but gas?”
“Well, was it funny?”
“Yes,” I stammered, “if he wasn’t asking me court him in the same breath.” Papa just stood with the same silly grin on his face. Amid my emotions, I suddenly laughed. Then Papa and I laughed together. It was sort of funny.
***
Our next destination was just outside the city. Where our unit granted a few of us temporary leave. My family and I got a fresh bath and a delicious meal. It was the most delightful time we have experienced in months. However, even these memories became marred by the bustle of citizens and soldiers from all over the South preparing for what ended up being a seven-day scuffle that claimed Colonel Fulkerson's life and many others.
We fought at Gaines Mill, Frayser’s Farm, and on top of Malvern Hill. The Union escaped to a solid defensive position because of poorly executed orders and the delay of Stonewall Jackson’s troops. It was there the booming of the artillery finally quietened. Despite being overcome by the surrounding suffering, I clung to a chance of joy. I kissed Ross on the cheek and whispered in his ear, “I will.” Standing beside the operating table, exhausted and covered in blood, he turned toward me for a moment and smiled. Then, catching his second wind, Ross continued to stitch the wounded man’s hand.
Tired, I collapsed onto my mattress and prayed a brief prayer. “Dear God, bring Ross and my relationship together as the scripture, and heaven would have it be. Molding us into the shape, manner, fashion, and form of clarity only you can see. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.”
I should be sound asleep, but the nightmares haunt us all here. The torment we’ve all faced weighs on the soul. David has made many friends here, but he spends most of his time with Papa. I am getting to know Ross better. The guns and cannons have silenced for now while our unit marches forward. Ross has started his apprenticeship to become a doctor while I’m still training to become a nurse. I found out that David no longer wants to be a scientist. He has felt led to go into the ministry to preach when the war is over.
“Jesus, only you perceive how much I miss mom and dad. Especially now, as I look towards the day, I start a family of my own. I have such a longing for home, as we all do. Lord, please bring us peace between the states soon. Glory to your Holy name, amen.”
We fought at Gaines Mill, Frayser’s Farm, and on top of Malvern Hill. The Union escaped to a solid defensive position because of poorly executed orders and the delay of Stonewall Jackson’s troops. It was there the booming of the artillery finally quietened. Despite being overcome by the surrounding suffering, I clung to a chance of joy. I kissed Ross on the cheek and whispered in his ear, “I will.” Standing beside the operating table, exhausted and covered in blood, he turned toward me for a moment and smiled. Then, catching his second wind, Ross continued to stitch the wounded man’s hand.
Tired, I collapsed onto my mattress and prayed a brief prayer. “Dear God, bring Ross and my relationship together as the scripture, and heaven would have it be. Molding us into the shape, manner, fashion, and form of clarity only you can see. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.”
I should be sound asleep, but the nightmares haunt us all here. The torment we’ve all faced weighs on the soul. David has made many friends here, but he spends most of his time with Papa. I am getting to know Ross better. The guns and cannons have silenced for now while our unit marches forward. Ross has started his apprenticeship to become a doctor while I’m still training to become a nurse. I found out that David no longer wants to be a scientist. He has felt led to go into the ministry to preach when the war is over.
“Jesus, only you perceive how much I miss mom and dad. Especially now, as I look towards the day, I start a family of my own. I have such a longing for home, as we all do. Lord, please bring us peace between the states soon. Glory to your Holy name, amen.”
***
I was putting my last things away this morning when Papa called out.
“Emma, David, come on, Ross is waiting. He has fixed us all breakfast.” We all hurried as the sun was still rising; we’d be traveling again soon. Our family was thankful for the food, but Ross’s cooking had a lot to be desired.
David whispered to me, “Maybe it is best if you fix the meal next time.” I smiled at him and then thanked Ross for the food as we stood up to move out. I rode Firefly that day beside Ross as he rode Liberty. We had a pleasant talk about heaven. I could feel Papa watching us from afar in a fatherly way. The ride was lovely and peaceful.
But even in this peaceful moment, the threat of death and suffering pokes at our hearts.
“Ross, will you do me a favor?”
“Anything.”
“Never leave me. I’ve had enough loss in my lifetime.”
He casually reached over and patted me on the hand, and spoke with a soft voice. “If God allows it, I’ll be with you until we are both old.” Before we turned around to ride alongside David and Papa, he gently wiped a tear from my face.
“Emma, David, come on, Ross is waiting. He has fixed us all breakfast.” We all hurried as the sun was still rising; we’d be traveling again soon. Our family was thankful for the food, but Ross’s cooking had a lot to be desired.
David whispered to me, “Maybe it is best if you fix the meal next time.” I smiled at him and then thanked Ross for the food as we stood up to move out. I rode Firefly that day beside Ross as he rode Liberty. We had a pleasant talk about heaven. I could feel Papa watching us from afar in a fatherly way. The ride was lovely and peaceful.
But even in this peaceful moment, the threat of death and suffering pokes at our hearts.
“Ross, will you do me a favor?”
“Anything.”
“Never leave me. I’ve had enough loss in my lifetime.”
He casually reached over and patted me on the hand, and spoke with a soft voice. “If God allows it, I’ll be with you until we are both old.” Before we turned around to ride alongside David and Papa, he gently wiped a tear from my face.