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Show Page 44 Shouts and thunderous oaths wakened us early the next morning ere the eastering sun had scarce risen above the ocean rim. My stomach was a-tremble with fear, thinking we were being attacked by Indians (of which I had thus far seen naught) But when Captain Pierce went grumbling out the door, muttering about young hotheads who could not keep the peace for a single day, my fear was quieted. We dressed quickly to go and see what the skirmish was all about. Just as we were leaving, a young man came dashing to the door. "Mistress Bell," he said. "Happy I am to see you out so early. I was hoping I could escort you to the scene of the quarrel. The reason for it will bring a smile to your rosy lips I'll wager." "Why Cisly Mills, whatever do you mean?" Anne asked. It was then I realized the young man was the one who had Anne in such a swivet. And they did make a perfect couple. His hair was even redder than Anne's and his face so splotched with freckles they nigh marched in columns across his nose and cheeks. His eyes were the color of the sky and fair sparkled with good humor. I truly believed he was the man Anne had hoped for. "Why 'tis Edward Howe and Henry Leaven," he stated, as though that explained everything. When we both looked puzzled, he added, "You know, Anne, the two men that dark-haired wench promised to marry." |