Chapter I - Shiloh Plantation   ... Friday, February 18, 1821 While I turn toward Father's desk chair, a cracking bolt of lightning strikes. The soft candlelit room illuminates. I sit and pause, listening to the deluge of pounding water. My eyes shift to the ironclad strongbox as I scoot it in front of me. Slowly, I open the hinged top, and unfold one of its tattered letters. Once more, I read the first paragraph. The dancing candle flame rekindles the sentiment of my words held so dear. Dear Mother, I have fallen into love with the beautiful woman, Lavinia, now in your company. Please care for her as a daughter until my return. Leaning back in Father's chair, I gaze into space and reminisce life's journey. Before long, vivid memories consume the essence of my being. My story starts two years ago when I sat at this very desk ... ... “Mother, have you word from Father?” “Not recently. Pray for his cure.” She quavers and becomes teary-eyed while I gently pat her hand. Fatu returns with my steaming cup of tea. “Very hot, Mass Adam.” “Thank you, Fatu. You and baby Gumbu are doing well?” “Yaas, Mass Adam. We’s doin’ fine.” Her fortuitous interruption is well timed, prompting Mother to regain some composure. As Fatu walks away to resume sweeping, I pick up the piping hot beverage. “Mother, you know Father is strong willed. If medicines do not cure the aliment, his mind will.” I gingerly sip the scorching hot water as my eyes shift upward. Looking through the rising steam, she is again on the verge of tears ...   Continue to chapter ...   TABLE OF CONTENTS         Prologue I.      Shiloh Plantation II.     Six Mile House III.    The Arrival IV.    Charleston Tour V.     Highwaymen VI.    Fires of Hell VII.   City Bastille VIII.  Coming of Age IX.    Presidential Ball X.     Voyage of Faith XI.    Day of Reckoning XII.   Fall Harvest XIII.  New Year Politics XIV.  Lurking Danger XV.   Steps to Eternity XVI.  Haunting Love