Chapter XI - Day of Reckoning   ... While riding to town, I recall past presents and celebrations. Although the gifts throughout the years were appreciated, none were quite as special as on my twenty-first birthday. It was only three years ago when Father and Mother surprised me with Gabriel. I remember him as a young colt, wobbling to stand. Now he is a powerful steed, and can journey long and hard. Although well behaved, he is still spirited, and enjoys romping in a wide-open pasture. Mother says the love of an animal molds our sense of caring and compassion. She believes everyone should experience this unique bond. Gabriel and I have certainly shared the reality of her conviction. After dismounting him at the courthouse, I pat his long muscular neck and slip him a lump of sugar. He looks at me and whinnies, surely a sign of gratitude ...   ... The commotion attracts patrons inside the tavern to investigate. A huge brawny man with large biceps confronts me. “Hey, that’s my horse!” “Who might you be, sir?” “I am Benjamin Brown, the blacksmith. What are you doin’?” “This animal belongs to my brother. Where did you get it?” “I bought this horse fair and square!” “Who sold it to you?” “A man named George Clark.” “That is not my brother. You have been hoodwinked.” “Mister, I don’t know who you are or what you’re up to, but you’re going to get coldcocked.” He draws back his immense fisted arm, but hastily squirms to his knees, grimacing ...   ... “Your Honor, and members of the jury, please permit me to enter the hands of the defendant as evidence.” The courtroom stirs with noise, joined by a banging gavel. “Order! Order!” cries the judge, as calm promptly prevails. “Your Honor and respected jurymen, please allow yourselves to feel the hands of the accused.” Attorney Heath leads Lavinia to the bench and jury box, while each man caresses her soft womanly hands. Her dimples take shape as she flahes her captivating smile. The men appear flattered. “Gentlemen, these soft delicate hands harmed the burly neck of Mister Ross? He certainly must be at the mercy of his wife.” The courtroom bursts into laughter ...   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