Chapter XII - Fall Harvest   ... “Oh, Adam, I do love you.” “As I love you, but now I must return to Shiloh.” “Please don’t leave me.” She droops her head sniffling. “I will never leave you, but must assist with the rice harvest. I promise to return whenever possible.” She looks at me teary-eyed while nodding. I tenderly kiss her, and release my close embrace. I look into her eyes, and feel my heart throbbing. In a burst of passion, I press my lips hard against hers. We kiss madly, and cannot hug close enough. She moans with every caress of my hand. I love her so much. Then I reluctantly slide my fingers down her arm, lastly squeezing her hand while walking away. She reaches toward me smiling as a lone tear streams down her cheek ...   ... The Charleston epidemic plagues the city through the onset of winter. I write to Lavinia in October and November, and the last reply reveals her innermost feelings: November 19, 1819 Adam My Love, I hear the fever epidemic is subsiding. The hand of the scourge took one inmate, cheating the executioner. Several others were not so fortunate when passing from this world. My days are long and filled with boredom. Fortunately, Sheriff Cleary and Rufus provide me books to pass the time. I am appreciative of the window in my cell, although the stenches still loom throughout the building. The food remains less than appetizing but fills my empty stomach. I hope for the granting of a retrial that will prove my innocence of ...   ... December 10, 1819 My Dearest Lavinia,  Know I am with you in spirit this Christmas season. Try to relieve your mind of anguished thoughts, and remember that I love you dearly. Please accept the enclosed gift as a token of our love. I will return to Charleston next month in time for your appeal before the ... My loving affection, Adam ...   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