"I adore summer in Virginia," Mary said, opening the window so the cool breeze could blow through the house. She straightened the rug with her foot and curled up next to Uriah on the davenport.

"And I adore you." He put his arm around her.

"Are you very disappointed that we have taken the smaller sitting room?"

He kissed her forehead, "I am quite surprised we did not think of it sooner. With six daughters, Caleb and Elizabeth need the larger one," "My but you are friendly this evening. I begin to wonder if you have designs on me, Sir?"

He lifted her chin and kissed her lips. "Indeed I do," "What has inspired this occasion?"

"Perhaps it is because we are rarely alone. There are so many of us now, and I have not spent as much time with you as I would like."

Mary leaned her head against his shoulder, "My love, what is it?"

Uriah closed his eyes, "There is no cause for alarm."

"What then?"

"I was reminded of my father today. When butcher Cumberland passed, I believed I could finally re­solve my hate. But today I saw a look in my brother's eyes that reminded me of father, and I was once again furious that Caleb was robbed of knowing him. Caleb approaches . . ." He was interrupted by a knock on the door.