"Mister Dunlop is one of the few men who can still afford to buy our jewels, albeit with a little encouragement," Caleb said, closing the gate to the corral behind the two horses he and his brother had just unsaddled. How long have you known?"

Uriah brushed the dirt off his pants. "For years. I happened upon his secret quite by accident and he spent nearly an hour begging me not to tell Mary. I rather enjoyed it."

"Will he give the diamonds to his mistress?"

"I doubt we will see them around the neck of Mrs. Dunlop."

Caleb started up the back steps behind his brother, "It is a very fine day for Mary's ball. It is pleasant for March and John has recovered well."

"Times have changed. We will not see the liveliness we once did. Even our musicians are short members"

When the guests arrived the differences were profound. Candles were lit on the walls, fresh flowers were in abundance and servants still tended the needs of the guests. But the guests arrived in smaller numbers. The clothing was not so elegant, men were scarce and the food was not so grand. Yet Mahala was once more filled with the sounds of music, dancing and laughter. Mary was pleased.

Most of the Carsons and Hendersons were seated along the west wall of the assembly room. The younger ones mingled with the guests and danced to the music.