Exile

"Amen," said the girls in unison.

"Goodnight children. I shall see you in the morning," Miss Brigham said. She went to the doorway, inspecting Samantha's arms up close. "Your wounds look much better now."

"They feel better too," Samantha said.

"That's wonderful, dear. In the morning we'll discuss your new assignment."

"You know?"

"Of course, dear. The reverend discussed it with me this afternoon. I think it's a wonderful idea to make the best use of your talents."

"Thank you, Miss Brigham. I won't let you down."

To Samantha's surprise, Miss Brigham gave her a hug. "I'm certain you won't. Now, off to bed with you. We have much to do tomorrow."

Samantha nodded and bounced away, rushing over to Prudence. "Did you hear?" she asked.

"Hear what?"

"The reverend wants me to be Miss Brigham's assistant. And he promised to find my family. Isn't it great?"

Prudence nodded, but didn't smile. "It is good news."

Samantha knelt down in front of her friend's bed. "Aren't you happy for me?"

"I am happy for you. But I don't want you to get your hopes up. There are some things not even the reverend can do."

"If he does find them, you can come with me."

"Leave Eternity? I don't know-"

"Why not? Don't you want to see what's beyond the island? It'll be fun. And I'm sure whomever my family is, they'll be more than happy to have you around. If I like you and they're my family they should like you too, right?"