The Mansion in Honey Island Swamp

By Catalena Tortorici

Once a grand mansion that sat next to an unforgiving and deadly swamp, now it lies in a state of disrepair and neglect. The story takes place toward the end of the war between the Northern and Southern states. Family members are all lost, and friends have disappeared to fight in the raging war.

An unlikely couple stumble upon each other and begin a sultry and fiery love affair.

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• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Nov 14, 2023
• ISBN: 9798886548525

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The Mansion in Honey Island Swamp

Catalena Tortorici

Copyright © 2023 Catalena Tortorici

All rights reserved

First Edition

PAGE PUBLISHING

Conneaut Lake, PA

First originally published by Page Publishing 2023

This is a work of fiction. Unless otherwise indicated, all the names of characters, businesses, places, events and incidents in this book are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or deceased, or actual events is purely coincidental.

ISBN 979-8-88654-849-5 (pbk)

ISBN 979-8-88654-852-5 (digital)

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

I dedicate this book to all the Americans that came before me and sacrificed their lives for our country.

Chapter 1

Yankees in the Kitchen

Chapter 2

The Kiss

Chapter 3

Going to New Orleans

Chapter 4

Crossing Lake Pontchartrain

Chapter 5

A Special Gift for His Nurse

Chapter 6

Horse Racing in the City's Park

Chapter 7

Leaving the Only Home She Ever Knew

Chapter 8

The Yankee Encampment

Chapter 9

Returning to the War

Chapter 10

Rebels Banging on the Front Door

Chapter 11

Going on a Scouting Mission

Chapter 12

A Soldier Hanging on for Dear Life

Chapter 13

Melancholy and Loneliness

Chapter 14

A Fierce Growling Coyote

Chapter 15

A Sudden Freight

Chapter 16

Frog Legs out the Swamp for Dinner

Chapter 17

Selling Part of Her Plantation

Chapter 18

Gold for the Survival of the Confederacy

Chapter 19

We Will Always Be Friends

Chapter 20

Discovering a Hidden Treasure

Chapter 21

Working Hard, Digging Up Weeds

Chapter 22

The Wedding

Chapter 23

The French Quarter Honeymoon

Chapter 24

Their Arrival in Vicksburg Mississippi

About the Author

I dedicate this book to all the Americans that came before me and sacrificed their lives for our country.

Chapter 1

Yankees in the Kitchen

The conflict between the North and the South had been raging on for almost four years.

Colleen Adams McFadden was now a mourning widow with little food and hardly no funds left in the bank. She was the sole survivor of the Adams family.

The only one presently residing on the family's large plantation.

A tall slender woman, with reddish brown hair, surrounding her fair skin with green eyes.

Colleen plopped her exhausted body down in her favorite parlor chair. She began to think of her Irish parents. How upset they would be if they saw what had become of her and their beautiful home.

This was not the life she had been groomed for.

Sounds of music and laughter from all the parties she attended here crossed her mind as she drifted off.

No more fancy dresses with pearls and ribbons to wear. Most were sold off to pay the taxes to a sinking Confederate government.

It was late afternoon by now. The hours passed by like days. She awoke with wide eyes, uncertain of her surroundings.

A growling in her stomach represented more hunger pain.

Somehow, she had grown accustomed to in the last few years.

Colleen walked to the back porch and slipped her daddy's old boots on. She grabbed a basket and a dingy old net with a cypress handle.

The daily search for food was a never-ending battle of her own now that everyone left the plantation.

Sounds of the swamp become louder as her pace quickened.

Two turtles rested on an ancient stump, just sunning themselves. Dinner was scooped up without hesitation. Into the basket they went. Wild mushrooms were growing a few feet away against a downed tree. They will be good for the turtle soup, she thought.

Heading home with a bit of satisfaction on her face, she spotted some wild green onions.

Excellent, now her meal was considered a feast compared to nothing at all.

Colleen stopped at the rear of the house and started cranking the handle on the old pump for a bucket of cool water to wash her swamp gatherings.

Into the kitchen she went through the back door. She gasped with fright after seeing five Yankee soldiers walking into the room.

Colleen could not scream. Nothing came out. She was frozen in place, gripping her basket of swamp turtles.

The Yankee soldier furthest away removed his hat and said, It's all right. We were looking for some help. Our lieutenant has been shot in the arm. We were scouting the area before our division arrives in a couple of days. Is there a doctor around? he asked.

Finally, her lips began to move. No, she said cautiously. He left for the war over three years ago. He was killed on the battlefield helping wounded soldiers.

Their lieutenant appeared, holding his bloody arm, looking sheet white. He was dripping blood on her kitchen floor.

Come in, she said finally, sit down here, as she pointed to an empty chair.

Remove his coat and let me see what I can do for him. Three of the men backed away as another helped the lieutenant sit and remove his blood-soaked coat.

Colleen put her basket down on the floor off to the side of the brick stove.

She put some of the water in a teakettle for boiling. Colleen asked him if he wanted something to drink.

Lieutenant Charles Hunnsman. Glad to meet you, miss. Yes, I would, he replied.

She looked down at him with such kind eyes. He knew they came to the right place.

Hello, I'm Colleen Adams, No, I mean, Colleen McFadden.

One of the soldiers laughed. You don't even know your own name.

Of course, I do, she quipped. It's just my husband and I were only married for two months when he left for the war. He was killed shortly after in Manassas. Let me look at your arm now and see what I can do. She gently removed his red-stained shirt and tied a cloth above the wound. I will be right back with some instruments. A few minutes later, she returned with a black medical bag.

The teakettle whistled with steam that startled the soldiers.

She got a large bowl and poured some of the hot water in it. Colleen opened another cabinet and removed an old brown jug and poured some of its contents in a crystal glass. Here, drink this, Lieutenant Hunnsman, she said with her Southern drawl. You will need a little something to calm your nerves before I try to remove the ball out of your arm.

The black bag was on the table waiting for her. She walked over to the sink and washed her hands with rose-smelling soap. She then proceeded to wash the lieutenant's wound out with the soap.

Drink up. she said. This is going to hurt, and I don't want you moving all around when I go in to fish out that nasty little ball.

The lieutenant obeyed and finished the moonshine quickly. Wow, that is pretty powerful stuff, said the wounded soldier.

Colleen smiled. That, it is, Lieutenant.

One of the soldiers inquired about her ability to do this surgery. Where did you get your medical training from, lady?

Watching and assisting my husband. He was the town's doctor that I told you about. Lieutenant, what is your name? she asked.

Charles Hunnsman, he answered, slurring the words a little.

Colleen poured some more moonshine for him. Drink up.

He took a big gulp, and she reached for a pair of forceps. Gently she probed the wound and retrieved a mini ball and tiny splinters of bone.

A little moonshine was poured into the slit in his arm. Lieutenant Charles jumped a little but did not yell. She started to stitch him up carefully and wrapped his arm with a bandage.

The soldiers were amazed at the young woman's abilities and how she conducted herself under the circumstances.

You are all welcome to spend the night if you would like. There are enough bedrooms upstairs to accommodate all of you.

Lieutenant Hunnsman was very woozy and needed to rest. Take him upstairs and put him in the first room on the right. I'll be up in a bit to check on him.

The soldiers assisted their lieutenant to the top of the stairs and placed him in a beautiful oak bed with netting hanging from the four posts to keep the mosquitos out.

Colleen cleaned the instruments with boiling water and soap then proceeded to pour herself a glass of moonshine to settle her own nerves.

This was her first patient she treated on her own with this kind of injury.

The turtles were making a scratching noise, trying to escape the basket by the stone.

She started up the stairs to see how the lieutenant was holding up. One of the soldiers met her halfway and thanked her for helping his friend and commanding officer.

Colleen entered her bedroom to check on the patient who was lying quietly on her bed.

I hope you are able to get some sleep now and feel well enough in the morning to rejoin your division.

She placed a cool wet rag over his eyes and put two small pillows under his injured arm.

Down the stairs, she went back in her kitchen to make a roux for her turtle soup.

One of the soldiers came into the kitchen while she was chopping the mushrooms and onions.

What is it? Colleen asked the soldier.

Is Lieutenant Hunnsman all right? Does he need me?

No, said the soldier, he is sleeping. I just checked on him. I wanted to thank you for what you did for him. He is my best friend. We grew up together in Philadelphia.

You are welcome, she answered.

Colleen stirred the flour mixture until it turned brown. She added the mushroom and onions. Now for the turtle meat. She hated killing anything, but under the circumstances, she hadn't a choice.

The soup was on the fire now, simmering and filling the kitchen with a wonderful aroma, when she added some of her spices.

Time to check on her patient. Colleen crept up the stairs and entered her room. The lieutenant was moving a little and let out a moan. She removed the rag from his eyes and said, Hello, how are you feeling?

Terrible, he answered. My arm hurts unmerciful.

Oh no, she said, I am so sorry that it hurts you.

It's not your fault. He winced. It is the one who shot me.

Some of the old men from this area hunt the swamp every day to stay alive and feed the women and children who were left behind. They might have just mistaken you for an animal.

Colleen dipped the rag in her basin again and placed it on his eyes.

Shush, you need to stay calm now. She sat on the edge of the bed very carefully and placed her hand on his stomach and started to rub it with such a gentle motion. His tense body started to relax, and his breathing became slower and stable.

This went on for a few more minutes till he fell back asleep.

Colleen closed the door quietly, trying not to disturb him.

Two of the soldiers came out of their room. Is he all right? one asked.

Yes, she replied in a hushed tone. The three of them walked down the stairs, she to her kitchen, the soldiers out the front door.

Colleen went straight to her pot of turtle soup and stirred it some more.

Footsteps grew close to her when she turned around. There stood the soldiers with a canvas bag.

Here, lady, think you could use this to make us a home-cooked meal.

She smiled and looked into the bag. I'll certainly do my best. You go gather your friends and clean up by the well. Dinner will be ready in about an hour.

It has been a long time since anyone came to dinner here, she thought.

Colleen started to put the soup terrine on the dining room table and went to get the rest of the meal out of the kitchen. Biscuits, fried bacon, and a pot of grits!

Bowls and dishes were already on the long dining table. Five glasses were removed from the china cabinet.

Moonshine. Boys, you may each have a glass if you like.

Colleen put some soup in a bowl and a biscuit on a small plate with a spoon for the lieutenant.

Help yourself while I tend to Lieutenant Hunnsman, she said.

Aren't you going to eat? asked one of the soldiers.

Yes, when I get back. Save me some, Colleen answered.

Up the stairs carrying a small tray, she went quietly.

Colleen entered the dark room and placed the tray on the night table next to her bed.

She walked over to her dresser and lit the candles without stumbling.

The injured lieutenant lay there with open eyes and perspiration rolling down the side of his face.

How are you feeling? Are you in much pain? she asked. He didn't have to answer. His facial expression said it all.

Colleen retrieved two more pillows out of her hope chest at the end of the bed then placed them behind his back. She wiped his face with a cool cloth. I brought you some supper. I hope you like it.

No, I don't feel like eating anything, he snapped.

She took the spoon and bowl of turtle soup off the tray and sat on the bed with him and began feeding him. Now, see, that's not so bad. You need to eat to regain your strength. Lieutenant Hunnsman did not respond. She handed him a biscuit to go along with the soup. He took a bite on his own.

Colleen placed the empty bowl back on the tray. I have something to help you sleep. She opened her dresser drawer and removed a small silver flask. Here, drink this. It is absinthe. The lieutenant took a big swig and made a puckered face. You will sleep now, and that will help you recover.

Thank you, he said.

Colleen nodded and picked up the tray and left her new patient to rest.

The dining room table hasn't been used like this in a few years, she thought. She liked the company, and the meal turned out very tasty. Each soldier thanked her for the wonderful meal and her hospitality.

We haven't ate at a real table in a while, let alone slept in a bed with fine sheets, said one of the soldiers.

I'm glad you liked it. I haven't had any company in a long time in this house. Ever since the war started and then every week we would get a new list of the dead and wounded. Nobody visits much around here anymore. The soldiers just sat in silence.

Colleen finally stood up and began to clear the dishes off the table. One soldier popped up and started to help her. I could use a bucket of water to do these dishes if you don't mind.

No, Ms. Colleen, said another soldier and stood up and left out the back door.

Everything was cleaned and put back in place in the china cabinet.

The soldiers had retired to their rooms for the night.

Colleen brought up a fine white porcelain pitcher filled with cool water to her room.

The lieutenant was sleeping soundly when she crept in.

Her nightgown was behind the three-piece dressing screen sitting on a small stool.

She poured some cool water in the basin on a side table and began to wash her face and neck with a bar of her homemade rose petal soap.

The candles on the dresser provided just enough light for her to finish cleaning up. She walked behind the screen and slowly undressed. Colleen slipped her nightgown over her head and emerged. Lieutenant Hunnsman began to stir and let out a moan of his discomfort.

Over to the bed she went and removed one of the pillows and took the cloth off his eyes.

She went over to the basin and refreshed his cloth with the cool water.

Colleen sat on the bed again and started to massage his temples and worked his way down to his shoulders and chest.

The lieutenant opened his eyes and saw an angel of mercy by his side.

She pulled the rocking chair from the other side of the room and positioned it closer to the soldier's side. He closed his eyes again and fell into a calming sleep. The day had been quite eventful compared to most. She wondered how she was in her house with all these Yankees. What would everyone think of her helping the enemy? Somehow, her brain did not think that the lieutenant was her enemy. He was just a wounded young man that was in pain and needed help.

The breeze was flowing through the large windows that she opened earlier to keep the lieutenant comfortable.

Colleen felt a slight chill and decided to get her old crocheted shawl her mother made for her.

Slowly she began to rock herself to sleep. Visions of her family came to her as she fell asleep. It only made her feel so alone.

Today was different. She realized she didn't want to live the rest of her life without purpose and connection to the outside world or to another person.

The sun had risen, and the lieutenant began to stir around and tried to get out of bed. His huffing and moans woke her up immediately.

Lieutenant, what are you doing? she asked.

I need to use the outhouse, miss. I have laid in this bed for hours, he snapped.

Here, let me help you up. I will go get one of the soldiers to help you down the stairs.

Colleen slipped her robe on and left the room quickly. She knocked on the first door across the hall. A sleepy soldier appeared rubbing his weary eyes.

The lieutenant needs some help, she said. Come with me. Into her bedroom they walked and saw Lieutenant Hunnsman walking slowly toward them.

Take him downstairs. and I'll get dressed and join you soon.

Colleen grabbed a clean housedress out of her closet. Behind the screen she went and quickly removed her nightgown. She folded it neatly and placed it back on her stool. The lavender dress was over her head in seconds. She wiggled it down over her body and added stockings and shoes to finish the process. Her hair was combed and face was washed before heading down to the kitchen. The lieutenant and his friend leaned against the back porch. She could hear them talking through the opened kitchen door. His friend John kept telling him he wasn't ready to leave and ride a horse for ten or fifteen miles today. You look pretty rough, he said. Your arm isn't finished knitting yet. If you ride out, it may be your last, especially if it starts bleeding again.

Lieutenant Hunnsman did not respond just yet. A minute had passed, and he finally agreed. I know you are correct in your thinking, but we were sent on a mission, not a holiday.

We can go ahead and scout out the land and come back in a couple of days to pick you up. You will be better by then, he said.

I don't know if this woman wants me here in her house. She has done more than enough for us already.

Colleen overheard what the lieutenant said and stepped out onto her porch.

I am sorry to eavesdrop, but I could not help overhear your conversation, sir. Under the circumstances, I have to agree with your friend John. You really aren't in any shape to travel. Your arm is ever so fragile. It might be the only way to save it to just stay on a couple more days.

The lieutenant looked over at her and thanked her for all that she had done for him. Colleen replied, You are quite welcome, and told the soldiers to come inside in case someone would come by and see them.

His friend John helped the lieutenant back in the house.

Why don't you put him in the parlor for now? Sorry, I don't have any coffee to offer you, but it has been hard to come by this year.

Lieutenant Hunnsman turned to his friend and asked him to get his saddlebag out the barn. I have some coffee you surely can have. Ms. Colleen walked behind them and helped settle the lieutenant in her big chair. She placed a pillow under his arm and one behind his back.

The rest of the soldiers were heading down the steps by now.

Lieutenant Hunnsman gave them their orders and told them to get on their way and stay on the back roads.

Yes, sir, they answered in unison. Colleen walked out to the barn with them. The soldier to her right who helped the lieutenant earlier walked straight over to this beautiful gray stallion.

His bridle and saddle were resting on a post outside his stall with the saddlebag lying on top.

Here, miss, take this saddlebag with you. There are probably some things in there the lieutenant may want.

The soldiers saddled the remaining horses and were on their way within a few minutes' time.

Colleen walked into her parlor with the saddlebag and handed it to the lieutenant. He reached in and pulled out a tin filled with coffee. The wounded soldier handed her the coffee.

Thank you, Lieutenant Hunnsman.

My name is Charles, please call me by it.

Yes, Charles, I will make us a pot of coffee before I check your wound again.

A short time had passed when she appeared with a tray with two cups of coffee and a small glass of brandy.

Colleen handed Charles a cup with a saucers filled with hot delicious-smelling coffee. Sorry, I don't have any milk, but I do have some cane sugar. Would you like a spoonful?

Yes, I would, he replied, and she proceeded to fix it for him.

I like sugar in mine too. I also brought you a glass of brandy to help ease the pain. My husband took all the laudanum with him when he left for the war. I do have a lot of alcohol here. We had many huge parties throughout the year. I hid most of it and use a glass every now and then.

Charles began to ask her questions about plantation life and how many slaves had she owned.

"We had about thirty-five slaves. We never beat or chained any of them like you Yankees think. My daddy never believed in treating them poorly. Both my parents and I worked alongside of them. Cooking, cleaning, and working in the fields of the plantation.

My mother would buy material for them to make their clothes. She provided pots and dishes to them. Each family had a small house to live in. We called that section the slave quarters. No one ran off because they weren't treated horribly here. Besides, we lived next to the vast swamp, and they didn't particularly like the idea of running away through it. We inherited about half of them when we purchased the property, and the other half were born here. Tell me about you Charles. Are you married? Do you have children waiting for you?

Just my mother and a sister and brother left in our family. I guess I never found a woman to love me yet.

You are young. I'm sure you have plenty of time for that when you get back home. There will be many girls to choose from with the war taking most of the men out the population.

Charles shook his head in agreement. Do you plan to marry again?

"I don't know about that. You see, I knew my husband for years before I married him. He was much older than me, and I used to work for him.

"We would go to the houses around here and treat the sick and birth babies sometimes. I figured he just grew on me by us spending so much time together. He was a kind and gentle soul that treated me well. One afternoon after his last patient left his office, he fixed us both a glass of whiskey and asked me to marry him.

I said yes. That was three months before the war. Enough about me. How about I help you upstairs so you can rest while I tend to your horse?

Can you do that by yourself? he asked.

Colleen gave a little giggle. Yes, Lieutenant. No, I mean, Charles. I am capable. I love horses. We had many before the war. I helped birth just about all our foals.

You are a woman of many talents Colleen.

That, I am, Charles, and one of those talents is getting you better.

They both gave a little smile. After helping Charles to the bedroom and getting him situated, Colleen went out to her barn. There he was, a gorgeous gray stallion with his head looking out over the stall door at her.

Good morning, gray. She placed her hand out for him to smell. She started to fix his hair on his head and slowly started petting him. How about I brush you up and then take you out to a big pasture. You can run around a bit and graze. Sound good to you? His eyes were a little wide, but his ears were straight up paying attention to her every word.

She walked into the tack room and emerged with a comb and brush. The horse smelled each one, and she opened the door then placed her hand on his halter and guided him to the back wall. Good boy, she said, and hooked him to a rope.

She took her time grooming every inch of this magnificent stallion. You sure are a handsome fellow. Shame I don't have a mare around here. I would love to get a colt out of you for myself. Ready boy? Then she unhooked him and guided the horse down the shed row and out into that big pasture that was promised.

Colleen closed the gate and just watched him in awe. The gray stallion began to trot around, smelling the grass and exploring his new surroundings. Back to the house for a fresh bucket of water.

She returned to her back porch and traded her shoes for the old boots. It was time to head off to the swamp to search for food. Ducks were quacking, and the birds were chirping when she arrived in the ancient place.

Quietly she stepped into another world. Somewhere among the cypress trees was breakfast and maybe dinner too. Danger hung from the trees and curled themselves on the swamp floor in the form of snakes. Somehow, they just waited to take a bite out of her for their own breakfast. Colleen continued up to the water's edge and placed her basket and fishing pole and net against an old stump. She picked up a stick and scraped the soft earth and discovered two worms for her fishing pole. Now I have a chance, she thought, of coming home with something.

In the water with a small splash went her line and baited hook. Fishing was truly a game to her. The better at it you were, the more fish you ate.

Finally, she felt a tug and pulled back. Something was on line. It started to pull and make ripples in the water. Colleen was determined to go home with something to eat for her guest.

Her net was resting against the stump as she tussled with the fish. She grabbed the net and went closer to the water's edge. She scooped up a catfish. Not too shabby, she thought, and threw the fish in her basket.

Colleen gathered her things and began her way back. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a nest with four duck eggs inside.

How lucky she felt this day, no mama duck sitting or guarding the nest. Quickly she squatted down and gathered the four eggs and put them in her apron pockets.

Back to the house she went with a grin on her face. She reached the back porch and hung her pole and net on the wall.

She brought the basket into the kitchen and took a bowl out to place her precious eggs in.

It was time to check on the lieutenant. Up the stairs she went and entered her room. He was still sleeping when she approached the bed. He was drenched in sweat.

Colleen gently shook his shoulder. Charles, wake up. Come on, wake up. I have to get you cleaned up and try to break this fever. His eyes opened, just looking up at her. I need to get you in a cool bath downstairs. I want to try and break your fever, she repeated. Come on, sit up while I find you some clothes.

She went to her dresser and came away with a shirt, trousers, and underpants. Let's go, she commanded, and up and out they went.

Where are you taking me? he asked. We have a bathtub out back. A cool bath just might break your fever and make you feel better.

She seated Charles on the back steps while she put three pots of water on the stove to boil.

About thirty feet from the house was a small wooden shed that contained the bathtub. Colleen walked over to the well and pumped water for his bath. She poured it into the tub and needed many more to get it filled. The hot water was carried from the house to the shed so she could get a good mix of water for the lieutenant.

Charles, can you start over towards the bath? I forgot to get you a towel.

Colleen returned with two towels, soap, and a washcloth from the linen closet.

She guided him into the tiny shed and started to unbutton his shirt. All of this needs to be washed. She pointed to his clothes.

She started to unbutton his trousers. He placed his hand on hers. I can do this, he said. His trousers were pushed down, and he stepped out.

Colleen picked up the trousers and the bloody shirt and threw them over her arm. Off with the rest, Lieutenant. He lifted his leg, trying to take off his socks. She bent over to help him. This time, he did not resist her help. He looked at her, and she glanced back into his eyes.

Charles, don't be embarrassed. I have seen both men and women without their clothes. I won't make you feel badly. I am only here to help you get well. You should remember that.

His underpants came off, and he stepped into the tub. Colleen dipped the cloth into the water and got her soap off the small bench. She lathered it up and began washing his face and neck.

Lay back and dunk your head so I can wash your hair.

She scrubbed his hair top to back and sides. Charles had his eyes closed. This feels good. You were correct. This is very relaxing.

Colleen dipped a small pot into the water and poured it over his hair a couple of times until all the soap was gone.

His chest and arms were washed next. Stick your leg up here. She pointed to the side of the tub. Colleen continued washing his legs and feet. Now you get your man parts cleaned. I'll be back with some more hot water.

She returned from her kitchen with a pot of boiling water. I am going to pour it in slowly by your feet. You swish it around with your good arm.

Charles did as she asked and laid his head on the higher piece of the back of the tub.

Well, I will help you dry off when you are ready.

After a few minutes, slowly he rose out of the water, and she handed him a towel to dry off.

The lieutenant no longer resisted her. In fact, he steadied himself with his good arm on her shoulder. She proceeded to get his underpants and trousers on. His back was dried then his hair. The shirt was a bit tricky, but they managed.

Stay here, I forgot socks. He stayed in the small shed until she returned. Now for your boots. They both laughed a little while trying to perform this feat of magic. Into the house they strolled. Sit here, she said, pointing to the small kitchen chair by the stove. Up the stairs in her linen closet was a satchel of bandages. She found two small splints to set his arm. I have to remove your shirt again so I can fix up your arm.

Colleen unwrapped his injured arm. The spot where she removed the mini ball was black and blue and swollen. She placed his arm in hers and put the splints on each side and began to wrap the new bandage around them. Help me. Hold your finger here, she instructed. A small skinny piece of cloth was used to tie it in place.

Hungry, Lieutenant, I mean, Charles?

After the bath, I could eat something now, he replied.

Well, we were extremely lucky today. The swamp gave us a couple of duck eggs for breakfast. Come to think of it, ever since your arrival, I have been lucky gathering food out the swamp.

I think I have been pretty lucky since I arrived here, too, he said. Little smiles crept over both their faces.

Look, if anyone comes over to the house this week, we should have the same story.

Yes, I agree, said the lieutenant.

How about we say you are my distant cousin Charles from Kentucky?

Okay, why am I here?

Ah, you came to breed some mares for me with your stallion. When you got here all my mares were already confiscated by the rebel army. Does that sound all right to you? she asked.

Not bad, he said. That is a plausible explanation, except I never bred a horse before.

Well, I have. Just follow my lead and try not to talk. That Yankee accent when you speak so fast gives you away.

We can say I spent plenty of time in Philadelphia with my mother's family when I was a boy. I feel that will explain my accent sufficiently.

Now let me scramble us those eggs I found.

Charles watched her as she moved around the kitchen, getting a bowl and setting the cast-iron skillet on the fire.

How can I help you? asked the lieutenant.

No, you are my guest and patient, remember.

I am not helpless, you know.

Okay, Charles, go get our coffee cups so I can fill them. There is enough coffee left for us to enjoy another cup. One at a time, please. They were my mother's favorite.

Colleen put a tablespoon of lard in the fry pan and spread it around so her precious eggs would not stick.

She continued cracking and then beating the eggs. Finally, she poured them in the pan.

A pinch of salt and pepper were sprinkled on the eggs.

Charles returned with the cups and saucers and sugar bowl out of the parlor for her.

She turned and almost bumped into him. Oops, I need to reach for the plates now. Please, go sit down at the dining room table, and I will bring everything in a minute.

Charles nodded his head yes and turned toward the huge room.

Within a minute, the eggs were placed and sitting in front of the lieutenant. Coffee followed. She opened the silverware drawer in the huge china cabinet and took two forks out. Here you go, Charles. She handed him one. Colleen sat across from him at the long table. The lieutenant began to eat his eggs and closed his eyes and savored the long-awaited taste.

Thank you, the eggs are excellent. Even I hadn't had eggs in a couple of months.

Well, that makes two of us. She put her forkful of eggs in her mouth. A few moments passed when Colleen told Charles she loved having coffee in the morning. This surely has been a wonderful morning.

Yes, it has, said the lieutenant.

The two of them sat in silence throughout the rest of the meal. The house was quiet, but her mind was racing with strange thoughts of how she was starting to feel some sort of attraction for Charles. No, that can't be, she thought. He was a young man her age, so different from her late husband, and besides, he was a Yankee. None of her surviving relatives or neighbors would ever understand. Why would they? Fraternizing with the enemy and providing medical attention just weren't acceptable.

Charles slid his chair back away from the table and snapped her back from her daydreaming.

He picked up his plate and headed toward the kitchen.

You don't have to do that. I will take care of them. She followed with hers.

Want to go upstairs and take a nap before lunch. Charles grinned and repeated the word lunch.

Yes, I caught a decent-sized catfish when I went in the swamp. It won't last forever, you know. Might as well fill up while we have something to fill up with.

Well, I guess if you look at it that way, maybe later, said Charles. Would you mind if I sit on the back porch for a while? I like the smell of those magnolia flowers and the peacefulness. No guns, no cannon, none of the sounds of war.

Colleen looked at him. Of course, you can, but only for a short time. That arm needs to be resting, not hanging. Sit on the steps. I'll be right back with something for you.

Charles went out the kitchen, and she went upstairs to one of the other bedrooms. Colleen opened the closet in a guest bedroom and searched for a piece of material just the right size to make a sling for her patient's arm.

Colleen returned and saw Charles sitting on the steps she walked out and sat next to him. Look this way. She had a black piece of material with her. Carefully she picked up his injured arm and held it on his chest. Keep it up there until I get it tied up. She finished her new sling bandage. How does it feel? It's not too tight, is it, Charles?

Chapter 2

The Kiss

No, I think this is much better than just hanging like you said. They were so close now. She looked into his eyes and came forward to kiss his lips. Charles closed his eyes and kissed her back with such a passion. She knew now he felt it too.

When the kiss was over, she scooted back a little into her own place on the step.

I shouldn't have done that, she said. Why? asked the lieutenant. It felt right between us.

This can't happen. It's never going to work. We cannot have a relationship during this miserable war. Jesus, we are about as far apart as two people can be.

Why? he said. I know you hate this war. So do I. My duty is to defend the United States and to preserve the country, which I have done diligently. Why should I deny some kind of normal feelings I am having for you? I never met anyone like you. You are very kind and gentle to me. You did not have to do anything for this Yankee. You could have let me lose my arm, but you didn't.

Colleen didn't say a word. She just looked down, kind of puzzled.

What are we going to do? she finally asked.

What people have been doing for thousands of years, I suppose. Be with each other, answered Charles.

I still can't understand why I kissed you. I haven't been with a man in over three years.

Because you felt the attraction too. Don't deny it. It is in your eyes, and now I feel it from your heart. I can tell you feel compassion for the sick and the injured, but you feel something more for me than just another patient. Don't you have anything to say?

No, not now. I'm so confused. What have I done? Colleen stood up and walked a short distance from the house with her arms folded. Charles walked up behind her and placed his hand on her shoulder. She turned to face him.

What's wrong? Look, if you really don't want me, I'll leave you alone. I am not going to force you to do anything. I may be a Yankee, but I'm not a rapist.

She raised her voice. Oh my god, I wasn't thinking that. You have been a complete gentleman since you arrived. That has been the attraction.

Not my face? Not my body? he asked with a smirk.

Colleen managed a tiny smile. All right, it's all of that. I need some time to think. You need some more rest for your arm to heal.

I am starting to feel a lot better, answered Charles.

Colleen took his arm and turned him toward the house. Let me get you settled upstairs. I will check on your horse and look around for something to go with the catfish. Charles walked beside her all the way to the bedroom. He sat on the side of the bed, and she squatted on the floor under him to remove his boots.

Lay back and take a nap. I will be back in a bit. Would you like a cool cloth for your eyes?

Yes, that would be very helpful right about now.

Colleen closed the door and walked over to the back of the barn where she left the gray stallion.

Come here, gray, come see. She held her hand out and motioned with her long slender fingers to come to her. He looked directly at her. She gave a whistle, and he started toward her.

Good boy, she said to him. Yes, you are such a good boy and smart too. She opened the gate and took him by the halter to lead him to his stall.

Let's go in this one, at least it is clean. Colleen closed the door and walked back to his other stall for the water bucket.

Out the barn to the well she went and cranked a bucket with cool fresh water for the stallion. I will be back later, she told him.

What am I going to do? she thought. This is truly a predicament I certainly wasn't expecting to get myself in, no doubt.

She walked over to what used to be a huge food plot. The rows now were overgrown with tall weeds.

Colleen looked ahead and spotted a couple of ears of corn. She pulled them from the skinny stalk to go with the fish.

The house wasn't far, and the catfish needed to be cleaned and gutted.

She pulled the fish out the basket and placed it on a chopping board. The knife was stuck into the bottom of the belly, and she worked her way up to the gills.

Colleen pulled both sides apart, exposing the guts she needed to remove.

It was a female catfish with lots of eggs inside. I'll fry the roe up too, she thought. The insides were taken out and put in a jar for bait for tomorrow's swamp trip.

I always try to think ahead, but can't make my mind up about this situation. She used the knife one last time for removing the head and scraped the skin. Back into the kitchen to the sink to wash the fish off her knife and chopping board.

Colleen washed her hands with soap to remove the bloody fish smell off.

I know a hot soothing bath sounds awfully good right about now. I can lay back and relax. Maybe I can even come up with a solution to this Yankee problem.

The linen closet was upstairs along with fresh undergarments and a housedress.

Colleen crept into her room and opened the chest of drawers almost silently. She reached in and plucked out her camisole top and a pair of underpants with lace and ribbons on them. The closet was next on her agenda. A mint green housedress was taken out. Nothing fancy, just practical.

Colleen moved down the steps with ease, looking forward to the only tiny pleasure the war never took away from her.

Hot boiling water poured into her bathtub was a chore but one she appreciated in the end.

That's it, she thought as she poured a little cold water so she wouldn't scald herself.

Shoes off and stockings rolled down her long legs. Next came the dress. She was really looking forward to just sitting in the hot water. The camisole and underpants were removed last. Into the tub she went. Oh, this feels so good. She slid under the hot water. Her mind began to focus on the kiss she gave the lieutenant. Colleen closed her eyes and placed her head on the back of the tub.

On one hand, if I do have an affair with Charles, he will be gone in a few days. My hopes and dreams of something lasting will turn out just like before, lost to this damn war. Now if I don't have a romantic encounter with him, I may wonder for the rest of my life what if. Time to wash my body and hair.

The water was getting somewhat colder now. She dunked her head under the water then reached for the soap. She had her eyes closed as she lathered up the top of her head, and suddenly she felt his hand weaving his fingers through hers, gathering up more hair with the soap. I thought you could use some help, said Charles. After all, you did help me this morning. I felt it was the only thing a gentleman could do to reciprocate the kindness.

She laughed. You do make me feel all is well with the world instead of living another day in purgatory.

You have been so concerned about me. You haven't taken a minute for yourself, said the lieutenant.

"I'm doing good under the threat of all this destruction. You gave me some purpose instead of feeling sorry for myself. My parents and I were extremely close. Losing them and my husband in such a short period of time hasn't helped me.

I do not have any family to help me get through this war anymore. Then you came along. You took me into another place. My hair must be clean by now, she said with a giggle.

Oh, yes. He laughed. I didn't realize how long I've been washing it.

It really felt good, thank you very much, said Colleen. She sunk down further under the water and wiggled her fingers in her hair, releasing the soap.

The lieutenant stood to the side of the tub, holding out her towel. Need some help drying off? he said with a slight grin. Colleen rose slowly and reached her hand out for the towel. She put it over her hair and rubbed vigorously, then she moved it to her face and neck and front of her body. Out the tub she stood then handed Charles the towel.

Since you informed me this morning you weren't helpless, how about catching my back for me. He took the towel from her and rubbed her back ever so gently. He moved lower till he reached her thighs. Well, well, Lieutenant, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you have done this before.

No, but I am a fast learner. I got my lessons from a Southern belle this morning. She is a very good teacher.

Charles handed her the towel back, and Colleen finished drying the droplets of water from her long slender legs and feet.

Colleen reached for her underpants, and Charles protested. Do you have to put everything back on?

No, silly, I can run around naked and feed all the mosquitos and the rest of the swamp bugs. They will surely call all their family and friends for a feast. He let out a laugh, and so did she.

Colleen continued putting her clean clothes on until she was ready to leave the tiny shed.

I need to wash these clothes, she said as she bent over and gathered everything off the wooden floor. Out the door they went.

How's my horse doing? Charles asked.

He's fine. Would you like to see him? I put him out in a pasture behind the barn this morning so he could graze and fill his belly up. Sorry, I don't have any oats or cracked corn to feed him. Everything went sour after all my horses were taken away. I eventually threw it all out.

They walked closer to the house where she dropped the clothes off on the back porch.

Come with me. We will go to the barn, and you can see him. By the way what is his name?

I call him Edward, Ed mostly. When I got him, I was reading a book about a Revolutionary War hero named Edward Cunningham. He taught soldiers how to fight with bayonets when they exhausted their ammunition. They reached the barn, and as usual, Edward had his head out of the stall door, looking down the shed row at them.

Colleen and Charles both reached for his face at the same time. The horse raised his head, a little spooked. You are okay, fella, Charles said. The stallion relaxed and smelled Charles's hand. This is Ms. Colleen, the lady who has taken care of you for me.

Oh, we met, she said in a low sweet voice. Can I have a kiss? She proceeded to pet his face and give him baby kisses on the side of his mouth.

I think he likes you, Colleen.

Think so? she said.

I know so. He hasn't taken his eyes off of you since we arrived.

The feeling is mutual, I can assure you. I told him earlier how I wished I had a mare here to bred to him. I would just love to have a colt out of him.

Colleen was scratching his neck now and placing her head on him, kissing him so sweetly.

That's enough. Save some for me, Charles said with a chuckle.

He's only a horse Charles. He looks like he understands what you are saying to him.

Of course, he does, I always talked to my horses. They are very intelligent and can tell what kind of person you are by the way you handle them."

Charles and Colleen walked out of the barn together. How about I take you to my special place on the plantation? We can sit and chat a bit. Do you feel up for a walk, or would you rather go lay down again?

No, I think I am up to it. Besides, I need to try and regain my strength. Colleen took Charles's arm and intertwined hers with his. He didn't seem to mind. He actually stood taller. They walked a ways from the back of the huge barn. They passed by a few pastures down a worn-out path that had been taken many times by horses and people.

Colleen broke the comfortable silence. Not much further, she announced.

Oh, I don't mind, replied the lieutenant. I'm good, the breeze is very relaxing.

There it was, a large pond with an old wooden bench under a giant oak tree. Its branches were draped like an umbrella casting a protection from the sun's rays.

This is one of my favorite places. The white roses I planted with my mother when I was a child.

They sat together on the bench overlooking the pond.

How many acres is this plantation? he asked. The deed has it at about nine hundred acres. Three hundred usable acres of land and another six hundred acres of swamp. It would take days to locate the property markers. Tell me more about your life in Philadelphia.

Everything is fast-paced, people everywhere. A very political place. The newspapers always stirring things up. So many people walking and riding buggies. It's getting difficult to cross the street.

Are the people nice up there? she asked.

Well, it's hard to tell. No one really knows who you are. They don't greet each other like the people in the South. I have noticed that when we travel through some of the towns.

Colleen leaned her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. She felt herself drifting off. No tension, no pressure, just a cool breeze with a touch of gentle sunshine peeking between the branches.

Charles pushed over a little and softly placed Colleen's head in his lap. She curled up next to him like they knew each other for years.

About an hour passed by when her green eyes popped open. Welcome back, said Charles.

Colleen sat up quickly. How long was I sleeping?

I don't know, maybe an hour or so.

Why didn't you wake me?

Why? Where were you going?

Nowhere, it's just I'm supposed to take care of you, not the other way around.

It is all right. You deserved a nap. You have taken excellent care of me and my horse.

Ready to get back to the house now.

Sure, my arm is throbbing a little.

Colleen led the way back to the house. Come with me, I will get you something for the pain. They entered through the front door, and she pointed him in the direction of the parlor.

Charles sat in the overstuffed chair. Let me take the sling off for a while so you can straighten your arm out. She took the sling off and placed a pillow under his arm. A tall liquor cabinet was positioned on the opposite side of the room. Colleen walked over, got a crystal glass, and filled it with moonshine. She decided to have one, too, and reached for another glass. Here you go. She handed him the moonshine.

Is this that stuff that gets you feeling so good so fast?

Yep, it is. Colleen took the first sip. Her face contorted a little but quickly changed to a smile.

Drink up, it's the only pain reliever I have to give you. The lieutenant took a gulp.

Whoa, that is so powerful. It burns your throat going down. You are right, it does relieve pain, probably your insides too. She laughed and shook her head at him. It's this or nothing at all. I'm not complaining. I'd much rather this over the alternative.

I thought so.

Colleen turned and started toward the kitchen.

Where are you going? he asked.

Fish time. I must prepare it before it goes bad. Finish your moonshine. I'll be in the kitchen.

Colleen shucked the two ears of corn and placed them in a pot. She went outside to the well and cranked out a bucket of water for the corn to be boiled in. Two logs were put into the stove. She stoked the fire, and it began to catch. I need some onions, she thought. I know where an onion patch used to be in the food plot. Out the kitchen door she went. When she reached the area, the weeds were growing everywhere, almost four feet tall. I wonder where they could be. She started searching all along the bottom of the rows. A few feet further and she spotted some green carrot tops. She bent over and gave a few tugs. Out came four carrots.

Colleen walked around a few more minutes and saw what was left of the onion patch.

Back to the house to check on the corn and finish fixing her fish.

Once inside the kitchen, the boiling water caught her attention. She stuck a fork in the corn to check for tenderness. Out came the corn onto a plate. The carrots were rinsed off and skinned and put in the water to boil. Colleen sprinkled some Cajun spice on the fish, and it was ready for frying.

The corn was cut off the cob, and the onions were chopped in tiny pieces. A small amount of lard was put in a fry pan where she added the onions and corn. Colleen checked on the carrots and fished them out of the boiling water. Charles walked into the kitchen. Need some help? he asked. Thank you, but I think this is a one-woman job.

Is that carrots? Where did you get them?

I was trying to find onions when I came across them.

It was time to turn over the fish and stir the vegetables.

Charles walked up a little closer and smelled the fish sizzling with those Cajun spices.

What is that unbelievable aroma?

Southern secrets. She turned to him and said, If it tastes as good as it smells, I will let you keep those secrets if you just feed me some.

Sure enough, I can do that for you.

Charles stood very close behind her. She could feel his breath on her ear and neck. He placed his hand on her shoulder and turned her toward him. He bent down a little and kissed her gently. Colleen didn't resist. She reached up and touched his face tenderly.

Okay, Yankee, don't you let me burn my fish, she said with a smile, then he stepped back a little.

No, ma'am, I would not let that happen.

Colleen grabbed a rag and wrapped it around the skillet handle and removed it from the fire. Charles, would you get me two plates please.

Absolutely, he said and walked into the dining room and retrieved the plates for her.

She divided the food and filled both plates. How about we eat on the front porch for a change?

Sounds good to me, answered the lieutenant. They each took a plate and started toward the front door.

Colleen stopped and got silverware and two napkins for them to eat their dinner. She placed her plate on a table between two chairs. Sit there. She pointed to a chair across from hers. I'll get us something to drink, said Colleen.

Charles waited for her to return before beginning.

More moonshine? he asked.

Yes, I don't want you feeling pain while we are eating, she answered.

They both took a forkful of their fish dinner.

"This is really good. A different taste than I'm used to, but I like the spice you