An Unlikely Union. Shannon Farrington

pocket alongside Dr. Mackay’s cup. She leaned closer to take a quick peek at Edward, but could tell there was no change.

      As she straightened up, Julia set her bonnet on Emily’s head and quickly tied a pretty bow.

      “Thank you,” Emily said, “but I can’t promise I’ll be able to return it in any condition for you to wear again.”

      Her friend waved her off. “It is a small price to pay for those caring for our men.”

      As they walked toward the door, Emily asked about Sally.

      “She took the news as well as could be expected,” Julia said.

      “Poor thing.”

      “She and her father have gone to the battlefield to look for themselves.”

      Oh dear, Emily thought. So the Hastings family has gone to search for Stephen’s body, to bring him home for a proper burial. “If you hear from her, will you let me know?”

      “Of course.”

      Only then, as Emily gave a quick glance around the room, did she notice another soldier now occupied Billy’s bed. Her heart immediately squeezed, for she knew what must have happened.

      “He died during the night,” Julia said, guessing what she was thinking. “Jeremiah said the Scottish doctor took him to surgery, but the poor man didn’t survive the operation.”

      Though civility compelled at least a moment of pause, an acknowledgment of a life that had passed, Emily knew there was not time. Dr. Mackay needed his supplies. Outside was a dock full of soldiers who could still be saved.