Chapter 19

Jonathan gently shook his bedmate. “Wake up, Nathaniel. It is Sabbath morning. We will be late for service.”

Nathaniel stretched and opened his eyes. He pulled Jonathan down on top of him. “We could hold our own services here.” He kissed him.

“As much as I would like that, we can’t be missing from service. If we are both absent it will make Samuel, if none other, suspicious. Come, let us get dressed.”

The men reluctantly rose. Jonathan went outside and filled the basin with water for washing. Bringing it back in, they cleaned themselves, dressed and ate from the apple barrel and shared some dry bread for breakfast.

As they were about to leave, Jonathan said, “Rebecca suggested that I invite you to the wedding as my witness. I would be honored if you would.”

Nathaniel took him in his arms. He held him close.

“I am honored that you have asked me. But, I cannot do that. It will be too hard for me to give you up as it is…let alone attest to my being your witness.”