Chapter 28

“Robert, I must leave for a time. I will be back. While I am gone, place the newly cut staves in the kiln for drying. Thomas and Aaron can attend to the assembly. Cut more if you feel you can. I…I…I…will be back soon.” Nathaniel stammered. He could feel his anxiety rising as he got to his feet.

“Mr. Morgan. I am sorry. I did not mean to make trouble for you.” The boy stood.

“It will pass,” Nathaniel replied. He desperately hoped it was true.

Nathaniel went to his room, got his cloak, informed Mr. Worthing that something had come up that needed his attention, and left the cooperage, heading for Jonathan and the school.

* * * *

Encouraged by his visit with Nathaniel and what had transpired, Jonathan imagined he was teaching better. This was because he felt he had more hope for the future than he had had the previous few days. He knew it would be a hard road to tread, but the end goal was worth almost anything to him.