Blessed Sinner by Rowe Tracy

Author:Rowe, Tracy
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2022-06-06T00:00:00+00:00

With Cairo but a memory, the regiment moved on to their next posting. Palestine seemed just another variation of the same to Thomas, its withering heat just one more irritant. He sat on his cot, Susan’s discarded letter by his side atop yet another troubling note from his father. He watched as Henry quietly read his post from his sister and wondered how Elizabeth fared.

Henry’s studied expression exploded into a joyous hoot. “I have another son!” he shouted and waved Elizabeth’s letter in the air.

“Bravo, Henry!” Thomas extended his hand, but hesitated as his friend continued reading, his face darkening. “Is something wrong?” he asked worriedly.

“Elizabeth says that Adelaide has had a difficult time of it.” He paced as he scanned the letter before him. “They’re worried. She has not regained her strength. I must return home. If anything happens to her…”

“Yes, you must take furlough and no delay.”

“You’re not coming?”

Thomas’ eyes scanned the desert. He had no real desire to stay, but he couldn’t go back to Canterwell. His father’s wasted state had broken his heart, and their last goodbye cut him deeply. He rarely heard from Charles now, and when he did his letters were confused and jumbled, filled with references to his mother and school. How the missives even found their way to his part of the world could only be explained by the accompanying letters from Susan. He glanced at her most recent correspondence, her message the usual, unhappy report.

“No, Henry, I think not. Go to your beautiful wife. She has need of you.”

Henry’s eyes fell on Susan’s letter. He knew what it said, what they always said. He waited patiently for the truth. “You’ve never been good at lies, Thomas.”

Thomas sighed. “I just …”

“Your father?”

“I cannot bear it, Henry.”

“I understand. I shall give all at home your warmest regards.” He stood and went to find the commander and make arrangements to leave.

“Henry?” Thomas called. “Look in on him for me? The old man. See that all is well?”

“To be sure, I will,” Henry promised him and left the tent.

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