The Lion of the South by Jessica James

Author:Jessica James
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: civil war fiction, civil war novel, victorian era, Virginia, civil war love story, historical romance, historical fiction, confederacy, war between the states, spy, espionage, mystery, intrigue, war, clean romance
Publisher: Jessica James
Published: 2018-04-12T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 27

“OH, THAT WAS FUN, BUT I’m so glad it's over.” Sallie sat in the carriage fanning herself, while Julia stared sullenly out the window. “I can’t wait to change into something more elegant and dance the entire night away. Can you?”

Julia did not answer. Landon had chosen to ride on the box with the driver again, leaving the two girls alone. She wished she could share Sallie's childlike enthusiasm, but a cloak of despair hung over her. Rolling hills, beautiful homes, and some of the best horseflesh in the country could be seen in every direction. Yet all she saw before her was her brother's contagious smile and his warm, gentle eyes.

“Why are you so quiet?” Sallie inclined toward her when she did not answer immediately and enthusiastically. “Didn't you enjoy seeing everyone again?”

“Of course.” Julia forced a smile. “I’m just tired.”

“Tired? The fun has not yet begun!” Sallie sounded aghast. “Anyway, Mayor Chanceford has put rooms aside so that we may rest and get dressed before the festivities. You will have time to take a short nap if you wish.”

Julia wanted the night to be over, but she could not confide that to Sallie. She put a smile on her face so her friend would not see her distress. “I'm sure I will feel better after a short respite from the heat and excitement.”

“Of course, you will.” Sallie's attention turned to the window. “Oh, look. We have arrived.”

Julia gazed out and saw carriages and horses everywhere, as well as dozens of well-dressed groomsmen hurrying to assist those waiting along the large, circular drive. Most of the horses would be unhitched and stabled since the majority of the revelers would be spending the entire night.

There would obviously be plenty of room. The mansion, which stood upon the brow of a sloping hill, was magnificent. Massive oak trees, planted generations earlier, graced each side of the long drive. As they pulled closer, Julia spotted a large table filled with punchbowls and food on the veranda—a welcoming sight to the weary travelers disgorging from every means of conveyance imaginable.

William Chanceford II—the mayor himself—stood on the front steps, waving his arms and welcoming each attendee, while his wife moved about from one group to another, spending time with each as if they were intimate friends. The mayor was a prime example of an old Virginia gentleman: kind, generous, and full of hospitality and warmth. He was a notable figure, who had been born into a family of good social position, and held that position still.

Everyone knew that this gala would be one worth attending. The region had practically been in mourning for a year, and this would perhaps be the only bright spot for another year to come. Mirth and laughter would be as abundant as the food-lavished tables. Everybody who was anybody had contrived to be in attendance—to forget the war and to enjoy the festivities.

Landon helped both women out of the carriage and escorted them up the steps, where the mayor greeted them enthusiastically.

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