Robert saw her blush as she touched his arm and paused. "Suzanna, would you really have a broken body like mine for a husband?" he took her hand and walked her out on to the porch and sat with her on the swing. "The beans and the kitchen can wait. I've never run across someone like you. Your lovely and kind and generous in a world that is ugly and mean and steals what it wants. I couldn't ask for more than you. He looked off toward the barn where the soldier were milling around talking something over. "Take those fellers there... you changed them forever.  True, my colt 45 may have motivated them, but without the promise of your kindness, they'd have shot me. Besides without you nursing my back to health, I'd be dead now.  You could have just let the animals drag me away." He lifted her hand to his lips. Someday, Suzanna, I hope that I'll be worthy to put a new ring on this finger. No offense to your husband. I'm sure he was a fine man, but he can't be much help to you now.<br/><br/>He gently squeezed he hand then released it and and stood.  "I think I'll see what those boys is up to. he released her hand and walked out to the barn.  "Its a fine morning. You boys look as if your packed to go."  "Yessuh. We better get back before they come looking for us. We thank you and the Missus for your hospitality. She is a fine woman" the Sargent said. "The finest" Robert answered. "I'd best get you your weapons then He said, but if you can spare it I'd like to keep a pistol. Its a might easier to handle than the shot gun with my arm."  "That's the least we can do suh" the Sargent said smiling.  Robert followed them back up to the house ad while they said goodbye , he retrieve their weapons from his room.<br/><br/>When they got to the porch each man took time to bow and thank Suzanna for her kindness and the fine food she prepared.  The Sargent also promised that so far as it was in his power that his platoon would see to it the little farm wasn't molested.  Robert knew that it was unlikely they could help, but it made Suzanna feel good and he did nothing to discourage the feeling. he wrapped an arm around her as they watched the soldiers ride off and quiet returned to the farm for a time.