Robert was taken by surprise with Suzanna's answer. Hre hadn't expected an answer at all much less a firm “yes”.  He was nearly speechless. Tears ran freely down his cheeks. When at last he had gained his composure, he turned to face her and cleared his throat, choking out his words through the emotions that filled his heart.” Everything I have is yours my dear sweet Suzanna, this battered body of mine included. I hope someday I will be able to show you just how much I love you.” Robert felt lighter on his feet as she spoke. Suzanna's words lifted his spirits more than if he had suddenly regained use of that withered left arm. He had felt his life over as he lay in the mud behind the house, nearly drowning in his own blood, his mind on fire with infection.  But Suzanna had given it all back to him.Everything, his health, his honor, and more than anything his hope. For the first time he dared to think that he would have a happy home, loving wife and the hope of children.<br/><br/>“When shall the wedding be my dear? He asked, his smile spreading from ear to ear. He held her to him , unwilling to let his eyes leave hers. This was the best day of his life.<br/><br/>Their moment of bliss was shattered by the sounds of gunfire at the tree line and a miniball whistled past his ear breakking the kitchen window. Robert pulled Suzanna inside the house and took her in the bedroon and hid her behind the bed. He stationed him self at the kitchen door and looked out to see what might be happening.