Harper's Round Table, September 15, 1896

A solemn yet hopeful tale set in the years after the Civil War follows young George Washington, newly named heir to a sprawling estate shrouded in loss. The death of his infant sister Mildred has left his parents in fragile grief, and the family’s future hangs on George’s ability to shoulder responsibility while navigating the lingering sorrow that clings to the house.

Against this backdrop, George finds an unexpected ally in his fourteen‑year‑old sister‑in‑spirit, Betty, whose quiet strength and gentle wisdom begin to shape his world. Their evenings by the library fire are filled with earnest discussions about duty, kindness, and the prospect of reuniting with loved ones for the coming Christmas. As they learn to balance youthful optimism with the weight of their heritage, their bond offers a tender glimpse of hope amid hardship.