Mom had finished unpacking the things in the attic. I didn't see why we had to move. She claimed it recreates history, moving into the house of our ancestor, Sarah Moore. I don't see what was good about her, even though Mom named me after her. After all, she was a loyalist. I might as well look around.
I opened a box in the corner. Dresses, a few scarves, coats, and mittens, some army uniform, a pair of shoes. Wait... Why did the box look bigger than the inside? I fumbled around the bottom of the chest, until I found a string. I pulled and a compartment opened up. This was interesting. A gold locket, a few sketches, and a small case of letters.
I unfolded the first letter.
Dear James,
My heart longs for you. Father is quite happy you are gone, and is trying to marry me off to wealthy merchants. I refuse, of course. The thought of marrying someone besides you makes me shudder. When will you return home? Tell me, and I will count the days. I do not wear the locket you've given me. Fear not! I would never discard it. I simply need to hide it. Father would burn it and make me watch the locket melt if he were to see it. Are you well? Are you warm with shelter? I will send some knitted clothing in my next letter. Please cast off this notion of fighting! I do not want you captured or worse!
Your love,
Sarah Moore
That explains the locket. Poor Sarah! Now I know why Mom gets all lovey-dovey when I ask about her. I read the reply on the back.
Dear Sarah,
I abhor the thought of your father trying to marry you off. I am grieving at you not wearing the one token of our love, but I understand the circumstances. It is better than you not having the locket at all. I do not want you to worry. I am well, unlike others. Many thanks to you for some of your knitting. It will give me something to remember you by. I have explained this to you time and time again. I cannot leave the army. It is my duty to serve and protect America. I promise you I will not die or be captured.
-James Benjamin Brown
"Sarah! Come down! Dinner's ready!" I quickly stuffed the things inside the chest and ran downstairs. The tale of Sarah and James would have to wait.