The DespairThe Eldest, dead?
I began weeping, my vision a sheet of tears. I sobbed, all the weight of all the dead in my life washing over me, pushing me back, pushing me under. I wavered, stumbled, and my arm was caught firm.
Sawbuck’s voice was gentle. “I’m sorry, Mrs. Spadros. I’ll take you home now.”
* * *
On the trip back to Spadros Manor, I sat stunned, empty. Even Ma had turned against me.
But when I thought more about it, I knew she was right. I’d chosen to scrape in the dust on the ground beside a mountain of gold, all the while moaning of misfortune. I’d failed all those who’d hoped my marriage to Tony would result in help for the Pot.
No wonder there were those who in despair turned to the Red Dog Gang! The poisonous words promising status and glory would take root in such
