Chapter 7
Richmond
Already my eleventh birthday has arrived and Papa gave me the best gift of all: my first real adventure. For the first time in my life, I was visiting somewhere far away from home.
Fancy mirrors, pretty decorations, and artwork kept me partly occupied while Papa was out on business. The window drew me to it, so much activity on the street captured my attention. I abandoned the book I had bought, the words could not compete with the bustle beyond the window.
Below me, on the street, men in fine suits darted to and fro, the bank drew many of them through its doors. I pressed my cheek against the glass, trying to get a better view. Being trapped in this room was excruciating. How I wished Papa would hurry.
Oh, my prayers were answered. There he was, sauntering down th
