“Sheriff,” she said quietly. Sheriff Anderson paused, but kept his gaze away. “Where’s Maple? Won’t nothin’ happen to her, will it?”
Sheriff Anderson sighed. “Your horse’ll be kept here over the winter. Once the snow thaws, she’ll more’n likely be repossessed by the government. Troops could always use more stallions.”
Violet’s heart wretched. “Oh no, Sheriff, no. Maple’s seen enough blood and suffering. If she’s gotta go somewhere, can’t you send her back home?” At first, Sheriff Anderson didn’t answer, so Violet took his arm with her chained hands, desperately. “Please, Sheriff. Please won’t you send her home to Mama? At least that way some part of me can…” Her words trailed off. Sheriff Anderson finally glanced Violet’s way. There was pain in his expression, one which cracked by the se
