Twenty-one days after the first snow, Murdock called for a meeting in the longhouse. He, Mei Lee, and their children had walked the one hundred yards to the longhouse and entered. Murdock was carrying a bunch of hides and placed them close to the huge hearth in the center of the building.
As each member came to the hearth and found a place on the log benches, they were all murmuring expectantly.
“I called you all together for some announcements and for some unfinished business,” Murdock said loudly. “First of all, are there any pregnancies to announce?” Murdock’s question wasn’t directed to anyone in particular. It was clear that anyone could answer.
Declan cleared his throat a few times: “Emily and I are excited to report that we are expecting.”
A loud cheer went up from everyone.
“M
