Free The Cogan Legend by R. E. Miller Page B

their shopping.  Ann turned to him, “Let’s walk over and see what all the excitement is about.”
    Lewey agreed, and they changed direction.  As they approached the building men went out of their way tipping their hats and saying hello.  
    Upon entering the building, Lewey’s interest perked up.  “Wow!  I can’t believe all the things I see for sale here.  Even the docks don’t offer this variety.  Wait until I tell Charles about this place.”
    â€œLook, Ann, over there is anything a woman could want; hats, coats, and even dresses.  We’ll have to look at them,” Rachel said as she tugged at Ann’s sleeve.
    â€œI suspect they’re out dated.”  Ann said.
    In the middle of the building, two huge fireplaces burned six to eight foot logs that radiated heat and kept the building warm.  “In all my years I have never seen anything like this,” Lewey said.   
    Ann saw a man in uniform standing at the gun and knife stand.  She nudged Rachel and whispered, “Look at that man in uniform; he has got to be the best looking man I’ve seen on this trip.  I’m sure he’s an officer.”
    Ann couldn’t keep her eyes off of the soldier.  Feeling her gaze, he turned and his eyes locked with hers.  Ann caught her breath as she felt a shiver start in her stomach and work its way up to catch in her throat.  The soldier could not take his eyes off of her.  She was the most beautiful young lady he’d ever seen with dark hair that flowed over her shoulders.  He appeared to lose interest in what he was doing and moved gracefully toward them.  As he approached, he saw her flawless complexion and stunning blue eyes. The officer was tall and muscular with brown hair flowing from underneath his hat and a smile that dazzled.  With his eyes fixed on Ann, he took off his hat, bowed and announced, “Lieutenant Phillip Matter at your service.”  
    Lewey was surprised by the soldier’s boldness, so he stepped in front of the girls.  Nodding and introducing himself first, “I’m Lewey Hess.”  Pointing first to Ann, “This is Miss Ann Fairchild, and this is Miss Rachel Miller.  I’m their escort.”
    The catch in her throat dissolved, and she politely nodded and said, “How do you do.”
    Rachel just nodded.
    â€œMay I have the pleasure of escorting everyone through the market?”
    Ann looked at Lewey who nodded yes.
    â€œWhat brings two such beautiful young ladies to Sunbury?”  Lieutenant Matter asked.
    â€œCuriosity more than anything,” Ann responded.
    â€œWe’ve never seen anything like this place, not even in Philadelphia,” Rachel chimed in.  “What’s it called?”
    â€œPeople around here refer to it as the Market House and come from all over the area every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday to buy and barter goods.  It’s a big thing around here,” the Lieutenant informed them.
    â€œAre you stationed at the fort,” Ann questioned.
    â€œYes, I am.  I’m second in command,” he responded.  “So, you’re from Philadelphia?” he inquired as he glanced at Lewey.
    â€œYes, we are indeed,” Lewey quickly replied.
    They walked through the Market House talking and laughing all the while Phillip and Ann could not stop trading glances.  The Lieutenant was quite an entertainer, and he knew most of the merchants.  They stopped at a baked goods stand, “May I interest you in one of these sweets?  I can’t resist; I stop here every Saturday.”
    â€œI’m certainly interested,” Lewey joked.
    The afternoon went quickly as the Lieutenant entertained them stopping at most of the stands.  At the end of the tour the officer asked, “Would you join me for dinner tonight? Perhaps afterward I could escort the ladies to a dance, with your