Free THE CRY FOR FREEDOM (Winds of Betrayal) by Jerri Hines Page A

in obtaining it and then only if they can prove what it is designed for,” John conceded. “I have many questions about the device itself. It seems to be cumbersome for their intentions, but I do believe I can get it to perform its intended purpose.”
    “What would that be, Father?” Jonathan asked. “I looked over the sketches and couldn’t make out its function.”
    John rolled out the sketches. “It is meant to write undetectable messages. Vital information could flow freely back in forth without the threat of being caught. See how if it enters at this end when pulled through it reveals a message. The trouble with all is setting it for the code, but if I can decipher it, it would be extremely valuable. Essential if the violence escalates, which I have no doubt it will. And we all realize what happens when a spy is caught. Don’t we?”
    “We all know, Father, and are more than willing to take the chance, for the stakes are high,” William said in earnest. “Don’t worry about us. We know.”
    Jonathan glanced over at his father and brother. Pride surged through him. His father looked back at him.  “Times, I’m afraid, are going to become much worse. Dunmore’s explanation won’t hold. Most will find his reason unsatisfactory.”
    “Well, Father, he couldn’t come up with anything better than he only wanted to keep the powder out of an intended insurrection of slaves?” Jonathan complained. “Everyone knows he took control of the gunpowder for only one reason. To ensure his power.”
    “Henry has already made ready with his militiamen outside of Williamsburg and demanded the return of the powder,” John said. “The time has come. There will be no turning back.”
    “Tell us what you want of us,” Jonathan said emphatically.
    “You, my son, are ready to take your commission with the Continental Army now that it has formed. Congress has appointed our friend, Colonel Washington Commander of the army. You will have your hands full,” John poured a glass of port for himself and his boys. He handed it over to each. “We have a lot of planning to do. William will help me here. If you can take the women to Nathanial’s tomorrow, Jonathan, settle them there until you ready to leave.”
    * * * *
    Hannah stared out the front window. She turned and smiled at her father when he entered the drawing room.
    “Are you packed?” John Corbett asked his youngest.
    “Yes, I believe I am. It’s not that far away,” she began.
    He shook his head. “I would prefer you stay there until we feel it's safe. For once, my dear darling daughter, take heed to my words. It isn’t a game, now.”
    “Don’t worry Father. I will take care of all,” she assured him. “We’ll be fine.”
    “I do worry,” he answered her. He leaned over and kissed her cheek. He hated to see her so sad.
    She hugged him tightly.
    “I’ll walk you out to the carriage. Jonathan said you were riding out.”
    “If that’s fine with you,” she looked into her father’s eyes. “I much prefer not to be idle. I would play upon Mother’s nerves otherwise. Lydia is to stay with her parents I take it?”
    “It seems the best option in her condition,” he said. “I believe she is safe there. And William is close by. Come, your mother is ready.”
    John walked out with his daughter. Mother Agnes already awaited in the carriage.   “Mary, are you sure we have everything. I don’t even think we were unpacked.”
    “Yas’m, ma’am,” Mary nodded. “But I sure do wish I could come with ya’. I ain’t been sleepin’ since that man done gone an’ broke in. What am I to do, ma’am? Are ya’ sure ya’ don’t need ma?”
    Mother Agnes’ face softened. “I suppose I could use you. I don’t know what I’ll tell Claire. She does so hate it when I bring you…well, you can just stay out of her way.”
    Hannah walked over to her horse and mounted., waiting only for her brother. Hannah watched the carriage pull out, smiling in