Civil Love

Sweat was dripping down Mary’s neck. It was the year 1864, and Mary was helping the wounded soldiers as they came into camp. It was the saddest thing she had ever seen. Most of the men were very young. Mary spent countless hours helping and healing. The hours were endless.

As Mary walked towards the back of the room, she quickly smiled at little Elizabeth. Elizabeth sat in the corner watching Mary’s every move. She had gotten separated from her family. They were nowhere to be found. Mary had taken her in and cared for her like a daughter. She rocked the girl at night as she cried and cried for her momma. During the day, little Elizabeth was Mary’s helper. She ran and got things as quickly as she could. She seemed to anticipate Mary’s every need.

“Do you want to help me?” Mary asked the little girl.

“Me?” Elizabeth pointed to herself in surprise.

“Yes, you!” replied Mary. Mary asked Elizabeth to gather cloths to wipe the sweat and blood off the soldiers as they came in. Elizabeth hurried to the task, helping the soldiers.

The next morning the captain came in to say that Elizabeth’s mother was found but that she wouldn’t be able to arrive for a few more days. Elizabeth shouted with glee. She was excited to be back with her mom. But for now, she had work to do.

“Come on, Miss Mary. We have work to do,” Elizabeth said.