The 'Beyond' Trilogy

But Major Ferguson was not done yet; she was too cocky, too self-assured. “You claim you are loyal to our cause,” he challenged with a malicious grin, disbelieving.

“Despite my heritage, I have proven my loyalty beyond doubt, sir. You have no right to question me in such a manner.”

“I have every right, madam.” His voice turned surly.

Bristling at his use of that term in addressing her, she leaned closer, planting both fists firmly on the table that separated them, pinning him with a fierce glare. Jason tensed, remembering the violent eruption this gesture had precluded a few months back.

Lord Cornwallis started to intervene, but thinking it more interesting to watch her in action, sat back quietly to observe.

“I have been informed that you played a most important role in the planning of the recent encounter with Major Beldon’s troops,” Ferguson stated coldly.

She nodded, eyeing him uneasily. Where was he going with this line of questioning?

“I understand we lost several excellent men. Was that due to poor planning or perhaps some other reason?” His voice held an accusing edge.

Furious beyond words, unable to contain her rage, she slammed both fists on the table, causing plates and silverware to clatter, startling all but Jason. Leaning in close to the major, a muscle twitched in her jaw as she hissed, “Yes, plans which ultimately caused the death of my nephew, a fifteen year old boy with his whole life ahead of him,” she spat. “… and I watched him die.” Her last words were no more than a hoarse whisper.

Jason moved quickly to her side, placing a comforting hand gently in the small of her back. For the briefest instant, her fury lingered as she glowered at the speechless major. Then she straightened slowly and stepped back from the table, taking measured even breaths—fighting for restraint, struggling to regain her composure. Glancing quickly at Jason, assuring him she was again in control, she turned her attention once more to the major.

“Major Ferguson, dislike me as a person; that is acceptable. But never question my loyalty again—never!” she hissed, skewering him with a withering gaze.

General Cornwallis sat mesmerized. What an incredible temper—such passion she displays. And yet, with no more than a gentle touch and knowing look from her husband, she quells that fiery temper, suppresses her outrage.

He had seen her do the same for the colonel’s violent nature upon occasion. An incredible couple; and what a dynamic bond unifies them. He watched Kathryn face her husband, noting what silently passed between them … a look of such intensity the air surrounding them seemed to fairly crackle … and marveled at the strength of their devotion.

Major Ferguson, aware of their deep feelings for each other, found the fact annoying. Was he angry with this man who regularly bested him in many areas? Was he jealous of the fact that the colonel had a prize he, himself, had never been able to attain? Or was he angered that a colonial, the term was offensive to his finer sensibilities, could command the respect of Lord Cornwallis? He was not sure which aggravated him more but decided, at least for the moment, to cease analyzing further.

“My apologies, milord, for my inappropriate actions, there is no excuse for such a display of temper …”

Cornwallis stepped around the table, interrupting her. “I am truly sorry about your nephew, Kathryn. It must be a bitter pill to swallow.” With a quick hug, he took her arm.

“Let us enjoy tea down by the pond. A little walk and fresh air would be in order, I believe.”

As they headed out across the lawn, Cornwallis spoke with sincerity. “I believe in you completely, my dear. Major Ferguson will do the same, because I say so.” He eyed Ferguson meaningfully, creating a cool truce between them.

“I had to be sure of your loyalties, milady, as your influence with the colonel of our dragoons is of utmost importance,” Ferguson said softly, almost apologetically.

Kathryn nodded, not particularly believing his explanation, but ready to take the conversation in a different direction. They paused, taking fresh tea offered by the butler, and watched the ducks paddling contentedly in the pond. Kathryn sipped slowly, absorbing the beauty surrounding her for several minutes before turning to Cornwallis.

“Milord, I have read a great deal about your battle strategies and am fascinated.”

Jason watched her closely, not entirely sure where this conversation was going.

“You have had great success, so far,” a quiet statement of fact.

“Madam?” His lordship was piqued.

Undaunted, she proceeded to explain, “You have a tendency towards arrogance, milord.”

Jason tensed as the general’s color began to rise. But Kathryn was not intimidated by either the major’s angry look, or his lordship’s high color.

“Do not underestimate the rebels,” she warned. “They are far more than ignorant farmers. They believe in their cause wholeheartedly, and will fight with the tenacity of bulldogs against all odds. I know this for a fact; I know my brother and those who follow him. Our schooling may not be that of fine English officers; perhaps more aptly described: an education gleaned from hard work, constant struggle to survive in a new land, and a devout love of freedom for that land.”

They all listened intently.

“Do not sell them short, milord. Pride and arrogance go hand in hand, often preventing one from seeing the truth of a situation, until sometimes … it is too late.”

“How dare you insult his lordship in such manner?” Major Ferguson stepped towards her in a menacing gesture, but Jason moved between them shielding his wife.

“I do not presume to insult, Major,” she answered calmly. Standing tall, she placed both hands on her hips and moved to face him without fear. “I merely point out a truth which may help you in battle, if you can step back and analyze with an unbiased mind.”

At that moment, Cornwallis spoke up. Initially angered by the perceived insult, he slowly acknowledged her words. He had not become a great general through ineptitude or lack of attention to statements that rang of truth.

“You are correct, Mrs. Tarrington,” he said, as all three turned to face him. “You anger me because you have pricked my pride.” His look softened. “You are an incredibly perceptive woman: discerning, fearless, defiant.” He studied her intently.

“All the qualities of a rebel, milord, do not disregard that fact.” Her smile was friendly, filled with warmth.

“I will consider all we have discussed here today,” he said thoughtfully. “I would also like to make a request that your husband,” he emphasized the word, “and you, will return for a visit in the near future; one of fewer questions and far less intensity.”

Jason nodded as his arm slid around his wife’s waist.

“Come, let us take a walk, it is such a delightful day.” His lordship turned to his major who still looked somewhat nonplussed. “Swallow your pride, Major, and join us.”

Nodding assent, Ferguson actually allowed himself to smile at the couple.

“You know, Colonel, you are a lucky man.”

“I am that, milord.”

“You are also a changed man, and those changes are good,” he said thoughtfully.

The general smiled at Kathryn. With her directness and candor, she was a multi-faceted gem. He would weigh her words and try to heed her reprimand. Yes, he found himself already looking forward to their next visit.