~*~Early November 1767~*~

The people of Setauket had gathered for their yearly celebration. A large bonfire burned in the centre of the green. The men chatted with ales in hand. The women prepared tables of food soon to be served. Most of the children ran about playing games. But not nine, almost ten-year-old Lydia Woodhull. Lydia shifted uncomfortably on the bench from where she sat watching the other children run. She was quite envious, wishing that she could be out there with them. But, her father had insisted she sit and not wear herself out because she was finally on the mend from an early autumn cold she had caught. So, there she sat wrapped in her cloak with a blanket spread across her lap staring at the fire.

Lydia frowned as Abe ran past with Ben and Caleb. She felt fine, but she knew her father to be over cautious as far as she was concerned. She fidgeted on the bench before folding her arms across her chest to pout. Lydia knew that she should be grateful that her father even allowed her to come in the first place, but she couldn't help her feelings on the matter. All she could do was try to conceal them and that wasn't going so well.

"Are you feeling better, Lydia?" a woman's voice asked as she approached the bench where Lydia sat. Lydia turned to see that the voice belonged to Missus Tallmadge, Ben's mother. The woman smiled softly at the young girl before taking a seat beside her on the bench. "Benjamin tells me that you've been ill."

Lydia nodded her head. "But I'm feeling much better now, thank you." She tried to give Ben's mother a smile, but when the boys ran by once again. This time Annie Smith was even running about with them. Lydia couldn't help but show her jealousy as her face fell and her bottom lip jutted out.

Missus Tallmadge chuckled before she gently pressed her hand against Lydia's forehead and held it there for a few seconds. "No fever," she muttered to herself. She then cupped Lydia's cheeks with her hands and eyed her curiously. "Your colouring is good. I don't see any reason why you shouldn't be allowed to play for a bit."

"My father..."

"Surely wouldn't object between a game of graces between us girls." Missus Tallmadge smiled, her eyes shining in the firelight. The Tallmadge children must have gotten their rebellious streak from her. The older woman took hold of Lydia's hand and led her to a set of hoops and sticks that two girls had left lying there. Missus Tallmadge picked up a pair of sticks and handed them to Lydia. "Do you remember how to play?" she asked, having taught Lydia the game during the summer.

Lydia's brow furrowed. "I believe so."

Missus Tallmadge gently patted Lydia's shoulder. "I'll start and we'll see what you remember." Lydia nodded her head, causing her hood to fall back. "But first, fix your hood, child." Lydia quickly did as she was told as Missus Tallmadge picked up a hoop. The older woman slipped the hoop on one of her sticks before she managed the second stick through it, crossing the sticks so that they looked almost like scissors. "Now, you try to catch the hoop with your sticks, Lydia."

Lydia chewed her bottom lip and carefully watched as the hoop hurtled toward her. A slight breeze caused the hoop to veer in a different direction. Lydia chased after it, but it fell to the ground before she could get close to it. It was then her turn, she bent over to pick it up before she put the hoop on her sticks and flung it toward Missus Tallmadge. The older woman caught it and Lydia clapped in excitement. She liked spending time with Missus Tallmadge much better than she did Widow Browne. Missus Tallmadge acted like what Lydia thought a mother would act like, Widow Browne never did that. Besides, Missus Tallmadge said that despite the good Lord blessing her with five sons, she had always hoped for a daughter.

They continued to play, throwing the hoop back and forth until young Isaac Tallmadge came running toward his mother. "Mother! Mother!" the five-year-old called. "John is being mean to me! He pushed me!" The small boy wrapped his arms around his mother's skirts. John was two months older than Lydia and he was probably the rowdiest of the Tallmadge boys. He certainly kept his mother on her toes.

Missus Tallmadge looked over at Lydia sympathetically and sighed. "If you'll excuse me for just a moment," Missus Tallmadge said to Lydia, gently rubbing Isaac's back. "Duty calls." Lydia nodded her head in understanding. Missus Tallmadge turned to walk with Isaac when Ben ran past, nearly running into his mother. "Benjamin!" Missus Tallmadge called.

Ben stopped in his tracks. He turned to face his mother somewhat sheepishly. "Yes, Mother?" he asked with his hands behind his back.

"Please stay and play with Lydia while I deal with your brothers."

Lydia could have sworn she saw him breathe a sigh of relief over not being in trouble. He then nodded his head and said, "Yes, Mother." Missus Tallmadge hanged her sticks to Ben before she walked away with Isaac. Ben stared at the sticks in confusion which made Lydia giggle. "What exactly are am I supposed to do with these?"

"Haven't you ever played before Benj?" Lydia asked with a grin.

"No," Ben scoffed. "This is a girl's game." He glanced at Lydia to see that her grin had faded to a disheartened as she lowered her sticks. Immediately, he knew he had said the wrong thing. He hated seeing her like that and knew he needed to rectify the situation. "But I'm sure it can't be all that bad," he added, closing the distance between them. With his height, he easily towered over Lydia as he stood there. "That is if you'd be willing to teach a cad like me."

Ben glanced pleadingly at Lydia. For a moment she pursed her lips and rested her hands on her hips, scrutinising him with narrowed eyes. "You just don't want to get in trouble with your mother," she mused.

"That's part of it," he admitted sheepishly. Glancing down at Lydia, Ben seeing that he hadn't quite convinced her. "Please, Lyddie?" he asked with his boyish grin.

Lydia sighed. She always had a hard time saying no to Ben. "Fine," she groaned, rolling her eyes. Ben smiled and gently nudged her arm with his elbow. Then, just as Missus Tallmadge had taught her how to play the game, Lydia taught Ben how to play.

While Ben picked the game up fairly quickly, much to his surprise, the game was actually harder than he thought it would be. Lydia would giggle every time he tried to hurdle the hoop toward her. Somehow, he always managed to make a mess of things. Although, after the first several attempts he began doing it on purpose because it made Lydia laugh. He liked hearing her laugh and being the one to make her do so. Besides, she could probably use a good laugh or two after being cooped up at Whitehall since she had taken ill.

After several rounds back and forth with the hoop, Ben saw someone sneaking up on Lydia from behind. The young man motioned for Ben to be quiet by placing a lone finger across his lips. Ben gave a slight nod of his head and smiled before he called for Lydia to send the hoop in his direction. She was certainly in for a surprise.

Lydia flung the hoop in Ben's direction and he easily caught it. Just then, the young man growled from behind Lydia, frightening her. She screamed, which made Ben start to laugh, as the young man wrapped his arms around Lydia. Lydia turned with wide eyes to find that the person sneaking up on her was her eldest brother Thomas. She squealed and flung her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly. Lydia sorely missed her eldest brother who was away in York City for schooling.

"Good work, Tallmadge," Thomas chuckled, nodding his head at Ben while holding tightly onto his sister.

Ben nodded his head in return, hiding the sticks for the game of graces behind his back in slight embarrassment. He just stood there watching the Woodhull siblings when Abe, Caleb, and Annie ran past. Ben turned his head to watch his friends, torn between the duty his mother had asked of him and wanting to play with his friends. Lydia must have noticed because she said, "Go on, Benj. You are hereby released from your obligation to play with me."

"You're sure?" he asked hesitantly. Lydia nodded her head, causing the hood of her cape to fall. She smiled at him and he knew that she meant her words. Ben dropped the sticks he had been holding. "I'll make it up to you. I promise." He then quickly ran away, chasing after his friends.

Lydia leaned against her older brother as she watched Ben run away. Thomas cleared his throat behind her. She turned to look at her brother who glanced at her with an eyebrow raised. "Benjamin Tallmadge, huh?" he asked. "Isn't he a bit old for you?"

She rolled her eyes. "I'm nine, Thomas."

"Almost ten. Which means Father's going to be thinking of marrying you off sooner or later."

Lydia folded her arms across her chest and looked at him quite unamused. Thomas laughed and ruffled her hair. "I'm only teasing you. Now, pull that hood on, sister. Father tells me you've been ill."

"I'm fine," Lydia groaned.

"Do as you're told, Lydia. Besides, Father would have my hide if he knew I let you about without it on. You wouldn't want that, would you?" Lydia shook her head before she tugged her hood back on. "Was that so hard?" Thomas asked with a slight chuckle. He didn't wait for her response. "Now, come, Lydia. Let us stand by the food. The womenfolk look almost done and it's closer to the fire. We don't want Father fretting too much. You know how he gets."

Thomas offered Lydia his arm and she accepted it before they walked a little closer toward the fire and food. "How long are you home?"

"Not as long as you'd like, but let's not dwell on that now, Lydia. Let's enjoy what time we do have together."

Lydia nodded her head and did as she was told, following Thomas toward the food. Aberdeen had packed them a basket with plates and cutlery for the evening and their father came toward them with it. "Good to see you home, son," Richard said extending his hand toward Thomas. Thomas smiled and shook his father's hand. Richard then turned toward his daughter. He bent down and kissed her forehead. "How are you feeling?" he asked.

"Father, I'm fine," Lydia stated.

Richard felt his daughter's cheeks. "I don't want you tiring yourself and taking ill again, Lydia."

"I hardly think she can tire herself much more sitting on that bench eating her dinner, Father," Thomas spoke up in her defence. Richard nodded his head and gruffly agreed. Thomas smiled down at his sister.

Suddenly, people stopped talking and children stopped playing. Reverend Tallmadge led the group in prayer. When he finished everyone joined in on the amen before the food line began to form. Thomas and Lydia joined the line for food. As they went through the line, Lydia couldn't help but notice some of the older girls giggling as Thomas walked by them. For the most part, Thomas seemed oblivious.

"Are you just going to ignore them?" Lydia asked her brother as they walked to a bench with their plates in hand.

Thomas shrugged his shoulders. "Haven't yet decided. But for now, the only girl who has my attention is you." Thomas reached down and tapped his sister's nose. Lydia looked up at her brother and grinned. They sat down on the bench and began to eat their food.

They were soon joined by Abe, Ben, and Caleb. While the bench could usually only fit four people, the five of them squeezed together. Ben smiled as he sat down beside Lydia. Although, they didn't speak a word to each other while they ate. Ben slightly turned his back toward her while he conversed with Caleb and Abe.

After Lydia had finished eating the food on her plate, she attempted to stifle a yawn. Thomas chuckled and took her plate from her before he went back for second helpings. Not realising how tired she was, Lydia nodded off, accidentally falling asleep on Ben's shoulder. "Lyddie. Lyddie, wake up," Ben whispered to her, gently shrugging his shoulder trying to wake her, but she wouldn't wake.

Before he could tell Abe or Caleb, they took off running, leaving Ben sitting there with Lydia sleeping on him. Ben didn't want to leave her alone. Besides, if he moved, she would likely fall in a heap to the ground. He glanced at the food to see Thomas engrossed in conversation. So, Ben just sat there, as still as he could. He watched the flames of the fire flicker until Judge Woodhull finally came to fetch his sleeping daughter.

Judge Woodhull approached with Ben's father, noting their children. Reverend Tallmadge had a good laugh at seeing Lydia asleep on his son before he said something to Richard that Ben couldn't quite make out. Ben looked rather uncomfortable as Judge Woodhull eyed him somewhat suspiciously. The boy refused to make eye contact with the magistrate. Judge Woodhull grunted before he lifted his daughter into his arms and carried her away.

~*~Early November 1776~*~

The sun was just beginning to rise as Lydia awakened. Slowly, she stretched and glanced at the empty side of her bed. It seemed so long ago now that Ben had graced that spot, despite it only have been days. Every day Lydia prayed that he had managed to come out of the ambush unscathed. While news of the ambush began to trickle into their sleepy hamlet, she still had yet to hear from Ben. Her only assurance was the fact that only the British soldiers seemed to be listed as casualties. Ifsomething had happened to Ben, surely word would have reached them by now.

But Lydia could not spend her days only fretting about Ben. She had duties that needed attending. So, she rose from her bed and readied herself for the day, dressing in an informal caraco and petticoat before loosely pinning her hair out of her face. Walking into the hall, she took note that while her father's door was open, Major Hewlett's was not. He was either still sleeping or dressing. Not wanting to disturb him, Lydia quietly descended the stairs, making sure to skip the one that loudly creaked.

She had just reached the bottom of the stairs when she glanced out the window to see Abraham and their father engrossed in a rather serious conversation. Reaching for her shawl, she put it on before she opened the door and walked onto the porch. There was a chill in the air that nearly knocked the breath out of her for a moment, but she exhaled seeing her breath in the air. "Good morning, Father. Abraham," Lydia greeted, pulling the shawl a little tighter.

Richard and Abraham simply stared at her, neither one speaking a word. Lydia's brow furrowed. "Am I interrupting something?" she asked.

"This is a matter for the magistrate," Richard answered. "Back inside with you."

Lydia nodded her head and turned to go when Abe said, "Father, she might as well know. I'm sure the whole town will know within the hour." Richard sighed and pondered Abe's words for a moment before he finally nodded his head. Abe looked at his sister. "Someone set fire to my crop this morning."

"Are Mary and Thomas..." Lydia asked worriedly.

"Fine, they're both fine. But my crop is gone."

"Thank the Lord your family is unharmed, but Abraham, I'm so sorry." She bridged the distance between them and embraced him in a hug. "Do you know who it was?"

Abe shook his head as he gently patted his sister's back. "They wore masks of Guy Fawkes like the soldiers are making for the bonfire night."

Lydia then turned toward her father. "Father, isn't there anything you can do?"

Richard sighed. "As I was telling Abraham, it could have been almost anyone. There are plenty of people who think he got away with murdering Captain Joyce and would find this to be a just reward."

"How is setting fire to his crop just? An eye for an eye I get, but this? It's wrong. Even if Abraham committed the deed accused against him, it's still wrong." Lydia turned toward Abe. "Not that I think you killed Captain Joyce because I don't. I know you didn't. We might not always see eye to eye on things, but I know you Abe and I know you couldn't do that. Besides, what about what the good Lord says in Matthew about taking a grievance up with your brother? Talking to them about it. Whoever did this can't possibly call themselves Christian."

"I concur," Richard said. He glanced at Abe and then at Lydia. "Lydia, why don't you go check on Aberdeen and make sure she has breakfast started. I'm quite famished."

Lydia arched an eyebrow. "You could have just said that you wished to speak further with Abraham alone instead of sending me off on a meaningless task."

"Lydia, do as you're told."

"Yes, Father." Lydia plastered a fake smile on her face before she turned around and walked back inside. Once she closed the door behind her, she rolled her eyes in disgust. She hated being treated less than what she was. Just because she was of the delicate sex didn't mean she was actually delicate. Not that most men seemed to pay that fact any heed.

Lydia glanced inside the kitchen. Aberdeen seemed to have everything perfectly handled, as usual. There really was no reason for her to check on Aberdeen. Lydia sighed, causing Aberdeen to glance up at her. "Everything all right, child?" Aberdeen asked.

For a moment, Lydia debated confessing her troubles to Aberdeen. She had always been able to trust Aberdeen in the past, but unsure of when her father might return she decided against it. Lydia simply nodded her head with a forced smile on her face before she walked away. Overhead, she could hear the footsteps of Major Hewlett. This was the latest he had wakened since taking up residence at Whitehall. Although Lydia was fairly certain he had received word of the ambush in Connecticut by this point, although he said nothing, she was certain his nights had been filled with restless sleep. Whereas Lydia had slept quite soundly knowing that Simcoe had been taken care of.

When it was finally time for breakfast, Lydia sat at the table with her father and Major Hewlett. Neither man conversed much. Both men seemed to be lost in their thoughts, something Lydia could often relate with, but it did make for a dreadfully boring meal. She took a bite of her eggs and wiped the corner of her mouth with her napkin. "Father, I was wondering if I might get a ride this morning," Lydia said.

"Where to?" Richard asked quizzically. He knew that his daughter much preferred to walk rather than ride along in the cart.

"I-I was thinking that I would stop by and see Mary and Thomas. To see how they are doing and perhaps bring them some vittles."

"Why would you need to bring Abraham's family vittles?" Major Hewlett questioned.

Lydia pursed her lips for a moment, glancing at her father. They made eye contact. It was clear that Richard wasn't pleased that his daughter had chosen to include the major in the conversation. Lydia mused that her father probably wanted to speak with Major Hewlett on the matter when she was not present because it wasn't a woman's place to be in the conversation. But Lydia knew that she could push her father to a certain extent. So, she tried her luck. "Are you going to tell him or must I?"

Major Hewlett arched an eyebrow. "Tell me what?"

Richard grumbled something under his breath before he looked at Major Hewlett. "Someone set fire to Abraham's crop."

Hewlett's eyes widened. "Is everyone all right?" Richard nodded his head and the major breathed a sigh of relief. "While it is a travesty to lose one's means of livelihood, it is by the grace of God that his family was spared. Richard, if there is any way I can be of assistance..."

"Perhaps," Richard interrupted the major. "But now is not the company in which to discuss such matters."

Lydia immediately tensed at her father's words. She knew that he was referring to her. While she wanted to speak her mind on the matter, she knew better than to talk back to her father in front of the major. Rather begrudgingly, Lydia took another bite of her breakfast as the conversation once again lulled back to silence.

When breakfast was through, Lydia packed a basket of vittles. She debated changing her clothes to something less informal, but Mary and Thomas were family. Not to mention that there was no one in Setauket whom she was trying to impress. The only person she ever wanted to impress was Ben, but she never really had to try. Lydia sighed at thoughts of Ben. She already missed him, but she knew better than to perform the ruse again. She would just have to find contentment remembering his visit.

Outside, her father helped her onto the cart. He was going to let her off at Abe's before he continued into town. Town no doubt would be busy with the preparations for the bonfire night. Lydia wasn't all that sure she wanted to attend the gathering. Although she had a sneaking suspicion as the daughter of the magistrate, still living under his roof, she would be forced to attend. Her father always used these occasions to seek out any husband prospects, but Lydia only had a place in her heart for Ben. Not that she could tell her father that. Not now anyway, but she would have to tell him eventually because he was bound to find a suitable prospect sooner or later.

The ride to Abe's was a rather silent affair. Lydia mused that her father must have had much on his mind. Much that he couldn't share with her. She was thankful when their cart pulled up to Abe's farm. There was a smoky haze outside and there was a charry scent to the air. Lydia shielded her eyes from the sun to get a better look at the building that had been set ablaze. Her heart sunk at the sight of the destroyed building. While she was thankful that Abe, Luke, and Jeremiah had managed to keep the fire from spreading to the house, the sight hurt her heart for her brother. Abe always seemed to have terrible luck when it came to striking out on his own.

The door to the house opened. Mary walked outside with Thomas perched on her hip. Richard hopped off the cart and helped Lydia down as they approached. "Good morning, Father. Good morning, Lydia," Mary greeted. "To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit?" Her tone was rather chipper, especially given the seriousness of what happened to her husband's hard labour.

"I'm on my way into town and Lydia wished to visit," Richard said before holding his hands out toward Thomas. "And I happily obliged as it would allow me the chance to see my little soldier."

Mary handed Thomas over before she wiped her hands on her petticoat. "Well, there is plenty of work to be done and I would appreciate the help. That is if you can spare Lydia, Father."

Richard nodded his head. "She's all yours, Mary."

"And if you don't mind helping," Mary said to Lydia with a chuckle.

Lydia smiled and handed Mary the basket of vittles. "We're family. Of course, I'll help where I can." Mary smiled as she accepted the basket.

"Just have her home this afternoon, Mary," Richard said gently bouncing his grandson. He then looked at his daughter. "I'll pick you up and escort you to the bonfire night."

Wisely, Lydia said nothing. She just nodded her head, having already anticipated such a plot. Instead, she just reached out and took her nephew from her father. With baby Thomas in her arms, her father kissed his grandson's forehead before kissing his daughter's forehead. Lydia sighed and watched her father climb back on the cart before he drove away toward town. She waved Thomas's arm for him, which made the boy giggle. Lydia then pressed a kiss against his cheek before she followed Mary inside.

"It was very good of you to come, Lydia," Mary said as she held the door open for Lydia.

Lydia crossed the threshold into the house. "I wanted to be sure you were all right. Abe's news was surely unsettling. Although I must confess, deep down, part of me was selfishly hoping that I would be able to skip the bonfire night." Lydia smirked at her sister-in-law.

Mary shook her head and chuckled. "If I didn't have Thomas to look after I would go myself."

"Then I would have someone to share in my misery." Lydia sat down at the table in front of the hearth with Thomas on her lap.

"You're just being dramatic. I'm sure it won't be that bad."

Lydia arched an eyebrow. "Then I'm afraid you are underestimating Richard Woodhull's abilities. It's a good thing none of the soldiers in the garrison can pass his muster or I'd be entered into an engagement against my will this very evening."

Just then Ensign Baker entered the room. His wig wasn't on quite right and his red coat was carelessly strewn against the back of a chair. When he caught sight of Lydia, he froze for a moment and stared at her blankly. Lydia sympathetically offered him a smile. "Good-good morning, Miss Woodhull," Ensign Baker stammered.

"Good morning, Ensign Baker," Lydia said lightly.

Still flustered, he continued. "I-I wasn't expecting you."

"This is my brother's home."

"Oh. Right. I knew that."

Lydia glanced at Mary to save her. Mary smiled and shook her head. "Would you like some breakfast, Ensign Baker?" Mary asked.

Ensign Baker turned to look at Mary. It was as if he hadn't known she was there the entire time. "I-I'm late for my sentry post. Otherwise, I would." Mary nodded her head knowingly. Ensign Baker stood there for a moment before he awkwardly crossed the room to grab his coat. He put his coat on and then glanced between Lydia and Mary. After clearing his throat he said, "Good day, Missus Woodhull, Miss Woodhull." He turned to leave and tripped over the leg of the chair.

Lydia kissed the top of her nephew's head to hide the smile that threatened to give her away. Mary must have seen her reaction because she got a glint in her eyes. "Ensign Baker," Mary said, causing the man to turn toward her and look at her curiously. "Were you planning on attending the bonfire night this evening?"

"I-uh-yes," he stammered. "That is if it's all right with you."

Mary chuckled. "By all means. You don't need my permission Ensign Baker." Mary glanced at Lydia before turning toward Ensign Baker once more. "Perhaps you'll make an effort to see Miss Woodhull there then?"

Ensign Baker grinned. "I will." He slightly bowed toward Mary and then Lydia before he took his leave.

Lydia looked at Mary rather incredulously before she took the handkerchief that rested on the table and threw it at her sister. Mary giggled as the cloth missed her. "Mary," Lydia groaned. "That poor man."

Mary placed her hands on her hips. "What? I do think he would make you a fine husband, I've told you as much before, and I do not think he would be opposed to the idea. And before you bring your father into this, I'm sure he could persuaded. Unless you find some fault with him." Mary watched her sister-in-law's expression carefully.

Lydia sighed. Mary didn't know about Ben. Well, she knew that there had once been something between her and Ben, but she wasn't aware of present matters. Lydia often wished she could confide in Mary about Ben. If Mary knew, she might not force the matter, but Lydia knew that would not be advantageous to share her secret. At least not yet anyway. Although it pained her to keep something like this from a woman like a sister to her.

Lydia chewed her lip before she responded, "Perhaps, I just do not wish to marry. Someone needs to look after Father."

"If it is Father you are worried about, I'm hoping that what happened to Abraham's crop will prompt our move to Whitehall. Father wouldn't be alone with Abraham, Thomas, and me. Meaning, you needn't feel obligated to stay with him."

"He's my father. I'll always feel obligated to him. But enough on the subject, please. How might Thomas and I assist you today?" Lydia rested her chin on the top of her nephew's head and looked at Mary.

"Thomas, you offered to help, Aunt Lydia? Good boy," Mary chuckled before chewing her bottom lip and looking at her somewhat dishevelled home. "Would you mind terribly hanging up the wash? I started it before you and Father arrived."

"We can do that, can't we Thomas?" Lydia said to her nephew. "We can help your ma with the wash." Thomas looked up at Lydia and grinned, which made Lydia chuckle before she looked up at Mary. "He doesn't seem opposed to the idea."

"What a good boy, Thomas. Helping your Aunt Lydia is very fine of you." Mary smiled at her son. Seeing his mother's smile made the young boy smile. Mary gently tapped her son's nose before she began tidying up.

Lydia stood up and rested Thomas against her hip before she walked outside. She walked around the house until she came to the place where Mary had the tubs laid out and the clothes soaking. After setting her nephew down on the grass, Lydia pushed up her sleeves and pulled a petticoat from the wash. She wrung the water out before she gave it a couple of shakes and walked it over to the drying line. After the petticoat was hung, Lydia glanced at her nephew and smiled.

"You know what makes the work go by faster, Thomas?" Lydia asked him with her hands on her hips. "Singin'." She bent down and grabbed a nightshirt to wring before she started singing Johnny's Gone For A Soldier. Her voice was sweet and clear and entranced young Thomas. It also carried inside the house, where Mary stopped her work inside to listen to Lydia's singing for a moment. But Lydia continued to hang the wash as she sang:

Here I sit on Buttermilk Hill

Who can blame me, cryin' my fill

And ev'ry tear would turn a mill,

Johnny has gone for a soldier.

Me, oh my, I loved him so,

Broke my heart to see him go,

And only time will heal my woe,

Johnny has gone for a soldier.

I'll sell my rod, I'll sell my reel,

Likewise, I'll sell my spinning wheel,

And buy my love a sword of steel,

Johnny has gone for a soldier.

I'll dye my dress, I'll dye it red,

And through the streets, I'll beg for bread,

For the lad that I love from me has fled,

Johnny has gone for a soldier.

Johnny's gone for a soldier...

When the song was finished, Lydia walked over to Thomas and knelt beside him. "Can you keep a secret, Thomas?" she whispered. Thomas looked at her with big eyes and blinked. She smiled. "My Benjamin has gone for a soldier." With a sigh, she sat down on the ground. "I hope one day you will get to know him. I think he would make you a fine uncle." Lydia sighed once more. "Oh, Ben."

Thomas looked up at Lydia and seemingly out of nowhere, he said, "Ben." For a moment, Lydia thought she must have imagined it, but when Thomas repeated the name again, her eyes widened in horror. "Ben. Ben. Ben."

"Oh, no, no, no," Lydia whispered to her nephew shaking her head. She placed a hand over his mouth as he continued to babble the name. She placed a lone finger in front of her lips. "Sh!" But Thomas must have found it to be an amusing game because he continued to repeat Ben against Lydia's hand. "No, Thomas. Stop."

Thankfully, Thomas stopped. Lydia breathed a sigh of relief. She shouldn't have been so careless to talk about Ben in front of Thomas, but sometimes she just needed someone to talk to about Ben. Especially since she was not supposed to be interacting with Anna Strong. Not that she listened, but still she did not get to see her friend as much as she liked.

Lydia removed her hand from Thomas's mouth. "Good boy," she told him. She kissed his cheek before she returned to finish her task of hanging the wash to dry. Once the task was done, she picked Thomas up and carried him back inside.

They just stopped in front of the hearth when Thomas said, "Ben." Lydia froze, hoping that Mary had not heard her son, but Thomas continued. "Ben. Ben. Ben."

Sure enough, Mary turned around and glanced at them with her brow furrowed.

"Pen, I think he's trying to say pen. Must have been listening when I was talking to him while I was hanging the wash," Lydia offered, hoping that Mary would believe her. It was much easier than explaining the alternative.

A moment later, Mary nodded her head and smiled before she crossed the room to take hold of her son. "It seems like he picks up on so much these days," Mary said, hugging Thomas. "Soon enough he will be walking and talking. Not that he needs to grow up so fast."

Lydia breathed a sigh of relief that Mary didn't seem to think much of the situation. Although, Thomas continued to repeat the name Ben for the remainder of her visit.

Several more chores and a meal later, Lydia walked back to Whitehall to ready herself for the bonfire night. Her casual attire certainly would not be acceptable for a social outing such as this. While she needed time to ready herself, Lydia kept an unusually slow pace on her jaunt back home. It was the least she could do to delay the inevitable.

Upon her return to Whitehall, she found her father already home. He had Aberdeen standing by to help her dress. It was clear that he was not going to let her waste more time than she already had. He knew her too well. So, Lydia did as was expected of her. Aberdeen helped her change into her blue silk gown. Not that it was all that suitable for being outdoors, but her father had suggested she wear it to Aberdeen. She was far too dressed up for the occasion. Lydia hoped that he hadn't invited suitors in an attempt to woo her, although, she would not put it past him.

When her hair was done and everything was in place, Lydia descended the stairs. Her father was impatiently waiting for her at the bottom. While he did not vocalise his frustration, it was quite clear from his facial expression. But he took a step toward her and offered his daughter his arm. Lydia accepted his arm. She gently rested her hand on his arm before she followed him outside to the cart.

Once they reached the green, Richard helped his daughter from the cart. He kissed her cheek and told her to enjoy herself. Lydia found his words suspicious, but she did not say anything. Instead, she kissed his cheek in return before they parted for a time. Lydia walked through the townspeople at the bonfire looking for someone to keep her company. Aside from Mary and Anna, Lydia didn't have much for female companionship.

The girls her age had always thought her wild, growing up in a home of only men and wanted little to do with her. Then there were some of them who still looked down on her in spite and jealousy for bewitching Benjamin Tallmadge when they were young. To this day, they still carried that pettiness with them. Although, most of them were quite relieved they hadn't garnered his attention once they found out he had joined the Rebel cause. Sadly, it seemed the only people who had any interest in her were the menfolk and she did not care for nor want their attention. Well, the older and married womenfolk did not seem to mind her, but she often wondered if it was only because they took pity on her because of her situation.

Lydia walked around the area several times hoping to find Anna or Reverend Tallmadge, but she found neither. Anna was likely at the tavern working and Lydia hadn't really expected Reverend Tallmadge to come. So, just like she had nine years earlier, Lydia found a bench and settled down. Although, this time it was by choice and not out of obedience.

So, Lydia sat there and watched the people of Setauket and the soldiers enjoying themselves as the sky continued to darken. She wished she was able to enjoy herself, but her thoughts kept turning to Ben and what they would be doing if he were here. Lydia found herself watching a newly married couple near the fire. They snuck a kiss thinking no one was watching them. Lydia blushed and quickly turned to gaze into the fire, losing herself to her thoughts.

~*~ June 1772~*~

It was summer and the young men who had gone off for schooling were back home for a time. The young people of Setauket were holding a gathering outside Whitehall to celebrate their return. With two sons returning for a time, Judge Woodhull had offered to host the gathering and much to Lydia's surprise, he had given her permission to attend.

For that Lydia was grateful. She had been corresponding with Benjamin Tallmadge for three years now and he had easily captured her heart. While she knew it wasn't likely that she would be allowed to spend much time with him alone, simply being able to see him once again would be enough for her. Especially since she hadn't seen him since before he had taken ill while at Yale. He had come down with the measles and Lydia had prayed for his recovery every day after hearing word of his illness. Thankfully, he was now on the mend. Nevertheless, she was excited to see him.

Lydia had just finished placing her apple tarts on the makeshift table outside when she looked up to see the Tallmadge boys approaching. The only Tallmadge boy, not present was Isaac, but he was much too young for such an event. She waved at them. Ben was the first to wave back at her, quickly followed by John. Neither William nor Samuel seemed to take notice of her. Lydia sighed and chewed her lip. John was beginning to become a bit of a thorn in her side. It seemed like Ben wasn't the only Tallmadge boy vying for her affection.

"I see Ben's home," Annie Smith said as she approached the table. Annie grinned rather slyly at Lydia, who blushed. That made Annie laugh and Lydia blush even more. Annie was very much like a sister to her and Lydia wouldn't be surprised if Annie and Abe got engaged within the next year or two. "Aren't you going to go greet him?" Annie asked with her hands on her hips. "It would be rude not to."

Lydia looked hesitantly at the Tallmadge boys. Annie rolled her eyes. "Well, if you're not going to..." Annie turned to head toward them when Lydia took off in a sprint. Annie stopped and grinned as she watched young Lydia run toward them. Her plan had worked just as she had expected it to.

Lydia slowed her pace and smoothed out her petticoat as she drew closer to the Tallmadge boys. Ben seemed to be grinning like a fool as she approached them. Lydia didn't catch how the other boys responded because she only had eyes for Ben. That was when she wasn't blushing and gazing at the ground. "It's quite good of you all to come," Lydia said to them.

"We wouldn't have missed it," John answered first. He received a jab in the rib from Ben for that.

"Please thank your father for hosting," Ben said politely, making eye contact with Lydia. She smiled holding his gaze.

"Perhaps we should go thank him ourselves," Samuel said glancing knowingly at Ben. This time it was Ben who blushed ever so slightly. William was more than willing to walk away, but John was not. "Oi, John, c'mon!" Samuel had to wrap his arm around John and walk him away, despite the younger boy's protests. But neither Ben nor Lydia paid him any attention.

"Hi," Ben said evenly.

"Hi," Lydia responded, tugging at her cap nervously. She was not sure why she was so nervous. It was just Ben. The same Ben she had known all her life. The same Ben who was best friends with her brother. But yet, her stomach was doing flips.

Ben cleared his throat. "How are you?"

"I'm well. And you?"

"I'm doing well. Better than I have been. The Setauket fresh air seems to agree with me." That made her smile and her smile was contagious and made Ben smile too. "It's good to see you, Lyddie," he whispered.

"You too, Benj," Lydia whispered back.

Just then, Caleb and Abe came running toward Ben. Caleb jumped onto Ben's back and howled. Ben grunted. Lydia was afraid he would topple over, especially still recovering from his illness, but Ben somehow managed to brace himself beneath Caleb's weight. Abe patted Ben's shoulder before he told Ben and Caleb to follow him and walked away. Caleb encouraged Ben to go, much like one would a horse. Ben rolled his eyes and looked at Lydia apologetically.

"Benny-boy!" Caleb groaned, tugging at Ben's hair.

"One moment, Caleb," Ben groaned.

"You can see Lyddie-girl later. Ain't that right, Lyddie?" Caleb looked directly at Lydia. She sighed and gave her nod of approval. Caleb whooped. "Let's go, Tall-boy."

Lydia watched as Ben walked away, carrying Caleb on his back. Ben had taken a few steps before he looked at Lydia over his shoulder. She nodded once more. While she would rather be the one with Ben, she knew it would never do to annoy Abe or Caleb this early into the summer season.

Slowly, Lydia walked back to where Annie stood watching the entire thing. Annie smiled knowingly, but thankfully she said nothing. Instead, they simply stood there watching the young people of Setauket begin to make their way to Whitehall. Moments later the bonfire was started and the festivities began.

Lydia stuck close to Annie throughout the evening. But that didn't stop her from catching glances here and there from Ben. Annie knew every time Lydia caught Ben looking at her because Lydia would blush, which then made Annie tease Lydia. But really, Lydia didn't mind too much because she knew that Annie understood her predicament, being in a similar one with Abe.

After some eating, drinking, and merriment, the young people settled on a game. Someone had suggested Going to Jerusalem. The game wasn't hard. Tree slice stumps were placed in a circle, one less stump than there were players. While music played, the players would walk around the ring of stumps. When the music stopped playing, everyone must find a seat. The player without a seat was then out of the game and took a stump with them. The game continued until there was only one person left sitting. Although, the stakes were a bit higher with this game. The boys were to have their own ring and the girls their own ring. At the end of the game, the winning boy and winning girl were to kiss.

Lydia had almost decided not to play, knowing her father might be watching; but Annie grabbed hold of her arm and dragged her into the game. "Methinks Ben hopes for a kiss," Annie whispered in Lydia's ear. Lydia giggled and glanced at Ben who had joined the group of boys gathering around their ring of tree slice stumps. He smiled at Lydia with a rather lop-sided grin before Abe garnered his attention.

"I'm sure Abraham is just as eager," Lydia said to Annie.

"Aye," Annie chuckled, adjusting her cap. "But there seems to be plenty of eager boys over there."

Lydia glanced over at the other boys and they were eyeing the girls with great interest. She awkwardly made eye contact with John Tallmadge before she quickly glanced elsewhere. Lydia promised herself that if Ben got out, she would purposely get out the next round. He was the only one she was interested in kissing...ever.

The fiddle began to play and Annie pushed Lydia to start moving. She tried not to make eye contact with Ben as they each walked around their respective ring, but they caught each other's glance at least twice. The music came to a stop and Lydia quickly plopped down onto a stump. She turned to her left to see Annie shaking her head at the boys' circle. Lydia turned to look in that direction before she chuckled. Abe had been the first boy to get out and he didn't look too pleased.

"I suppose you'll be getting out then?" Lydia asked Annie with a smile.

But Annie shook her head. "If I can't get my kiss, then I'm going to do everything I can to get you yours." Lydia didn't say anything. Instead, she just blushed just as the music started once again. She tripped over the hem of her petticoat, but she managed to catch herself and continue to make her way around the ring.

True to her word, Annie did everything she could to make sure Lydia stayed in the game. Although, Lydia was sure it was much to Abraham's chagrin that Annie continued. But if Abraham would listen to anyone, it was Annie and surely, she would explain things to him.

The rounds went by. One by one, a girl and a boy were each forced out from their ring until each ring was down to its final two competitors. Competing for the girls were Annie and Lydia and for the boys were Ben and John Tallmadge. Ben looked rather annoyed at his brother who was grinning maniacally. Lydia glanced at Annie worriedly. She didn't want to kiss John, although she was certain John wanted to kiss her.

"I've got a plan," Annie whispered to Lydia. "We'll be sure to go slowly. We'll wait to see which one of them sits down. If it's Ben, then you'll sit down."

"And if it's John?" Lydia asked.

Annie chewed her bottom lip for a moment before looking Lydia in the eyes. "Don't you worry your pretty head about it. I'm certain Ben will win out. He might be on the mend, but he's still stronger and faster than John, of that I'm certain."

Lydia nodded her head uncertainly. She wasn't anywhere near as certain as Annie about the situation, but she didn't really have a choice in the matter as the music started up for the last time. Lydia's heartbeat nervously as she slowly circled the last stump watching Ben and his brother. Ben looked more determined than ever to win. She could see his lips moving as he spoke to his brother, but she couldn't hear him over the music, clapping, and laughter.

The music stopped. Both Annie and Lydia stopped walking and stood to watch the boys. Lydia held her breath as she watched as John tried to push his brother away, but Ben quickly ducked the advance. This caused John to fall in a heap to the ground and allowed Ben to take a seat on the stool. Lydia smiled as Annie hissed her name and forced Lydia to sit down.

Everyone started to clap and the boys started to holler. Lydia and Ben both looked at each other blushing. Next thing they knew, they were both being dragged to their feet and being led to each other. Ben and Lyddie found themselves facing each other, unable to tear their gazes away and breathing heavily.

"Go on you two," Annie teased. "It was to be expected."

Both of them smiled softly. Ben then brought his hands to Lydia's cheeks and cupped them, waiting a moment to see if Lydia would flee, but she did not. She just kept his gaze. Ben slowly leaned in toward her. Lydia lifted her chin, slightly parted her lips, and closed her eyes. Seconds later, Ben's lips gently pressed against hers. She leaned into him, bracing his arms to steady herself. Then Ben's lips pulled away from hers and her eyes flashed open. The kiss had been sweet, but she wished it had last a little longer. Ben and Lydia were all grins as they gazed at each other, completely oblivious to the people surrounding them. Both of them hoping that wouldn't be the last of their kisses.

~*~ End Flashback~*~

Lydia was knocked out of her reverie by someone sitting down on the bench beside her, calling for her attention. She shook her head, bringing herself back to the present time before she looked at the person beside her. It was a rather burly man with beard and a cap with a feather in it. Lydia had never seen him before, so she eyed him curiously.

"Mind if I sit here for a spell?" the man asked. Lydia simply nodded her head before scooting a little closer to the edge of the bench. The man nodded his head and took a swig of amber liquid. "And who might you be lass?"

She eyed the man for a moment before answering, "Lydia Woodhull."

"Ah, so you're The Jewel of Setauket?"

Lydia's brow furrowed. "Pardon me?"

"The Jewel of Setauket. I can see now that the name is rightly deserved. Men all over York City know of you, lass."

Lydia wanted to groan, but she knew that it wouldn't be polite to do so. No doubt it was her father's doing that she was known throughout York City as such. Instead, she sat a little straight and asked, "And who might you be?"

"Robert Rogers, Queen's Rangers." The man gave a slight bow from where he sat beside her.

After nodding her head in acknowledgement, Lydia asked, "What brings you to Setauket, sir?"

The man leaned in a little closer to her. "I'm looking for one of Washington's men, a dragoon. The only one to manage to survive and escape. But never fear lass, I managed to get a piece of him with a shot. Through the shoulder, if I'm not mistaken."

Lydia's eyes widened in horror as her heart began to race. Shoulder? She had a sinking feeling that this Robert Rogers was talking about Ben. Rogers seemed to notice her discomfort, but he thought it for other reasons. "Don't you worry, lass. I'll get him. Robert Rogers always gets his man. A trip to Setauket was necessary to piece things together."

She nodded her head, hoping that this time the man was wrong. That he wouldn't get his man. That he wouldn't get Ben. But then again, this was a war and the Rangers and Rebels were on opposite sides of it. He then asked, "Might you point me in the direction of your father? I need to have a word." Lydia pointed him in the direction she had last seen her father. Robert Rogers stood and gave a little bow before walking away, leaving Lydia with her thoughts swirling.

She wasn't sure whether to be angry at Ben for not telling her the famed Robert Rogers was the one that shot him or whether to be terrified for him. Both. She was both. Needing some air, away from all the people, Lydia stood up and walked to the outskirts of the people. Then she found herself wandering further, unaware that someone was following her.

As if almost in a trance, Lydia ended up at the tree with her and Ben's initials carved into it. She fell to her knees in front of it and started to pray for Ben. Praying for what seemed like a long time, she finally unfolded her hands and opened her eyes. They took a few moments to adjust to the darkness before she sat down and turned to face the water. It looked eerily calm, reflecting the night sky.

Lydia sat there watching the stars. She and Ben used to sit in this very spot watching the stars, sharing their hopes and dreams of a future with the other. Absently, she felt in the hollow of the tree, not expecting there to be anything, but she was pleasantly surprised to find that there was a letter. Her heart skipped a beat as she quickly snatched the letter and opened it. It was from Ben. It wasn't a long letter, but it was a letter nonetheless. It was hard to read the letter in the darkness. She tilted it, to allow the moon to give some light to the letter when a twig snapped.

Almost immediately, Lydia froze. "Who's there?" she whispered. There was a moment of silence as a figure dressed in a red coat came into view. Her heart began to beat rapidly.

"I'm sorry. I did not wish to startle you," Ensign Baker apologised with both his hands in the air in defence. "I-I just did not wish to see anyone harm you so I followed you to be safe."

After exhaling a breath, she hadn't realised she had been holding, Lydia crumpled her letter so that Ensign Baker couldn't see it. She then got to her feet. "That-that was..." Lydia paused for a moment to catch her breath. "That was very kind of you, sir, but unnecessary."

"I-I hear the way the men talk about you. I had to be sure."

His words made her feel uncomfortable. The only man she had ever suspected was Simcoe, and he was gone, but hearing Ensign Baker's words led her to believe that there were more men with certain inclinations and that didn't bode well for her. Lydia clutched the letter in her hand tightly, not wanting Ensign Baker to see it. She then brushed the leaves from her gown and blew a stray tendril of hair from her face. "Then I thank you, Ensign Baker," Lydia said. "Now, would you mind escorting me back to the bonfire?"

"It would be an honour, Miss Woodhull."

Once they reached the bonfire again, it seemed as if no one had noted their absence, for which she was grateful. The last thing she needed was rumours to be spread about her and Ensign Baker. Although, it might make for a temporary cover for still ongoing relationship with Ben. But that would require more thought.

So, Lydia found her way back to the bench she had previously occupied. Occasionally looking over her shoulder, she could see how closely she was being watched by the menfolk. Perhaps, Ensign Baker had a point and it made her feel rather uncomfortable. She would certainly need to keep a better eye on things. Maybe it wouldn't be a bad thing to form a friendship with Ensign Baker, who seemed honourable enough. But she hated the thought of leading him on, knowing that there could never be anything between the two of them.

Eventually, her father joined her. The smell of ale was on his breath as he sat down beside her. But Lydia didn't care. She rested her head against his shoulder. Richard Woodhull might be a lot of things, but he was her father and when it came down to it, she trusted that he had her best interests at heart. He began to babble on about something in the tavern with Abe and Robert Rogers, but she found unable to pay much attention as her eyelids grew droopy. Next thing she knew, she was asleep against her father.

After rambling on for some time, Richard finally realised that his daughter had fallen asleep. He smiled to himself remembering the last time she had fallen asleep at one of these gatherings as a child. While Lydia was practically a woman, he could still see his little girl when he looked at her. Richard smiled and gently kissed the top of his daughter's head. But the fact of the matter was, that she needed a husband, someone to take care of her, and he planned on taking her to York City in order to resolve that very matter.

Author's note: Sorry it's been awhile, friends. Real life has gotten very hectic. But thank you for continuing on this journey with me. This one is a little longer for y'all and two flashbacks to hopefully make up for some of the lack of posting. I'm hoping to be able to post again sooner, but now that I say that...haha. Thank you to nixdragon for beta-ing and for really helping me push through things to get this written. Love you! Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed.

Normally, this is where I respond to reviews, but I want to get this out soon for y'all and it's been so long since I updated. So to my reviewers, I will respond to the reviews next chapter and I super enjoy getting them. They really make my day! Love ya!

(If you wanna hear what I envisioned Lyddie sounding like when she sings (she sounds like me) I recorded the song and it's on my Tumblr. missjanuarylily)