Chapter 23, The Redbud Tree Summary

Lucy excuses herself from Lieutenant Chavis, and she and Jeff go around to the side of the building. Behind a redbud tree they embrace and kiss passionately. With Lucy, Jeff forgets about the war, Clardy, the repeating rifles, and returning to the Union lines. Lucy thinks Jeff now fights on the side of the rebels because his uniform reflects the possibility. Jeff's heart sinks as he explains everything to her. She attempts to get him to stay on their side. He has to make his decision all over again. Through much emotional turmoil, Jeff still decides to go back to Fort Gibson. Jeff tells Lucy he wants to marry her and spend forever together, but he now sees that it is impossible. Lucy's fierce pride and violent patriotism cause her to act like she can easily let...