Summary

Chapter 27 returns to Hannie’s story. After William has died and been buried, Hannie, Missy, and Juneau are escorted by soldiers to Austin. Elam joins them during the trip and tells Hannie that the leader of the Marston Men is dead. He believes without their leader, the other men will lose faith and the group will fade away. Despite that news, there is a sense of uneasiness among the men and the horses. Hannie keeps Missy’s derringer close.

The wagon is attacked while it is making a difficult crossing over a river. Hannie hears a crack and feels the wagon shudder. Another crack leaves a hole in the canvas. The driver shouts out they are being ambushed and hurries the mules forward. As the shooting continues, Hannie sees Elam and his horse fall over backward.

Hannie prays as she holds Juneau...