About this story
Hermie takes you in without hesitation; her sister Bertha's welcome comes wrapped around a fear she will not name, from the moment she hears whose cousin sent you. That night an unknown hand fits a key to your locked door from outside, and by morning Bertha wants you gone, and cannot say why.
How it opens
War, speculation, and marriage had left you heir only to the Durgan name and its losses.
You climbed from Deer Cove toward a mica prospect owned by your wealthier cousin.
Adam DurganMarse Neil, the mine may pay, but there is nowhere on Deer to lodge except the summit ladies.
Find me two reliable workers first; I will ask no household to receive me unwillingly.
Adam DurganMiss Hermie understands money, while Miss Birdie understands why money is not everything.
Choose
Do they need income or merely company?
Has General Blount warned them I am coming?