The Jackal's Mistress

Libby shoots and kills the second man when he attempts to take her gun. She and Joseph pull the bodies deep into the forest on the side of the turnpike. They pick up the spent bullet casings, rub the blood from the dirt, and plan to set the horses loose up the road. They will hide the guns and pick them up on the return trip—Joseph’s idea. Libby stashes the bullets and powder as well.

Around 12:30 pm, they near Harper’s Ferry. Two “pickers” (guards) accost them. Libby and Joseph convince the guards to let them through based on the evidence of the letters. Colonel Duffy meets with them, along with Captain McKenna, a Vermonter who knows Weybridge. When asked for proof not mentioned in the letters, Libby gives the ages of Weybridge’s sons and that he teaches Shakespeare. Joseph adds that Weybridge mentioned Eustis Marsh. Convinced, Duffy allows Libby to collect what she needs from their storehouse. They indicate they will ask about Peter, though McKenna scoffs at the notion.

Weybridge hears Jubilee turning away an officer named Morgan, who is asking about a Yankee soldier. Later, Sally brings him chicken broth and asks if he would like to read, perhaps her Bible.