MATTIE AND TROY story

It was the summer of 1774 in Nova Scotia. Troy and Mattie leaned against the fence, glad for shade from an old oak tree.

"Do ye think there may be a war? Troy asked. There he said it. Ever since Da uttered the possibility the other day, it was like a worm squirming around inside his shirt.

Then it entered his imagination each night, like a funeral shroud. British troops were restless. And everyone worried the Americans may invade.

"No, not yet," answered Mattie with the sureness of confidence that belittled a child older than her ten years.

Troy did not mind asking the question, since she would be direct with her answer as an arrow from the finest of quivers.

"Besides," she added, "Why do boys always want to talk about war, and other sad things. Let's go fishing, just like you wanted."

Troy thought carefully. Yes, he did wish to go fishing. But he kept worrying about his beloved Da. Would he have to fight, if a war did come? And must his two brothers join the militia?"

"Are you coming, or na" a voice at his side whispered.

Troy turned and looked at Mattie. How could anyone have named her Matilda? he thought. Looking over her shoulders, he could see Holstein cows in the pasture gathering shade under a stand of trees.

The sun was high, and his head felt warm. Yes, he did too wish to go fishing. It was always a joyous occasion, especially with Mattie.

"It is my desire to catch some fish now," he said simply. Indeed, a fanciful expression for a boy of eleven.

Thus ended any further sad thoughts, as the excitement of childhood helped them stroll determinedly to a river overloaded with fish.

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© Richard L. Provencher 2006

Co-authors Richard and Esther Provencher invite you to view their newest novel SOMEONE’S SON written during Richard’s recovery from a stroke, which gob-smacked him in 1999. It is a Young Adult novel dealing with a family crisis. http://www.synergebooks.com/ebook_someonesson.html