Chapter 14: On deck.

March 16, 1624

The past month Cisco was met with many challenges from the villagers. He was confronted by other landowners who did not feel the same as he did in managing the land. He is exhausted by the continuous strain, but I have faith in him and know he will do the best for us and our people.

He learns fast and with Franco guiding him I know he can only succeed. He is now an accomplish rider and he and Furor are seen all over the estate, dashing over the plains at breakneck speed. Furor’s enthusiasm is contagious. The other horses, especially Rosa-Lee’s pony, are a struggle to contain in the stable.

The baby is growing fast, and I struggle to walk properly. This is much to Cisco’s delight, but he demands that I rest as often as possible. He even gave the staff instructions to keep a close eye on me when he is not here. I miss him when he leaves in the mornings to do his work but the reunion at night makes up for it.