Jonathon Carver, a young Puritan school teacher, meets handsome Nathaniel Morgan, master cooper. He comes to recognize the longings he's had all his life as desire for the love of another man, and Nathaniel provides that love.<br><br>Their love must be carefully guarded, as they live in Colonial America during a time of the call to Awakening of the Puritan spirit. Knowing the penalty for their love is dire, they strive to keep their affair secret.<br><br>Desperate for a way to resolve their situation, they devise a bold plan which could free them to be together. But can their love for one another overcome the structure of the society in which they live? Or will they be destined to forego fulfillment of their desire and go their separate ways?

Awakening

“Good, good,” said the Reverend Matheson.


He rose and Jonathan did as well. He concluded the interview was now over. The minister came round the desk and, placing a hand on the younger man’s shoulder, ushered him to the door.


He walked back down the hallway to the rear entrance. He did not see Mrs. Matheson to take his leave so he let himself out into the yard. Walking around the side of the meetinghouse, his mind swirled with thought: He might not lose Nathaniel after all.But, he was becoming genuinely fond of Rebecca. He loved Nathaniel. Could he endure the public humiliation of being declared unable to consummate the marriage?


“Nathaniel,” he spoke to the wind. “Please come to the school tonight! Please!”


Chapter 22