Chapter 16

“I wish we did,” she said, “but we just haven’t had the budget for that.”

“How about the State Archives in Atlanta?” Carlton said.

“I haven’t been up there in years, but they’d also be a good place to look. They have a huge collection of Civil War material.”

“Thanks,” Carlton said. “Is Mrs. Pendergrass in?”

“She surely is, and her door is open, so go right on in.”

“Thanks, and why don’t you join us?” Carlton said. “You might want to hear what I have to say.”

They went into the office, and Mrs. Pendergrass looked up from the document she was studying.

“Good morning, Mrs. Pendergrass,” Carlton said. “I believe you’re acquainted with my friend Eric.”

“Good morning,” she said, “and of course I am. I’ve known Dr. Slade most of his life.”

“Please, Mrs. Pendergrass, can’t you call me Eric like you used to do when I was a boy?”