Then I made my way to Washington, where I cannot say I was welcomed with open arms. I was questioned several times by Secretary of War Stanton and by several officers in his department. Finally it was decided that, in the interest of national harmony and support of the war effort, it would be best not to pursue and thereby publicize the charges against me. It was stated therefore that since I was now physically incapable of continuing my long and valiant service to my country, I would be honorably discharged and sent home to Cainesville.

My brothers and sisters having died or relinquished their claims on it, I was now the sole owner of the Caine farm. With the help of my Master I soon made it prosper, and engaged in other prosperous business ventures as well. Then in tribute to the one who now ruled my life, I had the old log farmhouse torn down and a new house built, choosing as my model the place where I had first sworn to serve my Master.

I spent many gratifying years in the house, and my Master succored me. He came to me many times there, as he still comes to me. He has insured that I shall never die, and he has made it possible for me to return to the place where you wait for me, Margaret. Even as you desire me, I will come.

The notebook entry ended with that chilling statement. I got out of bed, unlocked the door and went quietly to the storeroom and put the book back where I had found it.

Before returning to my room, I paused by Duff’s door and listened, but I could hear nothing, not even his breathing. I wanted to open the door and see if he was in the room, but I was afraid to do it—afraid maybe to find out that he wasn’t there.

I’m sure I locked my door again. My mind is in such a turmoil lately that I can’t really swear to it. However, I was so nervous at the time that I’m sure I would have been certain to lock the door. Anyway, I then went to the window.

General Caine was standing on the front lawn, closer to the house now than he had been the night before. There was a good bit of moonlight and I could see him even more clearly. His arms were folded and he was staring at me, but there was no malevolence in his expression. I stared back at him for a moment, then pulled the shade down and got into bed.