“This is what takes a lifetime,” he said. “It is simply this: be a disciple of the Master. How that is accomplished is quite simple really. Extremely difficult… yet simple. Read the four Gospels of the New Testament. Read them over and over and over. Immerse yourself in them. And as you do… do whatever Jesus tells you to do.

“Every word that proceeds out of his mouth, as recorded in the Gospels, is meant for us to heed and obey. That’s all there is to it—after that moment comes when he bids you to follow, and after you make the decision to be his disciple, all you must do is obey his every word and teaching.

“That’s what a disciple does—he obeys his master.”

56 Parting

56

Parting

The mood at breakfast the following morning was quiet and subdued.

The realization had deepened upon them all through the night that a painful parting was at hand. Few words were spoken. These were times that tested the mettle of character and the fiber of relationship. Everything that needed to be said had been said.

“It is with a heavy heart that I say it, Baron,” said Thaddeus when the meal had been completed and they had been sitting for some time in silence, “but we must presently be on our way.”

Baron von Dortmann nodded gravely.

Suddenly Sabina rose from her chair, burst into tears, and ran from the room.

The other four sat in awkward silence a moment more, then Marion began to rise to follow her. The baron gently placed a hand on her arm and glanced at her with a barely perceptible shake of the head. Marion resumed her seat.

It was Matthew who got out of his chair and left the room. The baron let him go, saying nothing. All three parents sensed that a special bond had been developing for some time between their son and daughter. Though it seemed destined to be torn asunder by the tragedy of war, the baron knew that this moment with his daughter belonged to Matthew, not to himself or his wife.

Matthew went first to his room, then to find Sabina. He made his way along the now-familiar corridors, heavy of heart. He knew where she would be.

He stepped out onto the balcony and saw Sabina at the far end, standing at the edge of the battlement, looking over the fields.

Slowly he approached, his hands held behind him.

She sensed his presence, but kept her back turned. Matthew knew she was still crying, though softly now.

“I’ve decided to stay,” she said after a moment, her voice full of tears. “I couldn’t possibly—”

“I know,” said Matthew.

“But how? How could you know? I only just came to the decision a minute ago.”

“I guess I just had a feeling. Maybe it’s because you’re so much like your father.”

“I could never leave them,” said Sabina, “no matter what happens.”