Despite their close relationship, there was a slight strain that had developed between the two men. When he first arrived, Kindred had become closely associated with some of the nearby Quakers who lived in their own settlement at Wrightsborough. His own first name was an indication of the influence of these early settlers who were prevented by their faith from taking a human life, a fervent belief that he shared. Neither Kindred nor Ethan had much time for religion, although they shared the undefined religious heritage of their ancestors who had come to the new lands from England and Scotland. With some reluctance, Ethan had been willing to take up arms, but only after he had seen the atrocities committed against their neighbors by some of the renegade Creek braves.

Ethan and Epsey had discussed Kindred’s relationship with Newota. Both of them were younger than the Pratts in age and attitude, they shared an interest in the outdoors, and were fascinated with each other’s culture. During the few times he had been with Newota, Ethan had also been interested in learning about the lifestyle of the Creek families, and was impressed with the young Indian’s woodland skills. Newota was well behaved and respectful, highly complimentary about Ethan’s farming and woodworking skills, and eager to learn as much as possible about the use of a white man’s tools.

There was one concern that troubled Ethan, however, and he and Kindred had previously discussed it in general terms. Only recently had their views diverged. Although Ethan had decided that full independence for the colonies was the best choice, Kindred was still unconvinced that the ultimate goal of the Continental forces should be a separate and independent nation. He seemed certain that reconciliation was possible, once the colonists achieved permanent and legal relief from the punitive taxes imposed on them from London, along with fair representation of the Americans in colonial parliaments.

They were now riding side by side under enormous trees, mostly oaks, pines, poplar, and hickory, with just a few dogwoods and other shade-tolerant species interspersed in the relatively open spaces below the solid canopy of branches. At Ethan’s suggestion, they dismounted to relieve themselves. When they remounted, Ethan decided to clarify the issue that had bothered him.

“Kindred, Sergeant Randolph seemed to doubt your loyalty when I told him you would be going with me. He had overheard one of your conversations in Wrightsborough and didn’t understand some of the things you said.”