Other settlers related similar sentiments to the party, shaking their hands and clapping them on the backs. "We'll have a pint of ale cooling for each of you," Mr. Applegate said.
"We won't disappoint you," Rodney said.
Prudence waited until everyone else cleared away to approach Rodney one final time. He kissed the top of her head, keeping her at arm's length. "I love you," she said.
"And I, you," he said. "We'll be back soon."
"I know." She stepped back to allow him and the others to set off into the forest. She followed after him a few steps, watching him recede into the trees. When he paused a moment, she hoped he would run back into her arms, but he only waved and then disappeared.
"Your husband is a brave man," Rebecca said. She patted Prudence on the shoulder.
"Yes he is," Prudence said.
"I'm sure everything will work out fine," Rebecca said.
Prudence spun around, her face turning red with anger. "How would you know? He's walking to his death!"
"Nothing will happen-"
"You don't know anything." When Rebecca tried to put a hand on her again, Prudence shoved her away. "It should be your husband out there! If he weren't too feeble he'd do it himself instead of sending Rodney."
"That's quite enough, Mrs. Gooddell," Rebecca said. "Let's get you back to bed and I'll make you some tea."
"I don't want your help!" Prudence stormed away in the direction Rodney had gone. If she hurried, she might catch up to him. There had to be something she could say to make him stay. Or at least he might let her come along.
She blundered through the forest, branches tearing at her clothes. Once she thought she spotted a group of men ahead and called out to them, but they didn't answer and soon disappeared. She plunged on after them deeper into the forest.
After what must have been an hour, she sank down on a log with exhaustion. She looked around her, certain she'd seen this piece of forest twice before. It's no use, she thought. I'm going in circles. She buried her face in her hands, but didn't have the strength even to cry.
A rustling in the brush startled her and raised her hopes at the same time. Rodney had come back for her again! He would take her into his arms and they would run away from this dreadful place forever.
Rodney didn't appear through the brushes. She gasped at the sight of a young boy with red hair and a torn shirt hanging to his knees. "Prudence! I'm so glad to see you," he said.