He enclosed for us a copy of Common Sense, by Mr. Thomas Paine, an Englishman, which he bought for two shillings. Mr. Paine states that no government that is just can fail to defend the idea that all humanity is entitled to the equality of rights. He is a brilliant man, and I am certain that the Colonies’ battle for Independence shall soon draw our men of Virginia into its fold. The militias have formed, and all are eager to fight the Crown. I have written to Angus and advised him of the happenings here on the Ridge. He will meet Robert at the Lady Meg in Richmond. Ian is now back safe with us, and for that I am thankful. It seems that he may not lose his eye after all, although he does have a most frightening scar above it. We have not seen the cad Wayne Sinclair since the day Miss Clark left us, and Robert is angry that he has been unable to locate her. I suspect Mr. Sinclair is now long gone, but I am still fearful that he may someday return. I pray that, wherever Miss Clark is, that she is safe from his clutches.
