For the next 4 weeks, Major Tremaine never seemed to be out of his uniform. In addition, all his fears and concerns were coming true. General Burgoyne predicted the Army would be Fort Edward in 3 or 4 days. He said this on July 10 in the heady days after the fall of Ticonderoga and the small victory at Hubbardton. It was now Aug. 5 and they were finally in view of the fort's ruins. The road that Major Skene guaranteed was suitable turned out to be a nightmare. The rebels dropped trees blocking the way, dammed streams to flood low lands, and destroyed bridges across each one. Every mile needed to be repaired, widened or rebuilt. The rebels also set up ambushes and harassing fire, disrupting the work groups and delaying progress. Soon there was more infantry in the woods protecting the workers than actual workers.
The General claimed he couldn't be everywhere so he ordered Jeffrey to be his eyes and ears and report back on the progress made. So every morning he made his way down the road to be with the work crew and every evening returned with the day's report. Burgoyne remained behind at Skenesboro with the main Army and small detachments were spread out along the road. As the work progressed, the ride became longer and longer and his time in the saddle more tiring.
One particular time he returned late and went straight to the General's HQ. Burgoyne received him in his dressing gown. He was obviously occupied when Jeffrey reported.
"This better be quick, Major!" the General snapped at him.
From where Jeffrey was standing, he could see the reason. The door was left ajar and there on the bed laid Mrs. Rousseau. Only partially covered by a sheet, she rested on her elbow. Her blonde hair only covered one of her large breasts and just barely. She made no effort to cover herself when she realized that Jeffrey could see her. In fact she smiled at him.
At that moment Jeffrey hated everything about the Army. When asked his opinion back in England, he said the Army needed to cut its baggage and move fast. Instead there were wives, children, mistresses, and four post beds. He wanted to damn the General as Burgoyne slept in a fine bed with a warm, willingly woman and ate fine food. Most of all Jeffrey hated the General because of his failures it kept him from Katrina.
Since the night she agreed to marry him they hadn't been together alone for more than an hour. It was true what they said about absence makes the heart grow fonder. He found himself day dreaming about her, remembering her voice, her kisses, the softness of her skin. He dreamed of more. So much so it almost cost him his life.
One hot afternoon he sat on his horse on the British skirmish line. They had just repulsed a brisk attack and things were settling down. Major Acland who was in charge assured him that the situation was under control and there was no need for alarm. As Acland rode away, Jeffrey let his mind wander. He was exhausted so he closed his eyes for a brief moment.
A voice called out in alarm. "Sir!"
Jeffrey jerked and pulled on the reins of his horse. He felt the wind of a passing bullet as it sped by his cheek. He then heard the crack of the gun.
"That was a close'un, Sir. Begging the Major's pardon," the corporal said.
Jeffrey looked down at the soldier and smiled. "Yes, Corporal Ayres, a little too close. Carry on." He turned the horse's head and rode off.
Corporal Ayres smiled and scratched his chin. "He's a cool one, he is," he said to the private standing next to him. "And how he'd know my name?"
Now he stood before General Burgoyne making a meaningless report.
"The crew cleared and widened about 2 miles of road, sir. They also rebuilt 2 bridges. We reached Fort Anne today with the light infantry under Major Acland and drove off a rebel detachment. There is a large clearing around the ruins, sir and Major Acland has made camp there, sir."
"How is the land beyond? And the road?"
"The land is heavily wooded south of the ruins. The road is in the same condition as it was, sir. There is another road that heads to the west, towards Lake George. It is in better condition, sir."
"What are you saying, Major?"
"Nothing, sir."
At that moment a voice called from the other room. "Johnny, are you ever coming back to bed?"
The General looked at the door then Jeffrey. "I want better results tomorrow, Major. Good night." With that he left Jeffrey standing in the hallway and slammed the door shut.
Jeffrey was exhausted. He was hot, thirsty, and just wore out. He knew he should go to his room and sleep but not tonight. He had to see Katrina.
It was a full moon so he easily made his way to the Baron's HQ. He entered it through the backdoor. Katrina's room was on the ground floor in the back so he didn't have to walk far. The door was open a small amount so he quietly pushed it open. He entered slowly. He could see Katrina from the faint light of a small candle. Suddenly he realized that by being here he could easily frighten her. He stood in the middle of the room and whispered, "Katrina, its me, Jeffrey."
She sat up quickly, suddenly awake. "Jeffrey!"
"Yes, its me."
She jumped from the bed and flew to him. Wrapping her arms around him, she hugged him tight. He could feel her softness through her flimsy nightgown. He kissed her and she held him tighter.
Stepping back, she said, "You look exhausted. Here sit on the bed." As he did, she helped him remove his coat and waistcoat. As she bent down to help remove his boots, Jeffrey could see her full breasts gently sway. God, how he wanted to touch them!
She stood up. "Now lie back. I'll get some cool water and a cloth to wipe your face and hands." She turned for pitcher and basin.
Jeffrey lay back on to the pillow. "It feels good," he thought.
Katrina returned with the water and cloth. She looked down on his face. His eyes were closed and he was quietly breathing. She smiled and climbed in next to him. She placed her arm across his chest and rested her head on his shoulder. She gave a contented sigh as she closed her eyes.
"Gutenmorgen meine Leibe," Katrina said kissing his forehead.
