APRIL 27, 1860

Charity entered the general store intent on getting Luke and Meghan the perfect wedding gift. Ever since the engagement party she had vowed that she'd keep an eye on the young couple and the best way to do that was get in their good graces by buying them a gift. She walked up to the counter with a smile for Simon.

"How do you do?" He said. "Can I help you?"

Charity smiled, "I'd like to purchase a gift for Luke and Meghan."

Simon laughed. "It seems everyone in town has come in here for the same thing. What do you have in mind? I can tell you what's already been purchased if it would help."

"No that won't be necessary. I know exactly what I want."

"All right." Simon waited for her.

"I'd like a bassinet. Nothing too expensive mind you just a regular bassinet."

The shopkeeper�s eyes went wide. "I'm sorry did you say a bassinet?" When Charity nodded he continued. "Well, it's a strange gift for a wedding, but I guess you can never start gathering baby things too early."

"Oh I'm sure they'll need it very soon." Charity saw the interested gleam in the man's eyes. "Of course I'm not one to gossip, but rumor has it that Meghan is with child and that's why the two are marrying."

Simon took the order and Charity's payment. After the woman left he wondered about her statement. Meghan couldn't be pregnant, could she? He shook his head. He didn't believe it, but still he knew rumors always had a grain of truth in them.