The Mockingbird's Ballad

"Parson?" 'Parson' sounds odd. "Anyway, Parson, you've got to come home with us. Mama Bear's and Mother's cooking sure is favored by the Methodists. I'll bet you all, what is it, Universals, will find it right tasty, too," Alex gushed.

"Universal-ist," Solon gently corrected his excited former bugler with a smile. "I couldn't impose, A. Besides, I got to be on the stage to Pulaski to catch the L & N 6:15 passenger train. I'm due in Montgomery Monday night. Mighty kind of you, but, well, I really need to keep my schedule. I've got folks expecting me in Montgomery. Several faithful are trying to revive their dormant church."

Lou found her courage, "Parson Stevenson. Sir, you'll be back this way?" Her brown eyes connected with his blue ones. She was out of hiding - letting her spirit be open to him. Her heart demanded it.

"Why yes, Miss Fields. It is 'Miss' Fields?" Solon asked of the once quiet and talented boy farrier now a young and not unattractive woman.

"Yes it's 'Miss' Fields," Alex informed Solon. He giggled and made eyes at Lou.

She ignored her silly brother and said, "Well then, you plan on stopping up this way long enough for a good farm meal when you next come through. It'll be a bit better than the vittles we 'didn't' have in the army." She offered a small smile at her attempt at humor and her brown eyes shined warmth. The smile and beautiful brown eyes took in the warrior turned preacher.

Solon visited Lou's eyes and said, "Why yes, yes Miss Fields . . . and Alex. I'd like that. Might be a few months, February or March, before I come this way again. It all depends on how my Alabama travels go."

"That will be fine." Lou was now more comfortable with the situation and her confidence directed her words. "Write us in care of the postmaster, Dellrose, Tennessee when you'll be back and can share in our hospitality."

"Miss Fields, I will do that. Yes, Ma'am. I surely will."