Nettie had gone to see him in the morning, the newly stitched handkerchief in her hand and a small lunch she'd made for him after service. Having not seen him, she told the woman there with a laugh it was a mistake. He must have left early to see her and they had just missed each other. It wasn't the truth, but she worried. Some old rumors from other towns he'd been in, other strange moments she never commented on. It rumbled deep in her mind and worry crossed her face. How long until some day he wouldn't be there at all, or he'd be found in a ditch?

When she saw him, relief filled her and she came upon him but then she froze. He was clearly injured. "Uncle." She clutched the small package in her hand and moved quicker to him. "Uncle." She wanted to raise her voice but he wouldn't want any attention on him. She wanted to ask if she alright, but clearly not. Her eyes were wide and full of concern.

"Please.. do you.. need a doctor? Or a constable? You look like something.. " A fight? he'd been beaten? There was definitely teeth marks.