THE RAILSPLITTER
It was two months after the flat boat stuck on the dam at New Salem and the day following a quiet election in the village, that Nance Cameron ran over to Rutledge Inn with news of great importance for Ann.
"Long Shanks has arrived," she announced without ceremony.
"Long Shanks?" Ann questioned. "Who is Long Shanks?"
"The giant scarecrow, the big baboon," Nance answered.
"Baboon," Ann repeated. "Nance what are you talking about?"
"My land, Ann Rutledge, have you forgotten the unhinged giant you waved plum blossoms at—the captain of the flat boat who looked like sin, but knew how to use his hat like a gentleman?"