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describe Cassian’s relationship with the minister. On Douglas’ latest visit, he initiated conversation about it with the Reverend.
    “Reverend, I hear you and Lelaheo are at odds.”
    “His name is Cassian Harkness now,” the cleric corrected curtly, making his usual dismissive gesture with his hand. “I have given him a Christian name. Yes, he resists authority. Bible lessons everyday and he still clings to that absurd story of the Creation that his people believe in. That tale of Sky-world, Sky-woman and the most incredible
    one, the creation of Earth upon a turtle’s back! He must learn humility.” He screwed his face up as if a bad smell wafted past him. “If he does not, how will he, or for that matter, Kindred and Joshua, function in civilized society if they cannot see logic and obey?” He
    looked at the doctor, a hint of annoyance lingering in his eyes. “I have my work carved out for me. But my path is clear. God has chosen me to lead these … lost souls, and I shall.” The cleric stopped and inhaled a deep, self-satisfied breath.
    Douglas’ eyebrows shot up in amazement and anger.
    “Logic? Lost souls? ” remarked Doctor Twain. “I beg to differ. Lelaheo’s belief in how the world was created is no more absurd or logical than yours. As for your selection as their leader, God has not chosen you to lead these children anywhere.” His timbre was so ominous, he startled himself and cleared his throat slightly.
    “Doctor Twain, your job is to heal, mine is to save and to set an example,” Reverend Harkness insisted shrilly, puffing out his chest at the insult.
    The doctor chuckled low. He regarded the reverend with a sudden dislike. “I had forgotten why I have avoided following the tenets of any established religion. Thank you for reminding me. Save and lead, indeed! Where does the beating of those children fit into that mission?”
    Harkness straightened his shoulders, pulling his carriage erect. “Doctor Twain, you are overstepping your bounds ....”
    “No, Reverend, I am not. You have. In fact, I am taking that child home with me. Today.”
    The doctor stomped past the cleric and walked into the hallway. He trod the narrow staircase leading to an attic room. He knocked and entered. Lelaheo was on his knees in a corner of the cramped, damp space. The boy looked around at his visitor.
    “Doctor Twain! Shekóli ! Hello!” strained the boy, his voice almost a cry.
    “ Shekóli , Leloheo! Boy, would you like to come live at Twainhaven?”
    Joy danced in Lelaheo’s black eyes, but abated some when the scowling reverend loomed behind the doctor in the doorway. Doctor Twain sensed the man behind him. “Pay him no mind, boy. Do you want to come live with us? Yes or no?”
    Lelaheo got to his feet, and strolled directly to his bundle of personal belongings on a chair by a tiny window. He hoisted the pack over his shoulder and ambled over to Douglas.
    “Yes, Doctor, yes. I am ready.”
    “Come, then … Lelaheo.” Douglas wrapped his arm around the boy’s shoulder and guided him out the door. “I have a nice, cheerful room waiting for you.”
    “Doctor, Doctor, you cannot just come in here and take that boy.”
    “I can and I have. You, Reverend, have one less to save and lead. Good day.”
    Once outside, the doctor helped Lelaheo with his possessions and they climbed up onto his horse. As they trotted away, Lelaheo shifted in the saddle for a parting view of Harkness.
    “You are kidnapping him,” he yelled, standing in the vicarage’s doorway, shaking his fist. “What will I tell his people, Doctor?”
    “That I delivered him,” Douglas retorted over his shoulder.
    ****
    Lelaheo arrived at Twainhaven Hall to an impromptu welcoming committee.
    Joshua ran out first. “Lelaheo, you visiting?” he asked, taking the reins from Dr. Twain as the pair dismounted.
    “I am staying,” replied the smiling boy.
    Rozina bustled out the front door. “Stan’? Iz dat right, Doctah