Editing Gates to the Garden:White Springs (section)

====Deliberations====

Silas and Peter agreed to talk with Absolom about his plans, and to talk with Adah as well.  Peter went door to door, checking on people and asking if they were safe, and what they thought of things.  Most people seemed to support Absalom, but some didn't.  The predominant opinion was that he was a strong leader, but perhaps lacking in humility and consideration.

Allen had passed out from inhaling smoke fumes from the fire, but recovered.  Allen and Silas went to talk with Adah.  Adah welcomed them and served herbal infusions, and, after some small talk, Adah came forth and said that she didn't disagree with Leah marrying Absalom.

The Dogs reconvened and went to speak with Absalom.  They asked Brother Absalom about why he wanted to marry Leah, and Absalom said it was because he had worked hard, and would be good to Leah, and because she was beautiful and kind.  Silas asked why Esther would oppose the marriage, and Absalom contended it was because she was old and afraid of being alone.  Peter reminded Steward Absalom that he'd be taking care of Esther as well, and he agreed.

Then came the topic of the soldiers.  Allen proposed holding a feast for them, but Silas disagreed.    The disagreement escalated, with Silas wanting minimum contact with the heathens, and Allen wanting a fairly open contact.  Peter took the view that there should be distance, but with a kindly attitude.  This turned into a rather heated theological disagreement about people of the faith, in which Peter convinced others that they should be friendly but distant.  All agreed to bring food up to the fort for a feast, without any young women coming along.