Each of these kind and hardworking children came to me in a different way, but they are all mine.

She was hurt, far worse than I will ever be. And you try to convince me, and yourself, that she would be flattered by such an experience!” Lisbeth said with contempt. “Well, I do not believe you, Mother! She was not flattered. She was in pain. That is why I will be moving to Ohio, a free state, where I will not have to be a part of the evil of slavery.

They had believed they would marry progressive thinkers in Guangzhou – businessmen or scholars – who would be proud to have educated wives with natural feet.

Mattie’s torso with a heavy cloth.

Cholera was a common companion of war – and far more fatal than metal blades or bullets.

Then she said the prayer that started all her midwifing: “Dear Lord, please guide me in gettin’ this baby born and savin’ this precious woman’s life.

Those two women bore precious children that I had the honor of raising. Thank you.

Every time I see the moon, I shall send you a blessing, knowing the same moon will soon shine my blessing down upon you.

May I come with you to Ohio? As your wife? I need a husband. You are not engaged. We both enjoy Shakespeare.

Education was a luxury not prioritized in a time of war and famine.