Esperanza has delivered her son safely, though she is still weak so Rebecca helps care for her. Despite her husband's opposition, the whole family goes to San Antonio. Lucinda's mother, meanwhile, grows worried about her brother Isaac and his pregnant wife Esperanza, who is due any moment. In January 1836, Willis returns to San Antonio as he feels that the real war is not over yet. Willis returns in time to celebrate Christmas with his family. Finally on December 11, they learn that the siege was successful and now many believe the war to be over. Days pass by slowly as the Lawrence family wait for news about Willis. Willis decides to join the Texian forces and heads to San Antonio. A battle occurs on October 2, resulting in a Mexico defeat. They refuse and an army rallies behind Gonzales. Later in September, Mexico demands that Gonzales return a cannon they had loaned the town. He develops a fever, but recovers in a few days. In September 1835, her father hurts his leg badly in an accident. Lucinda's father opposes war of any kind, which often leads to arguments with his son. Willis believes Mexico is treating Texas unfairly and wants to go to war. Years earlier, she emigrated to Gonzales, Texas with her parents Aaron and Rebecca, and siblings Willis, Lemuel, and Green. Thirteen-year-old Lucinda Lawrence receives a diary for her birthday. Oh, the shooting and noise have started up again.

If the Texians lose this fight, I may be in my grave this time tomorrow. Who knows when I will have the opportunity again. The noise has stopped, and I am seizing the moment to make my diary entry.

Papa says the scream is the old six-pounder cannon. Then came the pop, pop, pop of rifles in the distance. We were awakened by the most awful shriek. Land o' Goshen! The battle is on! It is just past daybreak and the fog is thick in the woods and hovers over the river. Dedication ' In honor of my great-great-grandparents, Andrew Jackson Loug and Mittie Roe Loug, whose pioneering spirit brought them to the Republic of Texas, and in loving memory of Desla Camp Allison.' Book description ' Friday, October 2, 1835

A Line in the Sand by Sherry Garland