Mr. Headman had just raised his staff to deliver the killing blow when there came from downstairs the shrill and unnerving voice of Rebecca Headman, Ted’s long-suffering mother.
"Ted! Jacob! Deacon Witherspoon, and the Elders are here. Come pay your respects."
Mr. Headman reluctantly lowered the staff and glared menacingly at his son. Once more, vengeance had eluded him.
"Bathe yourself and dress those wounds," he ordered, curtly. "I’ll not have you humiliate your Mother and I in front of the clergy."
Ted just groaned.
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