Here’s a sample from a recent photo session featuring model Kyle Hall posing with Clydesdale Betty in Great Run. The photos serve as references for a painting (and probably a sculpture, too) I’ve had in mind for one of my favorite scenes from Chapter 39: ‘Pope’s Camp’ in “House Key”. The location of the scene, set in 1863, is photographed here on what was once General Pope’s actual camp. Special thanks to @harneyjodielove for letting us use the beautiful “beach” on their property, and to Rebecca Evans for her patience and expert assistance during the shoot.
Here’s a passage from Chapter 39: “King finally stopped at a familiar stream, letting Spade gulp down a few long sips of water. He was thirsty, too, but he wouldn’t dismount until he found Mosby. His body was tired and his muscles sore from riding without the comfort of a saddle or stirrups. Fortunately, Spade’s back was wide and his stride comfortable; a great, rolling motion that was rhythmic like a lullaby. Tiredness would overtake him easily if he didn’t stay alert.”
Further along: “And now, both men faced one another. King knew well it would be easy and expeditious for Mosby to dispatch him into the next world. Once he delivered the message of Glennfinch MacRae’s whereabouts and the news of his impeding demise, there would be little reason to let him live. But he also recognized in Mosby a sense of honor great enough to match the ruthlessness for which he was well known. A risk either way.”
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