Gaines learned the art of storytelling firsthand in his home because it was filled with visitors who gossiped and told elaborate ghost stories and folk tales. ... One day toward the end of the war, some fleeing confederate soldiers arrive, followed soon after by some union soldiers. While being served water by Jane, one Union soldier named Corporal Brown tells Jane that she will soon be free and can then visit him in Ohio. ... After the soldiers leave, Jane refuses to answer when her mistress calls her "Ticey." ...

• Word Count: 1538
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School