John considers this for a moment. He could keep being stubborn, and just not talk or interact with her altogether. He could run, when it was less dangerous, but then... where would he go? He wasn't married, he hadn't left a girl behind. The army would not take him back, and there would be no pension. It would difficult for a runaway slave to find work, even if he was an adept doctor.

So, finally, he sighed, then shook her hand. Briefly.

"So why me?" he asked bluntly. "You don't need a doctor. I'm 'damaged goods.' "