The revolutionary War wages on, greatly affecting the lives of Hope and her family. But when Hope’s much-missed brother and father return, relief sets in, if only for a short while.

		Thursday, the 22nd of May, 1777 A lady came to our door this afternoon to buy meat pies for her family. She paid with paper money. After she left Papa let out a happy yell. He showed me the two-dollar note. ‘Twas square and fit in my palm. And ‘twas newly printed with the words "United States of North America." No longer will our money say "United Colonies" because no longer do we belong to England. "Day by day we are declaring our independence," Papa said. "No matter what King George and his generals say. If only our brave lads continue to fight."