They Laughed When She Inherited a Ruined Cabin and a “Breathing” Cave—But That Place Would Keep Her Warm When Nothing Else Could

12, 1867. Arrived at Mercy Gap. Purchased the tract at auction for $9. The auctioneer laughed when I paid. He said I had bought exactly $9 worth of nothing. I do not think he is wrong, but there is a cave here, and I have questions about caves.

I sat on the floor of the cabin with the book in my hands and read until the light failed. Silas Boon Ren continue reading …