Milly and Noella gently rustled through the early summer grass together. They held each others hands loosely, and moved on in their solemn errand. They followed a whispering creek to a meadow where several small mounds dotted the sun-warm banks. Noella read the faded markers, but as she read the names, tears came to her eyes in a renewal of pushed-aside grief. Milly knelt by the newest one. As of yet, no stone marked the name of the occupant of the little grave. Surrounding it were other tiny sepulchers-- Tommy, Destiny, Nehemiah, and many others.

"Nine," Milly breathed. "So many!"

Noella caught her breath. "I know," she mournfully intoned. Neither girl said anything many minutes. "I feel so empty." Another long pause. "I hurt most when we sit down to supper, and though everyone is really there, I feel as if these nine are missing, missing, never to be reclaimed till death takes me as well. So silent, so cold. The silent nine."

Noella broke down in racking sobs, and Milly lead her away, both girls with heavy hearts.

Based on a true story, and dedicated to Jackie L., mother of Baby L., and of all the silent nine. Gerich meleth nin!