We reached Pentrich, another important location in Noble, late in the afternoon, missing any chance to walk along the historical markers of England’s “last armed rebellion.” The quiet charm of this tiny village was everywhere in evidence, and it was easy to believe that the town has not changed much over the centuries, earning its sad place in English history through the treachery of powerful men rather than any lack of loyalty to the government.

If you stay with me through our final stop (where else but the Erie Canal in upstate New York?), I will reveal some of what comes next.