The Sword

James saw the sword locked behind a glass case. The blade was long and sharp. He tried to imagine how the sword might have been used in battle. Did a soldier hold it high and shout in victory? Did the blade ever clash against other enemy swords? Clink. James jumped. The museum tour guide had dropped his key. “Excuse me,” the guide said as he picked up the key and opened a case across the room. “Here is a replica of a cannon ball. I’ll help each of you hold it. You’ll see how heavy it is.”...