<p>When a promise with a strange and mysterious facet behind it is made in the life of gifted nine-year-old Douglas Southerland, he is propelled into making choices he must deal with, and an unusually odd quest begins that lasts the rest of his life.</p><p>Spanning eight decades, <em>The Promise</em> is the story of Douglas&rsquo;s first-class life from the 1890s to 1970. While entwined with many historical facts, how does Douglas deal with several maritime tragedies, espionage, sabotage, attempted murders, and a kidnapping, while living at home, and, later, when raising his own family?</p><p>What effects will his choices have on others? Who or what will mentor him, to guide his choices?</p><p>What are the pros or cons of each choice? Douglas finds he asks and, in some cases, must wait for answers to his quest to solve his own personal mystery.</p>