The Effects of Henry's Cage. Roberta's Story. Book two.

By Bernadette Joyce

Roberta Cameron knew from the way her aunt treated her that a disreputable mystery surrounded her birth. She didn't feel free. This mystery trapped her. Eventually she found the strength to escape and discovered the world had much to offer. Finally she received the acceptance, love and happiness she craved, only to find the mystery emerged and threatened to destroy the happiness of the ones she held most dearly. This time there was no escape, she must find the truth.

Roberta's story is set in New Zealand in the 1890's. This story embraces the time Roberta spent in Nelson, Dunedin, Kaitangata and New Plymouth. Kaitangata is a small South Otago coal-mining town, situated on the east-coast of New Zealand. New Plymouth is a North Island town situated near Parahaka. New Zealand's history is diverse in that the early settlers set about making this place be similar from where they came. The Maori parted from their land found the transition hard. This is a story of betrayal, mystery, love, romance and adventure.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Bernadette Joyce
• Release date: Jul 3, 2018
• ISBN: 9780473371760

Bernadette Joyce

I love books. I love reading. I love history. I had a dream that one day I would write a novel. One wet cold afternoon, I started, the words came and I was on my way. The Effects of Henrys Cage. Elean Story. (Book one) was born. (Book two) Roberta Story is near completion. My dream fulfilled, had opened the door to the pleasure of writing.

Book preview

The Effects of HENRY’S CAGE

Book Two: Roberta’s Story.

Bernadette Joyce

Copyright @ 2016 Bernadette Joyce

All Rights reserved.

IBSN: 978-0-473-37176-0

DEDICATION

To my supportive husband Bill who

walked this journey with me.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

To P.D.R. Lindsay for her wise counsel, encouragement and enthusiasm.

To Lynette Melville for a brilliant cover design, her time and support.

To Russell Hendry for giving of his time freely to edit Roberta’s Story.

Thank you all for being such a wonderful support team.

I value your warmth and friendship.

NOTE

The characters in this book are fictitious, any similarity to real persons living or deceased, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

CONTENTS

Title

Dedication

Acknowledgement

Note

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Author’s Note

Glossary

More Books from the Author

Chapter One

1st September 1868.

Albert stood straight and stiff, facing the wharf. His arm encircled his wife, Rosemary. They stood by the rail on the main deck of their immigrant ship. It was the ‘Larkin’ and it would take them to New Zealand. The passengers’ gang-plank had been withdrawn for some time. Albert fidgeted. He wondered what was causing the delay. His gazed wandered over the massive crowd filling the wharf. Some waved, others talked in groups, and some stared glumly up at the ship. He wanted to blot out the scene before him. Sadness gripped him as his eyes alighted on his brother Frederick. Who is responsible for his unhappiness? I stopped Rosemary from interfering between Elean and Frederick. So who else has done this appalling thing? Many times in their life Albert and Frederick had shared disappointment, but never had Albert witnessed the depth of despair that clung to his brother.

Next to his brother his mother-in-law tottered against her husband, weeping copiously into her handkerchief. Albert tapped his foot. How much longer do I have to stand and stare at that woman who has made my life impossible these last weeks? Just look at Mama-in-law, so full of resentment, so full of self. Could she not think of her daughter, or of us leaving for a change? His mood plummeted. He faced the fact that his wife of only four weeks was very like her mother. Why didn’t I see it before? He turned his gaze towards Elean. Poor Elean the unloved sister. Compassion flooded through him. He yearned to take her into his arms, and assure her he would make it right, but the damage had been done. He had heard Rosemary and her mother scheming to part Frederick and Elean. He realised his wife could be conniving and spiteful. He worried about his marriage and their future together.

He had chided Rosemary about her meddling, asked her to refrain from interfering in others’ happiness.

She stamped her foot and yelled. A display of temper he had not witnessed in his wife before. It’s not fair. I’ve looked after Mama while Elean enjoyed herself. When people came to the house, they all talked to her, including you. It makes me angry, everyone loved Elean. Well, I’ve got you, Albert, and she doesn’t need to think she can have your brother.

Albert, disappointed, had turned away in despair.

Rosemary noticed Albert watch his brother look sadly at Elean. She frowned and tugged at his arm.

Albert ignored her, puzzling out what might have happened to spoil his brother’s happiness. Frederick was so sure she felt as he did. So what happened? Frederick was too upset to talk and I was too busy with preparations and coping with the intrusions of Mama-in-law. If only I could live the last fortnight over again.

Look, Albert, we’re moving. Rosemary pointed to where the gap widened between the ship and the wharf. Water swirled, making turbulent whirlpools as the ship was nudged gently away from the wharf. Instant commotion rose from the crowd. People waved frantically. Gradually everyone united and passionately sang ‘Auld Lang Syne.’ The ship shuddered as small steam boats tugged it into the middle of the Clyde. Faces on the wharf became indistinguishable. The sails billowed out and caught the wind. The ship lurched, the bow dipped, it was now facing down the Clyde going towards the sea.

On the wharf, friends and relatives waved and wept. Then an almighty roar from the crowd filled the air.

Passengers sobbed as they left the rails, comforted by the less emotional. The happy squeals of the children, orders shouted to sailors, and the cattle, sheep and chickens protesting at their unfamiliar quarters, created sounds of excited chaos.

Rosemary tried not to show her impatience. Come along Albert, let’s go to the upper deck, we must meet the others. I wonder what our travelling companions will be like?

You may go. I’d prefer to remain here for a while.

You know I can’t do that, what will people think about me wandering around by myself.

Albert didn’t answer. His eyes cold as he looked at her, then he quickly turned away. I can’t understand her, she’s showed no emotion when she parted from her family.

Rosemary felt the blood drain from her face. He must know it was me who spoke to Mr Menzies. I had to approach him. He had been like a father to Albert and Frederick when their parents died. Why else would Albert behave like this to me? But it had to be stopped. Mr Menzies agreed it was a crazy idea that Frederick wanted to transfer from Oxford University to Edinburgh to be near Elean. I can’t understand Albert, all this talk about them being in love. I suppose he thinks that’s what marriage is about. Well, it’s not. Securing a good future for oneself is far more important.

Rosemary suppressed the urge to stamp her foot, instead, she spoke in a controlled voice. Come Albert, we’re wasting time.

We’ll meet them soon enough, my dear, but if you think it’s that important, you may go, I’ll not delay you.

You know it wouldn’t be right for me to be on my own. Why don’t you consider my feelings?

The fixed expression on Albert’s face alarmed her. Tight lipped, she turned away and looked towards the sea. The ship glided through the water, the cool wind ruffled her hair.

Albert’s thoughts slipped back to the day he first met the Cameron girls, the daughters of an English lady, Mary Barnett, and Robert Cameron the laird of a branch of the Cameron Clan.

Rosemary’s beauty took him by surprise. Even now, when he thought about that moment, he flushed with embarrassment. He had been aroused in a way he’d never before experienced. He had been in the presence of many beautiful women, but this arousal had never happened before.

Captivated by her strawberry blonde hair, pale blue eyes, translucent complexion, and rounded breasts, she stirred a longing within. Rosemary’s manner was gracious, eyes lowered, voice soft, gentle movements, at all times, the lady. When they courted, Rosemary showed a passion that surprised him, but he liked it. It convinced him that she wanted him as much as he wanted her.

He found her sister Elean easy to get to know. She had unruly chestnut hair, healthy looking skin, and the build of a highland lass. He liked her lively conversation, her wit, the banter and exchange of different views. He enjoyed her frankness. But he much preferred Rosemary because he wouldn’t have liked his wife to be so outspoken.

How was I misled? Rosemary’s warmth and ardent behaviour towards me, led me to believe our first night together would fulfil that passion and longing we had for each other.

He remembered the shock of the first night. Rosemary appeared out of the dressing room, her hair tied up in rags. He expected to see beautiful long blonde hair and a French negligée.

As Rosemary came towards him, Albert tried to hide his disappointment.

It’s all right, Albert. This is how I curl my hair. Surely you didn’t think all those curls I have are real? She climbed into bed, bent over and gave him a kiss, turned her back and snuggled down. The oily film of Goddard’s Lotion smeared on her face shocked him again.

I know this wasn’t how it should be on a first night. I’ve been told what to expect but it can wait. I’m tired and need my sleep.

Albert planned to take a trip to the Lake District, after a short stay in Glasgow. When Rosemary didn’t show enthusiasm, he enquired as to why the idea didn’t appeal to her.

Albert, I’ve lived my life in the country. I want to see the shops, stay in hotels, and do the things I’ve read about. I’m happy to stay in Glasgow.

Albert tried hard not to show his disappointment. He set about making a list of places to visit, the Art Gallery, Museum, parks and the library. Rosemary had no interest at all, she wanted to shop. Albert was led by the hand, like some reluctant puppy while she wove in and out of the crowds.

Albert preferred to wait outside the shops. To pass the time, he observed the people. Happy faces, sad faces, women in rags with painted faces. And the barefoot child carried along by its mother. There were sensible children with sensible parents and even well-dressed children with their nurses. Men in fine suits, cane in hand, brimming over with self-importance. The upper class ladies and gentleman in their finery stepped down from their coaches, expecting everyone to clear the way as they made their grand entrances sweeping into the shops.

At times an assistant appeared, asking Albert to come into the shop, because Rosemary couldn’t make up her mind. He’d find her with bonnets, dresses, scarves or whatever, of every colour, shape and size. Offered a chair, he sat like some judge presiding over the proceedings. Rosemary tried each garment on, asking for his approval. She tried to match up the accessories. Does this match? Is this colour too bold? Does it clash with my complexion? When he liked it, she wasn’t sure, when he didn’t, she still wasn’t sure. Back at the hotel, the whole charade played out again. She insisted she parade her purchases to make sure he was happy. He found he daren’t make the slightest negative remark, for the garment was instantly bundled up and taken back to the store. The whole exercise would be repeated daily. He loved to see her happy, but was saddened to find her so worldly.

Their love life improved, much to Albert’s relief. Each night Rosemary asked. Would you like it to-night dear?

Albert felt their feelings should be mutual. He wanted to tell her that her choice of words sounded so impersonal. She sensed his annoyance. She changed her tack the following night.

Shall we make love to-night dear?

He replied. Do you want to Rosemary?

In return she asked. Do you?

He realized this conversation could go on for the next half hour, so he held out his arms. But he wished it was the spontaneous reaction to their love that he thought it should be.

Within hours of returning to Edinburgh from their wedding journey, Mama-in-law was on the door-step. I’ve already told Frederick he’s to find somewhere else to stay. After all, this is my daughter and there are only fifteen days until she sails. It’s only right that I have every moment with her. I really don’t understand why you stayed away so long. Robert stood helplessly beside his wife. He shrugged his shoulders, glanced at Albert, and raised his eyebrows. Albert wondered if that was what he would be doing in twenty years’ time.

***

The motion of the ship had changed as they left the Clyde. The mainsails, main topsail, jib and flying jib were all hoisted and billowing out in the wind. The ship in full sail ploughed through the open sea. The swaying sensation became stronger. It caused Rosemary to tighten her hold on the rail. Albert didn’t notice. Once more his thoughts turned to Frederick and Elean. A loud penetrating voice cut short his musing.

Whatever are you doing here? We have searched the ship; everyone is assembled in the saloon. The captain wishes to speak to us. He declared he will not start until you arrive.

Albert and Rosemary turned to see an overdressed young woman of average height and full figure, very attractive, with dark flowing hair and dark eyes. Her dress, gaudy with frills, looked more like a ball gown. Not a woman of good taste.

A young gentleman accompanied her. His clothes were well cut, but a little loud in colour and florid in design.

My name is Allyson Morris. This is my husband, John. I’m told you are Rosemary. She flashed a flamboyant smile at Albert. And you must be Albert, the doctor? Immediately, she linked her arm through Rosemary’s and took charge.

Come along, we’re all waiting.

Rosemary, shocked by her use of Christian names, had no time to protest as she found herself dragged along. She had no choice but to walk with this unpleasant woman. She wished she could hold on to Albert, as the movement of the ship made her a little unsteady on her feet.

I’m so glad we will be travelling companions. In a lowered voice Allyson added. Most of the cabin passengers are old, so it will be lovely to have your company. We’ll have such a jolly time.

The two men stood looking at each other, then fell into step, following behind.

Chapter Two

Captain McMaster was a tall man, his uniform immaculate, with hair as neatly combed as his beard. When his eyes twinkled, his facial expression softened. But that twinkle could so easily turn to a cold stare if things were not to his liking. He was known to be one of the finest captains ever to command an immigrant ship. Throughout the journey he proved to be a dominating force, firm but kind, determined and reasonable. All these attributes gained him respect and Rosemary and Albert enjoyed his company.

The steward served refreshments while the captain spoke about his ship’s impeccable record, both practically and morally with harmony between the classes. The immigrants with a free passage to New Zealand were housed in the steerage quarters. They were labourers and servants. The forequarter and main deck consisted of passengers who had partially paid their fare, mostly tradesmen, retailers, and others who had a little bit of money to purchase a piece of land. The cabin passengers considered themselves to be the aristocracy, the professionals, whose behaviour must be impeccable, setting examples in their dress, their manners and code of conduct. They nodded as the captain spoke.

The captain cleared his throat. We have not gained our faultless record without the support of people such as you. I will talk about the role you can play, but first, health issues. It’s of the utmost importance that you exercise. Try to be on deck at least four hours a day. If any of you feel unwell or feverish, apart from the sensation that so many of you will feel while you find your sea legs, you must immediately inform the ship’s surgeon. I can’t stress how important this is. There are remedies that help sickness, which if treated promptly may not spread, but in some cases the passenger may be required to be isolated.

Before he continued, he looked around the passengers to make sure they were all paying attention. His eyes alighted on a woman with an elaborate feathery hat. She nibbled on a sandwich as she whispered to the lady beside her. The captain stared at her. The room became silent. She looked up and almost dropped her cup and saucer. She quickly put it down on the table and gave the captain her full attention.

He cleared his throat again before he continued. Each day mattresses are to be on deck, cabins aired, weather permitting of course. It can be arranged for some of the single women to assist you in your cabins. Please make arrangements with the matron.

Once more his eyes scanned the passengers.

The deck will be scrubbed daily. Please show consideration to the crew when it is being done.

The captain looked over at Albert. Our thanks to Doctor Albert Fortrose who has offered his services to assist the ship’s surgeon if necessary. I can’t express how important it is to keep busy. Otherwise, it leads to idle gossip and disharmony. With the steerage classes we try as much as possible to hold classes teaching new skills, trades and reading. The children will have school lessons. I ask you all to assist in these matters. I will leave you in the capable hands of Mr Cunningham also a fellow passenger. He will work with you to devise a programme that best suits your needs. He turned towards the door. Now, if you would be so kind as to excuse me. I must go to the passengers in the forequarter cabins to enlist their help with keeping the night curfew. Perhaps some of you may wish to offer your services? The morals of our single girls must be guarded. Thank you.

The captain nodded at Mr Cunningham as he left the saloon. Mr Cunningham invited everyone to gather around. He spread on the table a chart, a calendar, of the days they would be at sea.

Allyson Morris waited until the captain was out of hearing then she spoke in a loud voice. Goodness me, he makes a ship sound like a floating den of immorality.

On the contrary, remarked Mr Cunningham. To give you some idea how serious this problem can be, you need to understand we have single men as well as sailors with no contact with the outside world for over three months. One ship arrived at a New Zealand port with all of its single girls pregnant.

This announcement shocked the passengers. They all started talking.

To defend her statement, Allyson said. What else would you expect from the steerage classes?

Mr Cunningham ignored her. The expression on his face was one of instant dislike.

The other passengers gathered around, all speaking at once. Eventually, they sorted out the entertainment. Card parties would be held on wet days, along with backgammon parties. Passengers were encouraged to sign up for a chess challenge. Allyson offered to lead a group reading poetry and plays. Some of the ladies asked for an embroidery group. The Reverend Horton insisted on at least two Bible studies a week. It’s all very fine all this jollity, but we must administer to our spiritual needs as well.

Mr Cunningham cleared his throat. You will have heard from the captain about the importance of keeping busy. I doubt any here can offer trades to the steerage passengers, but one thing we can do is teach them to read.

Teach labourers and servants to read, exclaimed Allyson. Surely this must be a joke. I most strongly object. How will we keep them in their place?

Mrs Morris, replied Mr Cunningham, his face flushing. He took a deep breath to control the anger he felt. One of the first ships called the ‘Whitby’ that came to New Zealand in 1841, their Captain insisted that every passenger who was illiterate had to learn to read. The results were amazing, they were all keen, and found some had extraordinary intelligence. The running of the ship went smoothly as everyone was industriously employed.

We can’t sacrifice our standards for the smooth running of the ship. Mrs Morris spoke, showing the disdain she felt. Think of the consequences, they will not make good servants.

On the contrary they make better, snapped Mr Cunningham.

Well, I for one am deeply disappointed, this goes against everything that’s British.

Rosemary’s dislike of Allyson deepened, triggering her into action. I think it’s a wonderful idea, we are all making new lives for ourselves. We have our dreams, why not the steerage passengers? Why shouldn’t they have the very best start? I’m most happy to offer my services.

Hear, hear, said Ruth and Esther Bell who were moving to a mission station to work with the Maori people. Please put our names down.

Mr Cunningham had five more offers. Mr Burns, an elderly gentleman recently widowed, Mr Wilson, who was obviously a gentleman of means, and Mr and Mrs Melville, who had planned to visit with family in Wellington, and of course, the Reverend Horton.

Allyson gave Rosemary a hostile stare to which Rosemary was oblivious, as she was surrounded by passengers who approved of her action. This added to Rosemary’s excitement which she could hardly contain as she walked back to their cabin clinging onto Albert’s arm. She found the motion of the ship unsettling.

I do like our travelling companions, well, almost, except that Mrs Morris. Have you ever met such a loud opinionated woman? Do you think she is beautiful? She didn’t give Albert time to reply. No, I don’t think so, some may like that look, but I certainly don’t, although I must admit when she smiles her face is reasonable. But she should be more gentle, pleasant, friendly, and not pushy. I notice some of the men kept looking at her. I’m not sure why.

Quite unaware of the irritated look on Albert’s face, she continued. Wasn’t she rude to Mr Cunningham? I like the Cunninghams immensely. I’m sure we’ll get along famously. Mrs Benson, she’s the lady with the unusual hat, all feathers and frills, told me that Mr Cunningham is going to Wellington to be a principal at a very prestigious school. Mrs Benson will be a good friend to Mrs Morris. She thinks only gentry should be allowed to travel in the cabin classes. Rosemary prattled on. Ruth and Esther Bell are delightful, when they hold a conversation one interrupts the other, it’s like having a conversation with one person. Doesn’t the Reverend Horton look fierce? Did you ever see such curly sideburns and bushy eyebrows? He should be part of the policing group. Imagine coming up against him in the half dark. At this point she laughed heartily.

As this discourse was being delivered, they walked along the internal passageway from the saloon. Rosemary had been shocked when she first saw their cabin. Albert, how will we manage? It’s so small.

The cabin compared favourably with the other cabins allotted to the cabin passengers. It was the same size but they only had one bunk. It had a table attached to the wall with two chairs and a cabinet, as well as a wash stand and mirror on the wall. Albert was quick to point out that this was luxury compared with some of the other living quarters on the ship. His eyes widened and he raised his eyebrows. Rosemary knew that look and said no more. When they arrived back at their cabin, they closed the door then sat down one on each side of the table.

It was only then Rosemary noticed Albert’s stern expression. Albert, have I said something wrong?

Did you offer to teach reading because you care about the immigrants, or was it to spite Mrs Morris?

Rosemary’s faced flushed. Well…er…of course…I care.

Albert frowned and shook his head.

Rosemary bit her lip. er…perhaps you’re right.

What on earth am I going to do with you?

Whatever do you mean? Surprise showed in her voice and on her face.

Did it not occur to you to discuss this with me before you offered to teach reading?

Rosemary frowned. What are you saying? That I’m not free to speak for myself.

No, I didn’t say that. I said we should have discussed it first. I would like to have had some input into your decision.

Oh, I see, but you can offer to help the ship’s surgeon without discussing it with me.

Now you’re being ridiculous. I’m a doctor, this is what we do. You are my wife and it’s my duty to look after you.

Rosemary’s eyes flashed. I may be your wife, but I’ll not be treated as a child.

Come Rosemary, you need guidance, you’re too impulsive.

What are you saying? That I don’t think before I act. Well, really, it’s just as well you married me and not Elean. She would have not only offered to take a group, but would’ve arranged that everyone help, including you.

It was now Albert’s time to show surprise. What on earth has Elean got to do with this?

You know you admire her ability to get things done. When I try to be forceful I’m in the wrong.

This is ridiculous. He thumped his fist on the table.

Rosemary responded to his display of disapproval with anger, flashing her eyes at him. Ridiculous? Look at you worrying about her on the wharf. You always had eyes for her, you thought I didn’t notice.

I think, Rosemary, you’ve said enough. Albert’s voice became cold as he stared at his wife in disbelief. I’m going on deck for some air. The chair scraped noisily on the wooden floor as Albert rose to his feet. And while I’m away reflect on this, my concern is about the diseases that are so often present when groups of people live in crowded environments. It’s well documented that whooping cough, cholera, scurvy and diarrhoea can run rampant. It is a risk you take, such conditions can cause death.

He turned from her and stormed out of the cabin. He made his way to the upper deck.

The sea was a little choppy, causing the ship to roll. The only sounds were the thrumming of the sails and the splatter of water as the ship plunged forward creating white foam on the peaks of the waves.

Tears filled Albert’s eyes. The urge to burst into tears he managed to control. He put his arm up and wiped his face on his sleeve. I wish I could shake these feelings off. Frederick, Elean and now Rosemary. But Rosemary is right about one thing, with Elean, I’d be able to reason, but Rosemary only thinks of how it will affect her. He steadied himself by gripping the rail, he looked out at the vast ocean, but his eyes didn’t focus. What will become of us if she keeps harping on about her sister? Yes, I do have feelings for her, but only as a brother-in-law. A huge sigh escaped his lips. It was then he realised that someone was standing beside him.

Doctor, didn’t you hear what I was saying?

Er...hum…I’m sorry, I… He froze when he saw who it was. Mrs Morris flashed him one of her alluring smiles. I’m so glad I’ve caught up with you. I really must talk to you about Rosemary.

Rosemary? Albert responded with a look of indignation in his eyes. Do you mean my wife? Her name is Mrs Fortrose and I would suggest that you…

Alison quickly cut in. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to offend, but I thought we’d be such good friends that…

Your thoughts are incorrect. From what I’ve observed you’re too free with your tongue, you are…

I see I was mistaken. I’ll be a paragon of circumspect in the future. Although it sounded as if she meant it, her eyes showed hostility.

Dr Fortrose, I only want to be of assistance, and for you to know you have my full support. I saw the displeasure on your face when Ros...er…Mrs Fortrose made her offer to teach reading. This nonsense has to be stopped. If we join forces and make our feelings felt, we may be able to put an end to it.

Albert let her ramble on.

There are the Archers…er…I mean Mr and Mrs Archer, and that skinny little man with the thick glasses. I can’t remember his name. And Mr and Mrs Worthington with their unmarried daughter have all expressed their displeasure, and of course Mr and Mrs Benson. I’m sure with your influence we could soon persuade the others that this is utter folly, it’s…

Finally Albert butted in. Mrs Morris, you are quite wrong. I’m proud of my wife. She showed a great understanding for those in lesser circumstances. The reason I wasn’t happy was… Albert stopped speaking. I don’t have to explain my actions to this woman. He cleared his throat. I will also be offering my services, and I would suggest that you…

Mrs Morris turned from him and flounced away.

Albert stared at her disappearing figure. Perhaps I was too harsh. I shouldn’t have taken my frustration out on her. Such a pretentious woman, we’ll not keep company with her.

Albert realised a wind had sprung up. The ship now had a strong rocking motion. The sky ahead was clouding over. I must return to Rosemary. What was I thinking of? I shouldn’t have left her alone for so long.

He returned to their cabin and found Rosemary bent over the table, her hands clasping each side for support. She lifted her head and her face was bright red. Her eyes swollen from crying and she had vomited.

Oh, Albert. Was all she managed to say.

***

The journey was full of surprises for there were many things Rosemary hadn’t thought about. The constant rolling of the ship and the ghastly sea sickness that lasted almost a week. At times squalls confined them to their cabin and the ship’s tacking and lurching made them lose their balance. On brighter days they enjoyed their walks, but there was always that breeze. At the table, plates moved, tea cups shifted. Eventually they adjusted to this new way of living, but it was difficult.

What pleased Albert was that Rosemary didn’t mention her sister’s name again. Each day Rosemary’s gaining her self-confidence. I’m so pleased because everyone seeks her out. Is it because she’s beautiful? I think not. She can now hold her own in a conversation. This will stop the nonsense of comparing herself with her sister.

Everyone enjoyed the programmes set by Mr Cunningham. Rosemary shone in the ladies’ sewing circle. The ladies marvelled at her skill with a needle. Allyson Morris’s reading of plays and poetry were well received, especially her clever skits and humorous items. There had been a change in Allyson, the brash opinionated woman disappeared. Instead, she spoke quietly, thoughtfully, her manner more like a gentle woman. Albert remarked to Mr Cunningham. You’d think she’d taken a leaf out of Rosemary’s book. They both laughed.

But that’s exactly what she had done. She had taken to her gowns, removed all the frills, but she couldn’t tone down the bright colours. With removing the frills it became apparent that the gowns were lower cut than would be considered acceptable. Her dark hair glowed, her dark eyes and pale skin contrasted with the deep colour of her gown. She wasn’t only strikingly beautiful, but a very sensuous woman.

The men never missed a performance, except for Albert and Mr Cunningham who purposely planned a chess challenge for that day.

At each performance the men sat with their eyes glued to her cleavage, just in case she bent forward.

What’s a bawdy house? Rosemary asked Albert one evening.

Goodness me, exclaimed Albert, somewhat surprised that his wife would use such a term. Wherever did you hear that?

I overheard Mr Worthington saying to Mr Benson about Allyson Morris after one of her funny skits, that you’d think she came from a bawdy house.

Albert threw his head back and laughed. Well, well, so much for all her airs and graces.

The women who joined the sewing circle were amazed at Rosemary’s skill with the needle.

The Bible studies were a bore. It wasn’t the content it was the delivery, but everyone suffered them as they didn’t want it to appear that they didn’t respect their Maker.

Albert found a place where Rosemary could teach the girls reading. It was on the main deck, out of the sea breezes. Albert insisted that she was not to sit close to the girls and at no time was she to have physical contact. He arranged the seating, making certain that Rosemary was happy with the arrangement. He then went to the steerage quarters and brought the girls to Rosemary. She held two classes a week, when the weather allowed. There were six girls in each session. They had varying degrees of reading and all were keen on nursemaid positions. It was Rosemary’s task to bring their reading and writing up to a good standard, teach deportment and speaking correctly. While Rosemary was busy with the girls, Albert was just as busy with his group of boys. He wondered if Rosemary had as much fun with her girls as he had with his boys. They were shy at first, but once they recovered they liked to share with Albert their jokes and the happenings in the steerage quarters.

As they moved closer to the Equator, they were able to spend more time on deck, even though the sky was more often cloudy, and squalls were more frequent.

They enjoyed immensely the festivities of crossing the line. Father Neptune, with his scraggly beard, put on quite a show. His voice boomed out instructions as the poor hapless young lads were dunked in water for their imaginary misdeeds. In the end it wasn’t easy to differentiate between the lads and sailors, as they had all joined in the fun.

Oh, Albert, I do declare, that I haven’t laughed so much for ages. Rosemary couldn’t hold in her glee as they returned to their cabin.

Dances were held on Saturday evenings, weather permitting. Instead of the nine o’clock curfew, they were allowed to finish at ten. Each deck arranged a programme that suited them. The music played on the main deck was loud enough to reach each deck. With vigour, Albert and Rosemary joined in. They enjoyed the Scottish reels, tapping their feet and clapping their hands. Of course Allyson Morris shone. She bounced and tapped, with feet flying higher, so much so, a circle of passengers formed around her, with everyone clapping to the music. She gave an exhibition that raised a few eyebrows.

Albert felt relieved that there had been no outbreak of any dreaded diseases. There had been a little diarrhoea at the beginning of the journey in the steerage classes, due to the change from the diet they had eaten at home. No wonder. He expressed his feelings to Rosemary. Their diet on the ship consists of salted beef and mutton in casks with preserved potatoes, preserved milk and watery soup. The captain does his best, where possible, he allows them onions and vegetables. And there is a ration of port each day for the pregnant mothers. In place of bread they have ships biscuit that were baked hard. There’s no rising in these biscuits which they dunk in broth and tea. The captain in his wisdom insisted that they must have an apple every second day. Rosemary, this luxury is not afforded to steerage passengers on other immigrant ships.

Rosemary remembered the delicious smells wafting up to the decks above, as the steerage passengers became more resourceful, adding onions, and anything else they could get their hands on. She couldn’t help thinking of how much better it was to be a cabin passenger who dined at the captain’s table and were guests of the captain and officers. Our dining saloon has two long tables with white starched table cloths, laden with a heavy silver tea service. All is of similar standard to what we have in our own homes. The meals are prepared for us. We dine on fresh meats, vegetables while they last, with milk, eggs, puddings and crusty bread. But we do pay for the service and they travel free.

Rosemary and Albert enjoyed the warmer evenings as they moved down the African coast, they revelled in having more time on deck. After promenading and making sure they spoke to all their travelling companions, they positioned themselves by the rails so they got the best views. They enjoyed the sea’s different moods. The moon’s light spread over the water, if choppy, the colours danced, if a gentle murmur, they shimmered. The lights from the ship as it ploughed through the water cast changing patterns, just as spectacular as the sun sets and the moon rising. This kaleidoscope of colour they shared. At these times their feelings for each other deepened.

Look at the colours Albert. Just think of a gown in soft mauve, it would have puff sleeves, a flowing skirt, perhaps with an overlay of soft silk in slightly lighter tones, a little lace, but not overdone. It would be a gown fit for a ball. For every colour Rosemary designed a gown. I do wish Mama was here. She would have loved the colours, and she’d have much better ideas than me.

Amusement flitted across Albert’s face. He was really impressed with her creations for she turned something so beautiful into something so practical, at the same time creating a beauty of a different kind.

When confined to their cabin, they took the opportunity to write their diaries, and letters home.

Each day they drew nearer to the Cape of Good Hope. They had been warned of what to expect, but the challenge became a reality when the ship’s bell clamoured. The ship’s officers, at the captain’s request, spoke to the passengers on each deck.

There’s a storm brewing and it’s going to be a big one. It’s fast moving, we do not have a lot of time. Make sure to batten down the hatches, close port holes, and leave nothing on the floors. Lift everything up high and make sure everything is tied down. If the littlest thing is left to fly around you’ll find it will cause enormous damage. I suggest you lie in your bunks holding on to the sides. Not to panic, but hurry, we don’t have a lot of time.

The clouds that had been so far away on the horizon were now close, heavy, angry, turning everything before them into darkness. The waves whipped into frenzy. Rosemary and Albert packed everything into their trunk. They lifted it off the floor and placed it on the table.

Quick, Rosemary, get into the bunk, while I make sure everything is closed. I’d like to check on the others, just in case they need help.

Albert returned shortly, much to Rosemary’s relief. He no sooner climbed in beside her when the rocking motion changed. One moment the ship lifted and they saw sky through the port hole, then it crashed down where they could only see water. Each flash of lightning was followed by ear-splitting thunder. Heavy rain thudded against the cabin roof. The howling wind, a hostile force, slapped, crashed, banged as the rain splattered down. Up and down, at times it felt as if the ship was rolling on to its side, only once more to find that the ship had lifted, crashing down